In a powerful call to action, Misan Harriman, the chair of the Southbank Centre and renowned photographer, has urged artists to step beyond mere entertainment and engage deeply with the pressing issues of our time. His remarks come as he participates in the Together For Palestine auction, aiming to raise funds for humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. With an impressive roster of artists joining him, Harriman emphasises the role of art in fostering understanding and bridging divides.
Artists as Catalysts for Change
Harriman, who made history as the first Black man to photograph a cover for British Vogue, has long been a vocal advocate for using art as a means of social commentary. His participation in the Together For Palestine auction, alongside notable figures such as Grayson Perry and Es Devlin, reflects his commitment to channeling creativity into activism. “Art at its very best isn’t purely educational or entertaining,” Harriman stated. “It’s something that nourishes the soul.”
The auction, which runs from 27 March to 9 April, features works intended not just for display but as instruments of change. The funds raised will support humanitarian organisations actively providing frontline relief in Palestine, a cause Harriman feels passionately about. His own contribution, a poignant piece titled *Brothers in Protest*, captures a moment of solidarity between a Muslim man and a Jewish man advocating for peace on the London embankment. “This image is one of the most important I’ve ever taken,” he remarked, highlighting its emotional impact on viewers from both communities.
The Role of Art in a Divisive World
In a time when divisive rhetoric permeates social media platforms, Harriman insists that art can serve as a vital counterbalance to negativity. He lamented the toxic environment cultivated by platforms like X (formerly Twitter), which he described as “algorithmically designed to make you angry.” Instead, he advocates for the “original human algorithm,” which involves engaging with art in physical spaces like galleries and museums, allowing individuals to explore their feelings in a nuanced manner.
Drawing from the wisdom of Nina Simone, Harriman reiterated that artists have a responsibility to reflect the world around them. “You can either be an artist or an entertainer,” he asserted. “I have no interest in entertaining.” His focus is on fostering connections and understanding through his art, something he believes is crucial for mental health and societal well-being in these uncertain times.
A Defiance Against Artistic Apathy
Harriman’s sentiments stand in stark contrast to the views expressed by Wim Wenders, the Berlin Film Festival jury president, who suggested that filmmakers should distance themselves from politics. Harriman firmly disagrees, labelling Wenders’ perspective as fundamentally flawed. “That’s an oxymoronic statement,” he retorted, recalling how he first learned about the implications of fascism through the seemingly innocuous musical *The Sound of Music*.
He pointed out that even light-hearted art can carry profound political messages. “To be an artist is to reflect the times we live in,” he stated. “If you’re not willing to speak about it at the most political time in most of our lives, then don’t expect to be recognised for your art as political.” This insistence on accountability underscores the importance of artists engaging with contemporary issues rather than shying away from them.
The Call to Action
As the Together For Palestine auction approaches, Harriman’s message resonates not just within the artistic community but extends to all individuals. He encourages everyone to utilise their unique skills and platforms—whether through a camera, paintbrush, or even a simple conversation—to foster unity and understanding. “We all have something that we can do,” he advised. “It’s about trying to do that in tandem.”
His invitation serves as a reminder that activism can manifest in various forms, urging society to challenge apathy and engage with the pressing crises of our time.
Why it Matters
Harriman’s insistence on the role of artists as agents of change is both timely and vital. In a world increasingly fragmented by conflict and misinformation, the arts can offer a powerful means to foster dialogue and empathy. By advocating for a more engaged artistic practice, Harriman not only challenges his peers but also inspires individuals from all walks of life to contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society. In such turbulent times, the call for reflection, connection, and action has never been more essential.
