Aeffect: The Affect and Effect of Artistic Activism

The first book to seriously identify how artistic activism works and how to make it work better. Æffect draws on Stephen Duncombe's more than twenty-five years of experience in the field and one hundred in-depth interviews with artistic activists worldwide to address these questions. It is grounded in three sets of concerns: change, intention, and evaluation, and includes examples of successful artistic activism, such as Undocubus, Journal Rappé, and War on Smog. Scannable QR codes are included to provide tools that help readers assess the æffect of their artistic activism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2024
Publisher: Fordham University Press

The past decade has witnessed a remarkable surge in the fusion of "artistic activism," where artists leverage their creative talents to make a significant social impact, and activists incorporate artistic techniques and perspectives to enhance the effectiveness of their interventions. However, crucial questions persist regarding the efficacy of artistic activism: Does it resonate aesthetically? Does it yield political results? And what precisely constitutes "working" when art and activism are intertwined? In his groundbreaking book, Æffect, author Stephen Duncombe delves into these profound inquiries at the core of the field of artistic activism. Drawing upon his extensive experience of over twenty-five years in the field and one hundred in-depth interviews with artistic activists across the globe, Æffect offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the theory, research, and tools necessary for artistic activists to evaluate and strengthen their practice, ultimately leading to the creation of more impactful projects.

The foundation of this exploration lies in three central concerns:

1. Change: Æffect examines the underlying theories of change upon which artistic activism is built. By exploring these theories, artistic activists can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which their work can drive positive change.

2. Intention: The book delves into the aspirations and expectations that underpin artistic activism. It explores how artistic activism aims to achieve its goals and the mechanisms through which it influences public opinion and policy.

3. Evaluation: Æffect emphasizes the importance of assessing the outcomes of artistic activist interventions. It examines the measurable impact of artistic activism and explores the methodologies and tools available for measuring and evaluating its effectiveness.

Throughout the book, Æffect showcases a wealth of successful examples of artistic activism, providing valuable insights and lessons for practitioners in the field. These examples include the iconic "Undocubus," an old bus painted with the slogan "No Fear" and driven cross-country by a group of undocumented immigrant activists, who used art as a powerful tool to raise awareness about their rights and advocate for change. Another notable example is "Journal Rappé," a video show created by Senegalese rappers who use long-form lyrics to address social issues and promote political awareness.

By examining these successful examples and the underlying principles of artistic activism, Æffect offers a comprehensive guide for artists and activists seeking to harness the power of art to drive social change. The book provides valuable theoretical frameworks, practical tools, and inspiring anecdotes that empower individuals and communities to use art as a catalyst for positive transformation. Whether you are an artist, activist, or simply someone interested in the intersection of art and social justice, Æffect is a must-read for anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781531506506