Posts in Cultural Commentary

2014 Old Vic Theatre production of Arthur Miller’s "The Crucible"

When Artists Stay Silent, Power Speaks Louder

Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” serves as an allegory for McCarthyism, spotlighting the courage of individuals who confront corrupt power.[…]

David Hammons "In the Hood" (1993) , cover art for Claudia Rankine’s book "Citizen: An American Lyric" (2014)

In a Divided World, the Arts Offer Choices

David Hammons’ “In the Hood” (1993) provided the cover art for Claudia Rankine’s 2014 book: “Citizen: An[…]

Japanese Kintsugi

Can the Arts Offer a Kinder Way to Belong?

Centuries ago, Japanese artisans began mending broken vessels with lacquer and gold. This tradition – called kintsugi (“golden seams”)[…]