Navigating the art world as an artist who has many conservative views has proven to be a journey fraught with challenges. Conservative artists really stand out as minority voices in a predominantly liberal landscape. It's disheartening to witness how a significant portion of the liberal base within the art community can harbor animosity simply because my viewpoint diverges from theirs. I find it all to be extremely hypocritical because the very purpose of art is to allow all voices and viewpoints to be seen and celebrated. Art has long been celebrated as a platform for diverse perspectives, yet the reality for a conservative artist is often one of subtle alienation.
(©Michel Keck - Jeremiah 33:3 - original abstract art scripture painting)
Expressing ideas that deviate from the mainstream narrative invites scrutiny and, at times, outright disdain. The supposed open-mindedness of the art world seems to waver when confronted with conservative values. Despite the hurdles, however, I remain committed to my craft and the belief that art should encompass a spectrum of ideas, fostering a true exchange of perspectives rather than conforming to a single ideological lens. The journey may be challenging, but it is essential to continue contributing to the rich tapestry of art with a diverse range of thoughts and expressions.
©Michel Keck - Psalm 17: 6-8 original abstract scripture painting
The supposed open-mindedness that the art world prides itself on appears to falter when confronted with conservative values, leaving conservative artist's to face both and not so subtle alienation; especially in regard to their standing on social media platforms.
In the digital age, social media platforms have become powerful conduits for political discourse, shaping and reflecting public opinion. The influence of these platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, on political narratives has sparked debates over potential biases. A prevailing argument suggests that these platforms tend to be more favorable to Democratic policies, raising concerns about the impact on the democratic process itself.
©Michel Keck - Abstract Cross Art Print
Critics argue that the algorithms and content moderation policies employed by these social media giants can inadvertently favor certain political ideologies. The perception of liberal bias often centers on issues related to content moderation, where conservative voices have claimed that their views are disproportionately censored or suppressed. This has led to concerns about the platforms inadvertently shaping the digital public square in a way that aligns more closely with Democratic perspectives.
©Michel Keck - #061505 Ethereal Abstract Art Cross Print
Facebook, as one of the largest social media platforms globally, has faced scrutiny over its handling of political content. The company's role in disseminating information and its influence on user engagement have raised questions about the impact on political discourse. Similarly, Instagram, owned by Facebook, and TikTok have been accused of showcasing content that leans towards liberal viewpoints, contributing to the narrative that these platforms are more favorable to Democratic policies.
©Michel Keck - #082002 Original Abstract Painting Proverbs 3:5 Scripture
Conservative artists who dare to exercise their right to free speech and share any of their political opinions online, especially if they are a Donald Trump supporter, have undoubtedly found that 'shadow banning' is indeed a very real thing, not some hyped up 'conspiracy theory' by right wing loonies.
The art world should be an environment where diverse perspectives are not only tolerated but welcomed, but that is very often not the case. As a conservative artist, I remain committed to my craft, driven by the belief that art should be a melting pot of ideas, facilitating a genuine exchange of perspectives. Despite the hurdles, it is imperative to contribute to the rich mosaic of art with a diverse range of thoughts and expressions, challenging the notion that art should conform to a single ideological lens.
©Michel Keck - #021604 Proverbs 29:25 Scripture Art Print
My art journey, especially in regards to sharing my Christian based, scripture and cross art paintings, though arduous, serves as a testament to the resilience needed to champion artistic diversity. It underscores the importance of cultivating an inclusive space within the art world, where differing viewpoints can coexist harmoniously. As I persevere in the face of adversity, the hope is not merely to survive but to thrive, catalyzing a shift towards a more open and accepting art community that truly embraces the myriad of voices that contribute to its vibrancy.
Comments
What a great post!!! I’ve been a fan since your original eBay days and have two of your pieces. I too am a conservative leaning artist. I learned early on (during Trumps first run and first months in office) to just STFU, even when I was having what I thought was a civil exchange of ideas and opinions. I can’t tell you how many artist ‘friends’ unfriended, unfollowed, and downright verbally abused me in PM’s. I don’t need the abuse and negativity so I keep my politics to myself and do what I love, paint.
I love your tenacity, it comes out in your art. You have such a wide audience and your voice needs to be heard….it’s true! Artists are supposed to be free thinkers. How can you be a free thinker when you’re marching in lockstep with the establishment? When I heard how Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day was stumping for Biden, I thought ‘Wow, so much for that rage against the machine energy!’ SmmmhhhhKeep doing what you’re doing. You’re unique in so many ways. Power on sister.
A South Louisiana fan!
Thank you Kristi! I appreciate that and I am so glad that you have moved into the area and that we have gotten to know each other. I really do believe that I am here to share God’s message through my art. I have many styles.. but I just never stray from my scripture works.. I am always called to somehow intertwining my works with scripture and the battle of good and evil. - not a popular thing to do in the world we are living in today… but I am hard to silence. :)
Hi Kathryn! Thank you for your support of my art for so long (two decades.. it doesn’t seem possible!!!) I have received more hate mail over my scripture and cross art than anyone would ever believe. It is disheartening but speaks volumes about the society we are living in today. I am a live and let live kinda girl so it would never cross my mind to waste my time or energy to send hateful words to someone simply because they don’t have the same religious or spiritual views I do. It is all insane to me.. I’m sorry you have seen it to. I just won’t be silenced. The art world is not one that is loving or supportive of anyone that does not have the exact same views of the art world which is in my opinion hard left. Agreed we are suppose to be FREE THINKERS, against the establishment and SUPPORTIVE of everyone no matter what their views… that is not the art world today. I pay for it.. but I don’t care ;) - I’ll just keep on doing my thing. :) – best wishes to you!