Introduce and discuss the following quotes as a whole class, interrogating the meaning of the statements.
- “An artist must take sides.” –Paul Robeson, singer
- “Write about our people: tell their stories. You have something glorious to draw on begging for attention. Don’t pass it up. Use it.” –Lorraine Hansberry, playwright
After these quotes have been discussed, have students independently reflect on whether artists have a responsibility to focus on issues in their work.
Next, have the whole class look at Faith Ringgold’s “Flag Story Quilt” (If planning to complete Activity 4 do not yet reveal Ringold as the artist). For younger students, you may want to incorporate the text of Tar Beach by Faith Ringold and read it aloud to students and select an image from that text to explore.
With a partner, have students create a list describing everything that they notice in this piece of art. Reconvene as a class and discuss the following questions:
- How does the artist modify the U.S. flag? What are some possible messages the artist makes by modifying the flag? OR What super power does the girl seem to have?
- What might the artist be portraying with faceless heads in this piece? OR Why might this girl be flying away?
- What is the relationship between the text on the flag and the images on the flag, in this piece of art? OR What do you notice about the borders of the page? What do they remind you of?
- Why might an artist find emotional and political power in modifying a flag? OR Why might an artist incorporate a story to go with their art? What do you think this artist (Ringold) may have wanted us to learn?
After the discussion, have students create their own flags OR quilt page, bringing attention to an aspect of contemporary American life that they believe needs to be altered or “flown from” in some way.
As a whole class, create a list of ways that students can use the arts and other outlets to advocate for issues that are impacting their own lives and the lives of those in the communities to which they belong.