Art in Challenging Times

Art in Challenging Times

by Mario A. Campanaro

Let’s discuss the fact that we are all making necessary adjustments to persevere and overcome despite the heaviness of what is going on in our world. Part of being an actor/artist is being on the constant journey of learning who we are under the myriad of circumstances that life presents us. And with what is going on in the world today… right now… we are being given this opportunity now more than ever to go on that very journey.

We can use this time to learn who we are. Who are we without what we do? Who are we without income, friends, family, things, games, etc.? Who are we without? Internally. Who? Without labels of profession, activity, relationships. What’s left? What is the beautiful complexity and substance that lives within all of us without all of the other “stuff”?

We need to lean into that profound discovery and those possible transmutations and transformations. This ‘social-physical-isolation’ is and yet is not a choice. We have to take this time… instead of falling into a pit of worry, despair, and fear that takes us farther away from who we are… What if we walk toward who we are? To understand that we are more than what we do, more than who we hang with, more than our salaries, more than where we live…

What if we take this opportunity to help us grow within even more? The planet is asking us to do this as She heals. And so, we are making these adjustments and persevering as best we can during this time so we can also heal. Let’s do it together.

And yet, as artists, as we go on this journey of learning who we are without, it may be easy or tempting to give up and forget our purpose as artists during these times of great strife. We may forget the power that lives within all of us… and what we are capable of doing with that creative power. It is so important for artists to continue to show up right now (even though we must do so virtually) because there is so much healing that art is capable of achieving.

Our ability to share gives connection to others who may feel lost, disconnected, and isolated. Our work can help others learn who they are through its powerful mirror. Our work can help others connect to themselves. We all need authentic connection within to help others experience authentic connections within. This is our responsibility as artists—to GIVE.

If we think about it, many spend more time with actors in their living rooms more often than with family, friends, or colleagues. And even as we ask who we are without… and even through all of what is going on in our world… we must understand that our work still matters. We… who we are… at our very core… are the instrument of our work. And knowing this, it is so important to remember that our work has meaning! Especially in times such as these!

There is purpose to it. It has function. It is a form of medicine, if you think about it. Never take what we do for granted. Use what is going on in the world and find a way to bring more importance, depth, and meaning to your work… your gifts… who you are… your purpose. That is your creative power. That lives within. Use this time to continue to learn, explore, and discover who you are at the very core so that as you continue to fulfill your purpose here on this planet, you are doing so with that much more authentic, connected, beautiful, and powerful sense of Self.

Copyright © 2025 Mario A. Campanaro, All rights reserved.