A Change of Art

Art has the power to change how people see the world. Inspire your class to harness this power by using artivism, the intersection of art and activism, to create tangible change in their community.

To start, ask your class to focus on one change they would like to make in their community or school. Remember that the more specific the message or action is, the easier it will be to communicate.

After your class has agreed on what issue they would like to focus on, it’s time to create a performance that addresses it! Prompt each student to create a piece of art that represents the change they would like to see—this may be a song, skit, dance or drawing. Give your class ample time to work on their section individually or collaborate in small groups.

Then, combine every student’s act into a variety show with your activist goal being the theme that connects them all. As the classroom teacher, act as emcee and introduce each student’s act. When it’s ready, invite your school’s administration or community leaders to the show so that they can hear your message! For more information on artivism, visit the Speak Up, Act Out: Artivism in Action School Tool Resource Guide in the New Victory Arts Education Resource Library.

To support this unit, use the It’s Time to Change Creativity Page.