In the history of art activism, art that has had the most power is that which was created by nonprofessional artists. But Art History classes fail to teach this kind of art, just as History classes largely fail to teach activism as a whole. As a result, many of us go through life thinking that people are powerless, and our current condition is unchangeable.

What is the best approach to a political system that consistently makes us feel voiceless and hopeless?

The "artist mind" (or what I know of it) is tailored to an activist way of life. Hopping fences to get the perfect picture, living meagerly until the greatness of their work is recognized, advocating for the attention of those with "power" – whether they are dealers, gallery owners, or politicians... artists see what is yet to exist, and have enough belief in themselves to make it happen.  

An artistic approach to politics is necessary. After all, that's what this "change" business is all about! Obama is talking about a government that is held accountable for their actions; ACP is talking about a political participation that goes beyond the polls once a year to ensure that citizens advocate for their mutual well-being. It is a future that we have a hard time seeing because it is so different from life as we know it. But with a little creativity, some idealism, and some passion, we can all make tomorrow a little bit better than today.

What does a creative approach to politics mean? Don't be passive. Go beyond choosing the politician whose beliefs are closest to your own—actually advocate for the beliefs you feel strongest about! Join a listserv for a cause you care about, and attend events. Write letters to local, national, and even international politicians when you feel that something needs to be addressed. We too often think that our voice doesn't matter- but politicians often have staff whose sole assignment is to read our letters, research whatever issue it focuses on, and relay it back to their boss.

And that's what our  TWISt is all about. The TWISt is YOUR VISION of society, which we add to a database of thousands of other TWISts to create a  "People's Platform"  of ideas and solutions that the people care about. The "People's Platform" is an important tool for the people, including politicians, to see what others are thinking and feeling. We can use this Platform to advocate locally and nationally: it is simply what the people want- without tricks, without agenda.

This is politics THE PEOPLE'S way—it's creative, it's hopeful, but most importantly, it's possible.