I see so many activists... who are artists because they feel that

Host: The room feels contemplative, as if the conversation is about to explore the intersection of art, activism, and communication. The soft evening light creates a peaceful atmosphere, and outside, the world continues its usual rhythm, but inside, the air feels alive with the idea of how art can be used as a tool for change. Jeeny sits at the table, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her cup, her expression thoughtful. Jack stands near the window, arms crossed, watching the street below.

Jeeny: (her voice gentle, yet filled with curiosity) “You ever think about how art isn’t just something we create for beauty or entertainment? How it can be a powerful form of communication, especially when used to make a statement or spark change?”

Jack: (glancing over at her, his voice dry, but intrigued) “Art as communication? Yeah, it’s funny how art can be more than just what we see on a canvas or a stage. It can be a way of expressing ideas, feelings, or movements that go beyond the surface. What made you think about it?”

Jeeny: (nodding slowly, a small smile forming as she shares her thought) “I was thinking about something Yoko Ono said: ‘I see so many activists… who are artists because they feel that they have the power of communication.’ It made me reflect on how activism and art can go hand in hand—how artists, especially those who are passionate about change, often use their work as a way to communicate messages and inspire others.”

Jack: (pauses, considering her words carefully) “So, she’s saying that for many activists, being an artist isn’t just about creating—it’s about using art as a tool for communication? That their art is a way of conveying messages or starting conversations that push for change?”

Jeeny: (smiling more deeply now, her eyes steady as she explains further) “Exactly. Ono’s point is that art has the power to reach people in a way that words or actions alone can’t always do. It’s about using creativity to communicate ideas, provoke thought, and challenge the status quo. Art becomes a form of activism, a way to express the values and beliefs that fuel social movements.”

Host: Jeeny’s words seem to settle in the room, creating a subtle shift in the conversation about the role of art in activism. Jack stands still, his expression softening as he processes the deeper message behind Ono’s statement. The world outside continues its rhythm, but inside, the conversation feels rooted in a more profound understanding of how art can be used as a medium for change.

Jack: (his voice quieter now, almost reflective) “I see what she means. Art is more than just self-expression—it can be a way to influence others, to communicate things that are hard to put into words, or to push for something different. When artists channel their activism through their art, they tap into something powerful.”

Jeeny: (nodding slowly, her voice calm, yet filled with quiet strength) “Exactly. Art isn’t just something to admire—it’s a platform for communication, a way to amplify voices, challenge perspectives, and change minds. It’s an act of expression that goes beyond personal experience—it becomes a collective message.”

Jack: (pauses, a small smile forming on his face as the idea sinks in) “It’s liberating, isn’t it? To realize that art isn’t just about beauty or aesthetics—it’s a tool, a form of activism that can speak louder than words. It’s a powerful way for individuals to create a shared conversation and spark change.”

Jeeny: (smiling warmly, her voice gentle, yet filled with wisdom) “Exactly. When art is used for a cause, it transcends individual expression. It becomes a voice for change, for connection, and for action. The power of communication through art is something that can inspire people and move them toward progress.”

Host: The room feels lighter now, as though the conversation has shifted into a deeper understanding of the role of art in activism. Jack turns from the window, his posture more relaxed, his thoughts clearly reflecting on the power of art as a medium for change. Jeeny watches him, content in the realization that art is not just for personal expression—it’s a tool for communication, for activism, and for making a difference. The world outside continues its rhythm, but inside, there’s a shared understanding that art has the power to inspire, provoke, and ignite change.