"All I can think to do is paint the problems
and the solutions people can work on together.
I think it's time to combine both parts of who I am:
to take ACTION with my ART.
It's time to become an ARTIVIST."
Nikkolas Smith is as remarkable an artist as he is an activist, wanting more for the world than is currently happening. Combining the two, he speaks to children and adults around the world, hoping to inspire change at a grassroots level. He wants those who hear him speak and see his art to know that they can be agents of change in whatever small way they choose.
The young boy who narrates this wonderful book is an artist. He is also an activist, sewing seeds of goodness in his community. What he sees too often are scenes that make him want to scream. And help. And be an agent for change. He wants to hold up a mirror to show the world what isn't right: racism, war, waste, pollution, global warming, inequality, injustice, hate, us vs. them, greed, death, walls.
He knows that his art can help him take action that needs to be taken; it can have an impact. He can show what is broken and what leads to healing. He's ready to get started. The first thing he does is change an eviction notice that says MOVE TODAY to LOVE TODAY - a simple message that goes viral and sparks action.
A mural painted on a building's wall inspires people to look beyond their own lives and begin to make a difference in the lives of others, showing empathy and kindness in donations and by joining protests that demand change. Posters beg the government to bring change:
MY LIFE IS WORTH MORE THAN ALL THE GUNS.
PROTECT KIDS, NOT GUNS!
NO MORE SILENCE/END GUN VIOLENCE
The artivist acts on behalf of others, speaking, acting as ally, protecting the planet and its children. There is much to be done, and many ways to do it. Readers are drawn to the story told as a reaction to the concern shown at every turn of the page. The art is remarkable in its use of color, scope, and powerful images. Compassion is at the heart of it, and assures opportunities for open and meaningful discussion.
“The Artivist is you.
What change will you create?”
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