Passion To Break Fashion

On the subject of activism, getting creative can mean simply doing something differently. American walking enthusiast Mark Baumer is walking across the United States for the second time, and on this occasion, he's barefoot and with a great cause behind him. FANG Collective are a non-profit from Rhode Island, the smallest state in the country. This organisation are taking real active steps in communities in order to make life difficult for developers who disregard the environment. It looks like this can get a little dramatic at times too.


Mark is walking in peace, however, choosing a more passive way of raising support for the planet and the beauty it offers us each day. Vice Magazine has an interesting interview with the activist, he discusses his journey and feelings about the cause. It was carried out over the phone, and according to the author, was interrupted by a citizen and a police officer, both concerned about his safety. I suppose this is when he spreads his message, and their shock at seeing him helps them to remember.


Another way of making a statement is to make a demonstration that provides insight into the ludicrous nature of some of life's social rules. Transvestite, Sean Parsons is taking his home Canadian oil town by storm in a headline performance at the theatre. Surrounded by tough hard working drillers and industrial types, having the guts to go all out and perform to audiences dressed in the clothing of the opposite sex is only something for the thick skinned sensitive types like Sean.


Having the courage to go all out and make a statement that lasts for a long time in the minds of the audience, and provides plenty to think about after, makes a lasting impression for the work and its creator. This also means that sometimes work can be upsetting or disturbing, and this has to be allowed in moderation and with the correct labelling. Freedom to express means responsibility and it can be a fine line when it comes to things that seriously go against the flow of a cultural norm.