Keeping it all inside ..Not

the risks of

Thinking about my online interactions gives pause on certain days..like today .

Since last October my posts on social media have been political in nature -and unrelated some might believe to my art business. My confidence has been buoyed by other artists and creatives that have spoken up openly about their sentiments regarding Gaza and Palestine . There are days I cannot bear that we are watching /witnessing the daily murder and catastrophic maiming of children, women and men in a genocide in 2024 and that it seemingly cannot be stopped. That homes, hospitals, schools have been destroyed, cultural treasures and places of worship have been bombed to rubble. Journalists, doctors , Aid people have all been targets - Condemnations by internationals bodies like the UN and IJC seem impotent. The only thing pulsing hope into my veins is the ongoing protests of youth, students and people worldwide . Mainstream media disappoints -yet fortunately there are brave Gazans who keep informing us despite blackouts of mainstream journalism(AlJazeera’s office was shuttered in Israel and no foreign journalists have been permitted in Gaza ) and efforts to quell their voices inside. I’m also hoping that some of us have learned a little bit more about the cruel occupation of Palestine through this tragic unravelling of events .

Social media and the internet allow us a platform to air our feelings ,opinions and hopefully influence the world in a better way.

Do you worry how you may be perceived as a working artist if you express your feelings publically ? Do you wonder if it will impact your work -or your sales?

How much of who we are as people to we bring into our art practise.?

The horror of this genocide has definitely affected my psyche and my art making.

I try to present myself with integrity and I aim to be genuine about my thoughts with the realization likely not everyone will agree with me. Some will stop following me on social media or subscribing to my newsletter. Well that is ok ..because I would much rather you read my newsletters because our values fall in line with each other. I respect differences of opinion but also hope in my heart that there is some alignment with my sentiments. here.

The silence of the world and nervous caution about speaking out or showing solidarity with Palestine has felt crushing to me. It seems so many feel comfortable revealing personal layers of themselves online -deaths of loved ones, broken relationships , hardships, emotional and mental fragility -yet to speak up against the killing of other human beings -our brothers and sisters on earth seems to be outside their comfort zones..

Is there a fear of losing friends and followers if you express your views publically ?

I’m trying to understand.

I definitely fall into an age category where I care less about the popularity badge and work even harder to be as whole of a person from the inside out as I can be.

Won’t my personal values interfere with a professional image I’m trying to maintain.?

It is my belief that every interaction you have is meaningful -whether online or in person. in order for me to be connected to my heart and values I cannot separate myself into different compartments. It’s important for me to stay true to myself and my own beliefs . I do not trust the mainstream media currently to convey the truth-and all of the truth. (Personally I refer to Aljazeera news -for an other than Westernized viewpoint !)

If you feel like I do and have the need to learn more here are a few esteemed writers I follow here on Substack who may help you feel more solidarity and understanding :

Caitlin Johnstone

Jonathan Cook

George Hazim

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In the spirit of giving I am sending one of my art postcards to you if you send me your name and snail mail address . This is not a fundraiser for Gaza rather a show of your support and solidarity for the cause through appreciation of this art . I will mail internationally !

I truly appreciate that you subscribe or follow me here and this is just a small gesture to say “thank you” It helps to know you care.

You may message me here or email me at maudstarr@gmail.com with your address and I will send a post card to you promptly !

Thank you for reading Ageless Artist

Heather