How can art serve as social commentary?

Art serves as social commentary by addressing and reflecting on societal issues, which helps raise awareness and provoke thought among viewers. This practice allows artists to engage with pressing topics such as inequality, politics, cultural identity, and environmental concerns. Through various mediums—such as painting, sculpture, performance, and installation—artists can highlight injustices, critique societal norms, and inspire dialogue or action. By tackling these issues, art often becomes a means of communication about the human experience, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own beliefs and responses to the world around them.

In contrast, simply decorating public spaces does not inherently convey a message or provoke thought, which is why that approach lacks the depth of social commentary. Avoiding controversial themes also prevents art from engaging with the complexities of society, limiting its impact. Focusing strictly on aesthetics and beauty may create visually pleasing work, but it often misses the opportunity to address deeper meanings or react to social issues, therefore falling short of the broader purpose that art can serve within a community.