I stand for…YOU

“Hey, James, why haven’t you made any angry posters about…?”

It makes sense that I’m often asked why I haven’t contributed to the conversations on global warming or guns or school shootings or abortion or black lives matter or blues lives matter or LGBTQ issues or human rights…

Historically, I’ve been very active in the arena of social, cultural and political posters. The body of work I’ve created that addressed the earlier versions of today’s issues have been carried in rallies, waved at concerts and even dressed the walls of galleries and museums (like this one) worldwide.

I am proud of those images and still believe in them.

And I’m still an opinionated MoFo. But where I put my attention has changed.

Instead of focusing on the various issues themselves—which could be thought of as “the symptoms”—I choose to focus on helping people—or, “the source.”

Think of a world where the individual is free—not stuck, not internally struggling, not doubting their own thoughts and value and Gift. A world where they can express love fully and follow the purpose and play that is in their heart. That world doesn’t have the issues that we have today. And that is the world I want to work for and where I want to put my attention. 

The way I give a damn, and help, is through teaching and writing and sharing.

If, by that work, I can help you be seen, heard and loved—and paid for your Gift—then I’ve done some good.

If I can help you incorporate play and joy into your own efforts, then I’ve done great work.

As for works of art that support this—well, I think I’ve helped the world more with my ‘Weird Kid’ poster than my ‘RaCism’ one ever will. And my creative efforts will continue in that vein.

So, do I stand for something? Will I march for a side?

Yes.

I stand for you. I march by your side.

Cuz there is no enemy. Us = Them.