Autonomy, Activism and Art Direction

A NOTE FROM RICHIE MANU. Autonomy, activism and art direction are all very pertinent domains in their own right. Yet in this space, the intersection and relationship of the three elements brought together in this publication offer refreshing, dynamic cultural perspectives that bring new light and insights within the contexts of race, gender, identity and socio-economics. This publication does not just serve to provide definitions but to instead explore the often feral, yet dignified accounts and vantage points from creatives of colour within the frameworks of each key term.

In this arresting, thought-provoking, unapologetic collection of essays, the authenticity of the contributors provide an often immersive read that transforms you into the space, time and mindset of the writers. And while the punctuation of visuals, photography, art and creativity provide context and visual stimuli, we must be reminded that the presence and dominance of the written word remains the anchor for discourse around the paradigms of autonomy, activism and art direction. The contributors are truly a community of practice, but also evidently a community of action and more importantly – reaction. None of the pieces here are designed or written to be passive creations. In fact quite the opposite. They are the catalyst and continuation for discourse, action, discussion and reflection that foster empathy, contemplation and deeper meaning within the words and images. The contributors are all congruent with the themes of the book and bring an element of unity through their individual voices.

To set the context, this publication is preceded with some key data that makes for uneasy reading. And rightly so. This is the harsh reality of a landscape that by definition presents issues of imbalance of representation, lack of diversity, injustice and ignorance. However, this data must not be received in a negative light, but conversely to act as impetus and stimulus for change.

Real change.

Meaningful change.

Positive change.

While the data presented is numeric and statistical, the following narratives, stories and essays unearth the qualitative prose and authenticity that is so often missing from the percentages.

Key Questions are punctuated throughout the publication and provide a unique opportunity to gain perspectives from the various contributors. The interviews are not just revealing but also demonstrate and celebrate the knowledge, expertise and cultural nous that the writers possess. Throughout the publication, we have a unique opportunity to glean very different perspectives from contributors from the same gamut of questions.

It is a wonderful opportunity to gain different insights on the same lines of enquiry.

The essays in this publication meander elegantly through the themes of autonomy, activism AUTONOMY, ACTIVISM & ART DIRECTION. // 17