Acts of Resistance: The Power of Art to Create a Better World (Hardback)

Artists can be the guardians of truth. While politicians may retreat in the hope of a later advance, artists can stand on principles. Through their work and public commitments, they are part of the struggle for social and economic justice, universal human rights, and for the protection of the earth's riches, a common treasury for us all to share in equality and peace. Amber Massie-Blomfield's book tells the stories of some of the most notable artists whose work has made a lasting contribution in this epic battle - Ken Loach, director of Cathy Come Home and I, Daniel Blake

A diverse, global tapestry of artistic defiance in the face of conflict and oppression. Massie-Blomfield brings to light artists who persisted in creating meaning from senselessness, bringing solace amid strife, and keeping hope alive through expression. For those already convinced of art's political potential, Acts of Resistance serves as inspiring affirmation. For open-minded skeptics, it provides compelling grounds to reconsider dismissed possibilities. For all, it illuminates how creative spirits everywhere remain undimmed, even facing history's harshest glares. Acts of Resistance is ultimately a wonderful and important tribute to artistic perseverance against the odds - Nitin Sawhney

We hear a lot about how the arts contribute to the national economy. In this passionate and timely book Amber Massie-Blomfield inspires the reader to resist the very basis of that question, sharing the beauty, anger and invention with which artists have defended and expanded our idea of what it means to be a social species. Massie-Blomfield's reflective, joyful and rousing argument is seriously, hopeful encouragement - Toby Jones

A fascinating, passionate and political case for art's world-changing power, by a fizzingly good writer - Robert Macfarlane

A passionate and personal exploration of the tricky relationship between art and activism around the world, full of surprising stories of hope and resistance in dark times. - Dorian Lynskey, author of 33 Revolutions Per Minute: A History of Protest Songs

I loved this book and found it an essential and inspiring read. A brilliantly written and detailed account of those who have taken up creative, imaginative and spiritual arms to oppose the forces of war, injustice, discrimination and inequality. It's a must read for our times, a call, an inspiration and a road map for a better way of being' - Juliet Stevenson

'A rich and broad overview of socially purposeful art. Everyone interested in social change should read it' - Brian Eno