Art and Occupy Wall Street

Michele Elam explains:

Occupy art might just be the movement's most politically potent tool in its dramatic reframing of the racial dynamics of a populist uprising frequently characterized as largely white and "hippie." [Shepard] Fairey's "You Are Invited" is an especially compelling example. It offers an image of a young black woman with turtleneck sweater and iconic Afro, a la Angela Davis -- the "uniform" of the Black Panther Party of the 1960s and '70s. The poster's retro look recalls a militant past, almost startling in our new millennial moment, and surely is meant as a challenge to the idea that as a society we are anywhere near "post-race" enlightenment.

Also, while we're on the topic of Occupy, you may be interested to read this interview, between Joshua Cohen and Seth Resler, at the website of the Boston Review. An interesting read, but certainly not essential. This, however, is excellent and certainly worth your time.