Art has always been a powerful force in bringing people together, fostering connections, and creating a sense of community. In a world that is becoming increasingly isolated and individualistic, the role of art in building bridges between people has never been more important.
Recently, I delved into Robert Putnam’s seminal work, “Bowling Alone,” which delves into the decline of community in the United States. Published in 2000, the book sheds light on the shift towards individualism and the erosion of traditional social connections. As I read through its 581 pages, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between Putnam’s findings and the current state of our society.
The rise of community art in recent years is, in many ways, a response to this societal trend. Artists and creators are increasingly turning to collaborative and participatory projects as a means of fostering connection and belonging. As my colleague Christopher and I research for our upcoming book on community art, we are struck by the profound impact that art can have in bringing people together, regardless of their differences.
At Colossal, we are firm believers in the unifying power of art. Our platform is dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of creative projects that celebrate individual experiences while resonating on a universal level. We firmly believe that art has the ability to transcend boundaries and create a sense of shared humanity.
However, sustaining a platform like Colossal requires the support of our readers. While we are passionate about what we do, the reality is that independent arts publishing is not financially sustainable without additional funding. Only 1% of our readers currently contribute financially to our work, and we rely on the generosity of our community to keep our platform running.
If you believe in the value of art and its ability to bring people together, we invite you to join us as a Colossal Member. By becoming a member, you not only support independent arts publishing but also gain access to exclusive benefits such as ad-free browsing, discounts in the Colossal Shop, and a members-only newsletter.
In a world where divisions seem to be growing deeper, art offers a glimmer of hope and connection. Together, we can continue to celebrate the transformative power of creativity and build a more connected and vibrant community. Join us on this journey, and let’s create something truly extraordinary together.
With gratitude,
Grace Ebert
Editorial Director, Colossal
