Activist Artists
Activist artists choose to engage with and start a conversation on a variety of topics, from the environment and politics to race, gender and sexuality. A huge element of what makes contemporary art so important is engaging with current world issues; art is an invaluable tool in providing innovative insight and fresh perspectives where words can fail.
The incredible beauty of the natural world is something that artists have represented for centuries. So when it comes under threat by humanity, it's not surprising that ecologically engaged artists such as Jérémy Gobé, Angeles Peña and Franck Seguin use their art to promote its protection.
Gender and sexuality also plays a significant role in artistic activism. Belgian photographer Charlotte Abramow's stunning shots explore gender identity, feminism and female sexuality. Meanwhile, American non-binary artist Ryan Wilks' drawings confront the difficult relationship between sexual orientation and religion.
The world of politics is also ever present in contemporary art, with political artists exploring humanitarian issues and our societal values. World famous street artists Banksy and Shepard Fairey both explore a range of political subjects, from war crime to the disadvantages of consumerism.
Expand your horizons and discover Artsper's curated selection of activist artists!
Shepard Fairey (Obey)
JR
Retour à la Caverne - Acte I, 12 septembre 2023, 20h40, Palais Garnier, Paris, France, 2023
JR
Print - 27.6 x 39.4 inch
$1,358
Migrants, Mayra, Picnic Across The Border. Tecate, Mexico–USA (2017)
JR
Design - 7.9 x 31.5 x 0.4 inch
$674
Retour à la Caverne - Acte I, 7 septembre 2023, 06h52, Palais Garnier, Paris, France, 2023
JR
Print - 27.6 x 39.4 inch
$1,358
Cleon Peterson
Enfant Précoce / Francis Essoua Kalu
Bledard! Je suis nouveau à l'ecole
Enfant Précoce / Francis Essoua Kalu
Painting - 51.2 x 35 x 0.8 inch
$10,189
Karine Giboulo
Charlotte Abramow
Tracey Emin
Banksy
Chéri Samba
Thomas Dellert
F the President... I did (Election 2020 Poster 1)
Thomas Dellert
Print - 27.6 x 59.1 x 0.4 inch
$4,755
Growing up with Coca Cola. after a work by James Rosenquist
Thomas Dellert
Print - 27.6 x 39.4 x 0.4 inch
$4,755
Zhao De-Wei
Still Life Series - Watermelon Peel Inserted In A Cup
Zhao De-Wei
Painting - 19.7 x 23.6 x 1.6 inch
$3,962