The Little Book of Activism
The Little Book of Activism by Karen Edwards is a book that offers advice and inspiration for craftivists everywhere. Learn how to use your craft skills to make a difference, however big or small. Below is an extract from this exciting book to get you started!
Tried-and-tested forms of activism
Artivism
The many different creative techniques of combining art with activism.
Craftivism
Activism that incorporates the practice of craft, particularly through needlework.
Pamphleteering and leafleting
The distribution of unbound booklets discussing a cause; used for wide circulation.
Petitioning
A list of signatures supporting a call for social change or reform.
Micro-donation
A small charitable donation toward a cause; also known as microphilanthropy.
Clicktivism or digital activism
The use of the internet, especially social media, to gain support for a cause.
Economic activism
The use of economic power to persuade social change and reform.
Collective activism, peaceful protests and demonstrations
A collective action to show support for a cause or to achieve a common objective.
Artivism (art + activism)
For hundreds of years, artists have been using their talent to identify and draw awareness to important social issues. In doing this, they bravely cross the controversial threshold from their role as creators to one as social or political commentators.
Artivism encourages thoughtful conversation around an issue. Engaging with it can be both pleasing and uncomfortable, as it commonly stirs up feelings of vulnerability and a sense of pathos – but these feelings are often instrumental in inspiring public support.
The influence of an artivist should never be underestimated. They can appeal directly to followers – whether through social media platforms or in performance spaces – sharing their stance, rallying emotions and discussing personal experiences around an issue. The most powerful work will often be shared on social media over and over again, reaching large international audiences in a matter of hours. By including a simple plea for support alongside their work, an artivist can achieve huge awareness for a cause in a short space of time.
The subtle power of craftivism
Craftivism allows messages around social reform to be explored through the creative pursuits of needlework, sculpting, jewellery-making, pottery and even yarn bombing – and it can encourage more thoughtful decision-making from those in power. It is truly a dynamic, gentle and respectful way to open a conversation around an issue.
The term “craftivism” was coined in 2003 by the late Betsy Greer, an American writer who is a major advocate for the goodness within crafting. At the time, she wrote, “Each time you participate in crafting you are making a difference, whether it’s fighting against useless materialism or making items for charity or something betwixt and between.”
In contrast to the loud and demonstrative action of a protest, craftivism encourages quiet engagement with issues and is becoming a popular, non-intrusive method of activist communication. The calmness of crafting can also act as a form of healing for activists themselves, who can channel emotions such as fear and upset into patience and reflection.
Craft in action
- Judy Chicago’s 1974–1979 installation, The Dinner Party, featured 39 embroidered place settings on a table runner, showcasing the names of remarkable women in history, alongside their valued accomplishments.
- In New South Wales, Australia, Knitting Nannas Against Gas peacefully protest against environmental destruction for non-renewable energy use. They sell their hand-knitted beanies, scarves and badges, and gather at planning permission hearings to share their craftwork.
- In 2018, craftivist Salma Zulfiqar from Birmingham, in the UK, began working with local refugees to make a stitched quilt entitled The Migration Blanket. The finished product is a startlingly honest patchwork showcase of what a lack of safety feels like, alongside hopes for the future.
Ideas for the quiet activists
- Try your hand at knitting or painting – you can sell your art or craftivism to raise money for your cause, or use it to share a message.
- Start a blog about your activism journey and share your emotions, experiences and schedule with your network.
- Start a podcast at home – all you really need is a microphone and, if you are feeling fancy, a pop shield. Pick an angle for each episode, and maybe even invite fellow activists to join you.
- Verify information with charities and organizations, before creating a simple website with your findings and sources. You might end up being a valuable resource to many people.
- We discussed this in more detail on the conscious activism page, but living by example truly is the best way to advocate for your cause.
Extract from The Little Book of Activism by Karen Edwards, published by Summersdale Publishers, £6.99 www.summersdale.com
Available from Amazon, Bookshop.org and other booksellers.