A Global Artist Speaks Out on Trump’s Impact on the Art World

Logan’s passion for art has been evident since he was a child, with a pencil in his hand. In his studio in Regina, where he often draws inspiration from the sounds around him, Logan finds solace in the world of art. Elton John, a frequent visitor to his studio, is a fan of Logan’s work, and his record player is a testament to the artist’s love for music. Logan’s journey as an artist has taken him to various parts of the globe, with his latest installation in Venice, Italy, being a notable highlight. However, a recent development has left him feeling uncertain about the future of his art and the art world at large. A commissioned ceramic piece of his was meant to be part of an exhibit called Nature’s Wild with Andil Gosine at the Museum of the Americas in Washington D.C., but it was cancelled unexpectedly. The cancellation was attributed to the abrupt cancellation of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) programs by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has made significant cuts to these programs after signing an executive order on his first day in office. The theme of the exhibit was centered around queer sexuality and love, a topic close to Logan’s heart. Logan believes the cancellation was a preemptive move by Trump, who has been vocal about his opposition to queer rights and other marginalized groups. He expressed concerns that museum staff were fearful for their jobs if they went through with the exhibit, leading to the cancellation. This cancellation has sent shockwaves throughout the art world, with many artists and museums feeling the impact. Logan is not alone in his concerns; many queer artists and art organizations are facing similar challenges due to Trump’s policies. The cancellation of DEIA programs has left Logan feeling uncertain about his future as an artist. He has decided to avoid travel to the U.S. for the time being, even for work purposes, due to the perceived threats to his safety and well-being. Logan expressed his worries about the loss of safe spaces for queer people and other marginalized groups in museums and art galleries. He believes that these institutions are essential in showcasing diverse perspectives and stories, and their closure would be a significant loss. Despite these challenges, Logan remains optimistic about the resilience of the art community. Many museums and art galleries have come together to showcase his work and that of other artists from the Nature’s Wild exhibit. This collective effort is a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving the diversity of the art world. Logan’s art is a reflection of his passion and creativity, and his decision to create more art in response to the current events is a powerful statement. He has a number of upcoming projects, including a major exhibit in Venice and a project with Inuit print makers in northern Canada. His second book of poetry, Green, is also set to be released in May. Logan’s artistic medium is multi-disciplinary, incorporating drawing, ceramic sculpture, and installation practices. He works with real plant life and has recently been experimenting with drawing on clothes. His ability to adapt and innovate is a testament to his creativity and dedication to his craft. Throughout his career, Logan has been inspired by the world around him, from the sounds of his studio to the beauty of nature. His passion for art is evident in every piece he creates, and his commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives is a reflection of his values. Art is a powerful tool for expressing emotions, challenging social norms, and promoting understanding and empathy. Logan’s art, like that of many other artists, is a reflection of his experiences and perspectives as a queer person. His work serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the art world. As the art world continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize the values of inclusivity, diversity, and creativity. Despite the challenges faced by Logan and many other artists, the art world remains a vibrant and dynamic space that is capable of inspiring and empowering individuals and communities. Logan’s story is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and bring people together. His commitment to his craft and his community is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, art can be a source of hope and resilience. **Key Takeaways:**
• Logan’s art is a reflection of his experiences and perspectives as a queer person. • The cancellation of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) programs has had a significant impact on the art world. • Many queer artists and art organizations are facing similar challenges due to Trump’s policies. • The art world remains a vibrant and dynamic space that is capable of inspiring and empowering individuals and communities. • Logan’s commitment to his craft and his community is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, art can be a source of hope and resilience.