Mission Statement

A4CT (Artivism for Critical Thinking) is an online platform that unites artists from around the world to examine how art serves as a critical lens on contemporary issues and a powerful tool for activism and self-expression. Dedicated to fostering cross-cultural dialogue, A4CT supports artists whose work challenges societal norms, addresses pressing issues, and inspires action for social change and cultural disruption. By connecting communities and celebrating diverse forms of artistic expression, we create a shared space to confront complex social, political, and cultural dynamics, while promoting understanding, dialogue, and collective growth.



Outside the online sphere, A4CT hopes to exist as a borderless space for intercultural and transformative dialogue(s) that can take many forms. Physically situated in the growing city of Helsinki, we understand the need for a common space where those with a mutual interest in sharing, listening, and reflecting can gather—a place with the capacity for compassion for unheard (and often silenced) voices, perspectives, and each other.

Manifesto

A4CT is founded on the belief that contemporary artists are essential witnesses and critics of the transformative forces shaping the 21st century. Their works hold the capacity to challenge societal norms, provoke dialogue, and inspire action by offering critical perspectives on the social, political, economic, and power dynamics of our times. By embracing multiple (hi)stories and sensibilities, they deepen our understanding of our precarious world and encourage us to reflect on our shared humanity. 
We acknowledge that collective change is necessary to move forward, which requires opposing individualistic paradigms by embracing communal action.

Our platform showcases artists from around the globe, ranging from established names to emerging voices working across a wide spectrum of mediums. These works serve as bridges for meaningful conversations, fostering critical thinking and empathy while challenging assumptions and stereotypes.



A4CT is not confined to the digital sphere. While we leverage online tools to break down geographic and socioeconomic barriers, we also aim to create physical spaces for connection, dialogue, and collaboration. Based in Helsinki, we plan to host events and initiatives that bring artivism to life, creating shared spaces where communities can come together to exchange ideas and tackle pressing global issues.

In an era marked by polarization, fear, and misinformation, A4CT calls for a reexamination of how we connect, understand, and act. We believe artivism is a powerful guide, navigating the complexities of our time while fostering engagement and transformative change rooted in equity and shared humanity. By creating spaces—both digital and physical—where art exists as a tool for dialogue and action, A4CT strives to empower artists, inspire audiences, and build a future shaped by creativity, empathy, collaboration, and collective care.

Artivism

Artivism, a term combining art and activism, refers to the use of artistic expression as a tool for social and political change. It goes beyond the idea of 'art for art’s sake' aiming to provoke action, raise awareness, and challenge societal issues. The term 'artivism' is rooted in the concept of activist art, with Lucy Lippard being one of the earliest critics to use the term 'activist' to describe works of art. She identified the 1980s as a pivotal moment when activist art "came into its own”. Lippard distinguished activist art from political art, explaining that while political art provides "commentary or analysis" and may exist at a distance from its audience, activist art is "socially involved”, working closely with its audience to inspire connection and action. Although these distinctions can overlap, both forms of art share a commitment to collective engagement and social change.*

It is important to note that the understanding of this artistic practices labeled today as 'artivism', 'activist art', or 'art activism' have been predominantly shaped and disseminated through a Western lens. However, as Castellano highlights, creative practices with activist intentions and socially engaged art have existed in many parts of the world long before the concept of 'activist art' was formally introduced.*

On this platform, we understand that the practice of activist art/artivism, can vary based on individual circumstances. For some, it might involve bold public actions, while for others, it could mean quieter acts of resistance or creating safe spaces for dialogue and expression. Here we aim to support these diverse approaches, especially in a world where freedom of speech is often under threat, and artists and activists face challenges like censorship, punishment, or even violence for speaking out. 


We also recognize the many limitations and restrictions of platforms like Instagram, alongside the unique opportunities it offers to connect with global audiences. By navigating these boundaries, we aim to showcase various forms of activist art/artivism, bridge language barriers, and help people engage with and better understand the complex issues that shape our world through creative acts.

*References: 

- "The Routledge Companion to Art and Activism in the Twenty-First Century", edited by Lesley Shipley and Mey-Yen Moriuchi.

- "Activist Art in Anticolonial Futures" by Carlos Garrido Castellano, SUNY Press.

Collaborate

If your work aligns with the principles of artivism, we invite you to share it with us on our Instagram platform. Tag @artivism4ct in your posts or stories, or send your content via direct message or email at artivism4ct (at) gmail.com. Submissions will be shared as long as they follow these guidelines:

▫ While activist art may challenge the status quo, it should not promote hate, violence, or discrimination against any group.

▫ Foster an environment where differing viewpoints can be shared respectfully. Discussions should focus on ideas rather than personal attacks.

▫ Consider the context in which the art is shared. Be aware of current events or local sensitivities that might affect how the work is received.

▫ Acknowledge your personal biases and privileges, so we can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive environment.

A4CT invites artists of all levels—from those just starting out to those with years of experience—to contribute. Whether your work is new, in progress, or something created long ago, all art that resonates with artivism's spirit is welcome. This platform welcomes everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ability, economic status, or any other diverse background.