Cathan O’Loughlin

“The artivist (the activist and artist) is someone who uses their artistic talent to fight and struggle against injustice by any means necessary” (Asante, 2008).

The resilience and significance of the artivist and protester in contemporary society are direct responses to the increasingly polarised climate in which we live. From hazardous protest tactics and bold statements to frenzied media coverage, artivists continue to show their dedication in the face of opposing systems.
My thesis explores these topics through case study analyses of the American art activist collective ‘Indecline’ and the British environmental activist group ‘Just Stop Oil’. Both groups highlight the importance and potential repercussions of platforming certain causes in a time when increasingly authoritarian value systems are closing down dissent.

This research project outlines my broader interest in social activism, current affairs and the role digital media plays in amplifying these issues. I plan to further these interests and my thesis-related research through work placements and postgraduate studies.