Orange you scared of Trump? This is based off a comment someone told me this morning. They noticed that Trump looks like an orange. And they thought it was funny. So I thought it would make a clever comic. I told them my idea for the comic and they didn't get it. Huh? Why is that funny? Orange you scared? I don't understand why you put those words together. And I had to explain that the word orange sounds like the word aren't. So maybe it's not that great of joke after all. It's not as fun when you have to explain it. Anyway, I was inspired to make the comic and I had fun drawing it. As an artist, it always feels good to follow through with inspiration. The results might not always be perfect. In terms of making comics, the comics don't always have to be the best jokes in the world. I'm not always trying to be funny, after all. There are other things you can do in a comic besides just being funny or telling a joke. I think calling attention to things is one of the most powerful things you can do as an artist. At a very high level of artistry, sometimes you can change someone's perception. But changing people's minds is not necessarily the goal. To me, it's probably better if that isn't the goal. Since odds are slim that you will change people's minds. Instead, aim a little lower and artists can hit the mark every time. So the art isn't about influence, but simply a catalyst for discussion. This way, artists' opinions don't have to be right or wrong. Instead of trying to influence, an artist can be liberated by just putting their work out there in order to start a discussion. So the artist doesn't say, my opinion is right. Anyone who doesn't agree is wrong. This kind of attitude might alienate the audience. But instead, if you just say, hey! Check this out. Here's something I think is important. What do you think? Maybe we should look into this? Maybe have a little discussion. What are your thoughts on this subject? And the artist has simply set the stage for more discussion. That's a great goal. At least, to me it seems like a great goal :) Anyway, that's how I'm thinking about art as communication lately. What are your thoughts? Please feel free to voice your opinion in the comments.
