Art Matters more than Ever

Art Matters more than ever as we head into 2025

Art has always been humanity’s way of responding to the uncontrollable, a beacon of hope and resilience in turbulent times. In the face of global challenges such as environmental crises, political instability, and social upheavals, art remains a sanctuary and a call to action. The early 20th century offers profound lessons: amid the devastation of World War I, new movements emerged. Artists were challenging traditional notions, and reflecting the absurdities of war and also the pain of their personal experiences. Egon Schiele was active during World War I, and the war significantly impacted his life and work.  Drafted into military service in 1915, Schiele’s output slowed, but he continued to create poignant works. His art during this period, including haunting self-portraits reflected his deepening awareness of mortality and suffering. Tragically, Schiele died in 1918, of Spanish flu which swept through Europe during the war. Schiele’s works stand as a testament to the fragility and resilience of the human spirit during one of history’s darkest chapters. His art continues to inspire and provoke, bridging the gap between beauty and turmoil.

(featured image – Egon Schiele, ‘Death & the Maiden’ 1915).

Protest against the violence

On April 26, a squadron of Nazi warplanes carpet-bombed the Basque market town of Guernica, largely destroying it and killing many civilians. This was at the request of the Spanish Nationalists under the command of General Franco during the Spanish Civil War.

Picasso created “Guernica” as an act of protest against the violence of war and as a call for peace. The work is a silent but powerful cry against the inhumane brutality of the Spanish Civil War and, by extension, all wars. “Guernica” is a work of art that exudes pain and desolation. Picasso used distorted shapes, dark colours, and a visual language to depict the unspeakable horror experienced by the inhabitants of Guernica. The distorted faces and torn bodies symbolise universal human suffering.

A Beacon of Hope

Today, as we navigate unprecedented challenges, art provides perspective, solace, and inspiration. It connects us, transcending borders and ideologies, reminding us of shared humanity. It give us a beacon of hope in the darkness.

As we step into a new year, the role of art is not just to document but to envision better futures. Through creativity, we find ways to heal, collaborate, and dream. Let us embrace this transformative power of art to imagine and build a world rooted in hope and renewal.

I wish you a Happy and Peaceful Christmas from Life: Full Colour

Sara McKee FRSA, the Pink-Haired Art Dealer