This text, written by Tony Kushner, reflects on the use of Graphic
Dissent and its effect on societies and how it can be used as a tool to
influence society. Kushner also talks about the difficulty of producing a piece
of dissent that can be successful in doing this. An example of dissent that
Kushner repeatedly returns to is an illustration by a French miniaturist, Gros,
and he uses this example to summarise what makes a good piece of dissent: “This image shares with other successful
instances of graphic dissent at least three characteristics: it is shocking, it
is clever – even funny in a grim sort of way – and its meaning is instantly
intelligible.” Political consciousness and the spirit of the people is what
makes these pieces of work so successful and if it awakens the political awareness
then it has done its job well. A piece of graphic dissent can be a catalyst,
which can push, or even cause a political revolution. Kushner makes a comment
on how powerful these pieces of work can be and how much of a phenomenon it is:
“It is even more of a miracle that the
act of forcing the impossible is, in the history of political revolution, often
catalyzed by something as flimsy as a poster plastered on a wall.” As well
as a tool of political revolution and rebellion. Kushner explains how they can
cement a certain political dominance. Through the use of a grim sort of humor,
a winning party can celebrate illustrating or representing the opposition in a
mocking may which will strengthen their authority. However these pieces of
dissent aren’t always successful. It is very rare that something like this will
have the desired effect. Kushner says that they are hard to produce however
there is always someone who will be on hand to create something when the time
demands it.
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