In an era dominated by misinformation, alternative facts, and increasing censorship, the role of artists in defining and defending truth has become more crucial than ever. When protesters face suppression or restrictions, art serves as a powerful medium to amplify their voices. From political cartoons to expressive paintings, artists worldwide are using their craft to highlight injustices, challenge societal norms, and provoke critical discussions.
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The Power of Art in Challenging Social and Political Issues
To explore the significance of art in raising awareness, The Daily Star interviewed seven artists who have dedicated their work to shedding light on pressing social and political issues.
Satirical Art as a Medium of Expression
Satirical art, particularly cartoons, has long been an effective tool for addressing political and social concerns. According to Biplob Chakroborty, Staff Cartoonist at The Daily Star, successful political cartoons must be thought-provoking yet simple and creative.
Biplob’s recent works have tackled topics such as:
- The COVID-19 pandemic – Addressing government responses and public health measures.
- Rising vegetable prices – Criticising economic instability affecting ordinary citizens.
- Failures of Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA) – Highlighting the struggles of daily life due to inefficient urban services.
The Challenges of Political Cartooning
Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy, Founder of Cartoon People and Associate Editor of Unmad magazine, acknowledges that creating political cartoons comes with significant challenges. While cartoons can be provocative, he believes tolerance towards diverse opinions is essential in a democratic society.
“Not every piece of art will be an artist’s best work,” he states. “However, young people must have the freedom to express themselves and debate ideas. Cartoons, music, theatre, and other art forms foster critical discussions.”
Tanmoy also highlights increasing censorship worldwide. “Our society often lacks a sense of humour when it comes to political satire. Many artists fear being politically incorrect, which has stifled creativity,” he laments. His recent works have covered:
- The youth movement for road safety
- Police brutality
- The Digital Security Act
- Climate change activism
- The COVID-19 crisis
Art as a Reflection of Society
In 2018, Asifur Rahman’s illustration on the road safety movement in Bangladesh gained international recognition when it was featured in Al Jazeera. His artwork depicted students restoring order while corrupt police officers undermined their efforts. Asifur continues to use his platform Arts by Rats to post cartoons on issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and gender-based violence.
“Creating art about politics is becoming increasingly dangerous,” says Asifur. “Artists have faced arrests or job loss simply for expressing their views. As a result, many are resorting to self-censorship.”
Similarly, Fatima Tanjum Tuba, a Computer Science and Engineering student at East West University, creates comics highlighting issues like child marriage, sexual violence, and unsafe environments for women. “It takes courage to create art on sensitive topics. Some people react aggressively to satire, but art remains a vital form of protest,” she explains.
Tuba finds it challenging to focus on her art when overwhelmed by news of gender violence. “Our society often blames rape victims for their clothing choices or personal history instead of addressing the crime itself,” she remarks. She appreciates the growing art scene in Bangladesh, which provides a platform for artists to express their views.
Artistic Responsibility and Social Change
Rehnuma Proshoon, Head of Communication at Cartoon People and contributing artist at Kishor Alo and Ikrimikri, believes in using her art as a tool for social change. Her recent works address violence against women and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Artists have an obligation to speak out,” she asserts. “Art can unite people and bring attention to injustices. If we remain silent, we enable wrongdoers.”
Adib Reza Bhuiyan, a Media Studies and Journalism student at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, sees comics as a way to channel frustration constructively. “People cannot seek justice if they are unaware of issues,” he states. “I use comics to expose hypocrisy and depict problems from a victim’s perspective so their voices are heard.”
In March 2019, a fire at FR Tower in Dhaka’s Banani area claimed 25 lives. Adib’s powerful illustration of an incomplete conversation between a mother and son during the fire resonated widely. His other works have addressed:
- The Shafiqul Islam Kajol release movement
- Harassment of women on public transport
- Road accidents
- The murder of Abrar Fahad
Indigenous Art and Representation
Jayatu Chakma, a Fine Arts graduate from the University of Chittagong and Rabindra Bharati University, focuses on the struggles of indigenous communities in Bangladesh. “I want to depict the insecurity and violence faced by the Jumma people,” he explains. “My paintings show what has already been lost and what is at stake.”
One of his works portrays Sajek Valley as a tourist attraction built at the expense of indigenous Tripura and Lushai families. Similarly, recent protests by the Mro community in Bandarban against a five-star hotel and tourism project illustrate the exploitation of indigenous lands.
“Tourism development often displaces local communities,” Jayatu states. “While visitors enjoy the beauty of nature, few question the missing families who once lived there.”
The Future of Political Art in Bangladesh
Despite the impact of art in activism, the creative industry remains highly unstructured. Asifur Rahman believes that artists need additional skills in animation, graphic design, and web development to sustain themselves in the field. “Drawing alone isn’t enough to survive,” he says.
Biplob Chakroborty is equally concerned about the future of political cartoons. “Young artists in Bangladesh are incredibly talented, but opportunities are scarce,” he notes. “Many newspaper cartoons today lack sharp satire due to increasing censorship.”
While these challenges persist, history has shown that some of the most powerful forms of resistance emerge during difficult times. Artists must continue to reclaim lost spaces through creativity and determination, ensuring that their work serves as both an accurate reflection of society and a beacon for change.
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