Illuminating Hope and Possibility: Art as a Beacon of Change

I go where the art is because art is where life lives. This past Saturday, May 17th, I went on a quest to find the newly installed Liberty statue in the Aurora Highlands neighborhood of Aurora, CO. With my best friend joining me and navigating as I drove, we went to the art for a new sense of aliveness. At 58 ft, Liberty is the second tallest among Denver’s more famous statues (the tallest at 60 ft being Dancers at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts) and she’s a beauty – glimmering in the sunlight. At once majestic, Liberty completely embodies a swirling motion with every curve sublimely radiating from its edges. Created by Belgian contemporary sculptor Michael Benisty, Liberty, a work of art that was crafted from mirrored polished stainless steel, soars high enough to match the expansive Colorado sky backdrop. With a towering presence and radiant aura, Liberty symbolizes what vast possibilities could lie ahead. It reminds us that we are capable of achieving greatness, but we must remain steadfast in our pursuits. In the presence of this gift of art, shaping life forces in so many dynamic ways, I’m reminded of all that is still possible – all that can be and, yes, that the hard work must continue.

Earlier in the week, I came across a cartoon of Ronald McDonald transformed (hmmmmm…or exposed…or reminding us of…) a similarly dressed caricature of our current chief in leadership renamed Mc-Felon. Like the Liberty statue, there was so much being said through this simple, yet complex cartoon. As I studied this cartoon, I found myself reflecting on the graduation speech I gave to CU Boulder’s class of 2025 and guests who were present to celebrate them. I reminded them, “We are in times of dreams deferred, uncertainty, and a reshaping of our surrounding landscapes. Yet, at the same time, we are in times of dreams amplified, milestones, and fierce builders for expanding the sense of belonging.” The hard work must continue – and it is continuing…because ART is still boldly being made and shaping paths for considering options and different futures.

My current movement meditation calls us to recite "we can do more together than we can do apart." Individually we may have complex identities and lives that include brokenness and yet we are together. We must be together in the change that can lead to a better world for the generations to come after us.

Art acts as a beacon, highlighting the possibilities that lie ahead. It transcends boundaries and connects us to our shared humanity. The Liberty statue serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength that art brings into our lives. It inspires us to strive for greatness, to believe in the impossible, and to work diligently towards a brighter future. The Ronald McDonald/Mc-Felon cartoon further exemplifies the transformative power of art. It challenges our perceptions, provokes thought, and encourages dialogue. Art has the unique ability to address societal issues and foster a sense of unity and collective responsibility. It prompts us to reflect on our actions, our beliefs, and our roles in shaping the world around us.

As I think back again to my graduation speech at CU Boulder when I emphasized the importance of perseverance and dedication when the path to progress becomes arduous. I also wanted to instill the idea that the presence of art assures us that our efforts are not in vain. Art is a testament to human resilience and creativity, showing us that change is possible and within our reach. The journey towards a better tomorrow requires collaboration, empathy, and unwavering commitment.

As I write this, I find myself at the precipice of significant life changes. And while navigating it all, I will continue to do the hard work because I remain anchored in hope and a firm belief in greater humanity. Among my upcoming activities are Weaving Experiences, Expanding Possibilities: A Change Makers Convening in Lafayette, CO and a Green Box residency that will center a two-week community engagement process in Colorado Springs, CO in fall/winter 2025.

As we navigate our individual lives and confront our personal challenges, it is essential to remember the collective power we hold. Together, we can overcome obstacles, create meaningful change, and build a future that reflects our shared aspirations. Art serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path forward and inspiring us to dream big. It continues to motivate me to lean into the life practice of The Conversation Series: Stitching the Geopolitical Quilt to Re-Body Belonging.

Art is a profound source of hope and possibility. It enriches our lives, challenges our perspectives, and fosters a sense of unity. The Liberty statue and the impactful Ronald McDonald cartoon are testaments to the transformative power of art. As we continue to strive for progress, let us remember that art is a vital component of our journey. It is a reminder that we must persist, collaborate, and believe in the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

I conclude this blogpost with one of my favorite quotes from Dr. Martin L. King Jr.: “We need leaders not in love with money but in love with justice. Not in love with publicity but in love with humanity.”