I think it is appropriate to allow the artists to share honestly if current events are distressing and impacting them. Not just politics but natural disasters, local catastrophes, and personal trauma or health concerns. Then we in community will be able to offer genuine support as our peers process and heal through reflection, art, and discussion.

This would be different from analyzing current social problems to advocate for a course of action or a political outcome. The leader and moderator should also always be free to share her truth! I think that a question such as “is it okay to spend my time making art while the world is in distress” is a relevant and welcome question.

Personally I don’t foresee that my art will be political, but I would accept and welcome artists who confront society in their work m.