– University City’s Marlon West, lead animator for Disney, uses comic art to cope with COVID and civil unrest.
– West’s work focuses on Black Lives Matter, and the lives lost recently.
– West expresses his social concerns and thoughts via his comic book-style art.
– Works capture the essence of present-day America, the global pandemic, and racial tension.
– Marlon West emphasizes the duty and influence of artists in challenging times.
Battling Covid-19 and Civil Unrest with Art
A Missouri native distinguished for his creative prowess at Disney, Marlon West, has always aroused emotions through his animation. However, the present times are unusual and have called for an unconventional approach. Therefore, West resorted to comic-book style art to express and process the challenging emotions kindled by the COVID-19 pandemic and the racial unrest following the tragic deaths of Black Americans, including George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.
Art as a Means to Express Emotions
West’s powerful comic book creations are not just about offering resistance or expressing outrage; they are deeply personal and aim to trigger conversations on race, the pandemic, and the state of America today. These creative works bear his voice and perspective on the ongoing social and public health crisis, an attempt to articulate his distress, hopes, and fears, grabbing the attention of myriad local and global audiences.
Artists and Their Roles in Troubled Times
West continues to underscore the critical role that artists play during times of distress and unrest. Being an influencer in the industry, he believes it’s the responsibility of artists to communicate the sentiments of the people, acknowledge their pain, and voice their yearning for change using the universal language of art.
The Breezy Take
Marlon West is certainly using his artistic prowess to convey a powerful message. This University City native, known for his stroke of genius in Disney animations, is turning the pain of the pandemic and racial unrest into socially conscious art. It’s fascinating to see how art not only serves as an emotional outlet for the artist but also stirs dialogues and inspires change in others. This story is a testament to the undeniable influence, duty, and versatility of art and artists in challenging times.
Original article: https://stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2023-08-25/ink-tributes-pay-homage-to-victims-of-police-brutality-civil-rights-heroes