The Power of Art as a New Narrative

Abstract

This paper explores the intersection of art, narratives, and public policy. It proposes a

seamless interaction of the three spheres by connecting the narratives found in art to the

beginning stages of questioning and raising awareness that are necessary for social change.

Issues of Asian-American identity were explored through a series of art actions and

performances called Seven Days on Display. Each day explored a different theme and told a different story, thus allowing viewers to connect or confront the issues presented and their pre-

established frameworks. The works sought to provide the viewer with a space for dissent, or other forms of expression, and leave the viewer with a lasting image. In this paper I explain

further this process-from the grounding intersections of the art and policy realms, to narratives,

to the project, itself-and measure the effectiveness of these visual storytelling techniques against a rubric created by other artists involved with social change and public art.

Originally written for senior thesis in 2014. For full paper, check out this link.