Feeding a hunger for something positive
Sarah Bush created an altar to democracy
Like many others, Sarah Bush was freaking out about the election. The Taos-based artist didn’t know what to do. “I spoke to so many other people, as well,” she says. “I wanted to create something that felt more empowering. I don’t like to feel anxious. I really felt like I was picturing all these gloomy scenarios. I’m an artist and wanted to make change.”
Bush created “Light a Candle for Democracy.”
She created an altar that will be draped with items that represent democracy.
Revolt Gallery in Taos will host the event.
The in-person installation will also be COVID-safe, as visitors will enter the gallery ‘shrine’ one at a time (or as a couple or small family) and spend only a few minutes in order to send their intentions and light their candle(s).
Revolt Gallery also has a big yard with lots of spread-out seating where it will be easy to socially distance as people wait their turn to enter, Bush says.
“It’s a shrine to democracy, and people can go into it and light a candle,” she says. “Instead of images of the Virgen de Guadalupe, it will have phrases such as “rule of law.” Each visitor can set an intention. I formed the initial idea that it would be neat to do this on a global scale.”
Bush will have a piece called “Old Glory” on display, as well. She will also have available her limited edition “vote” posters.
The proceeds raised from her sales will go to Stacy Abrams’ Fair Fight.
Fair Fight is an organization that promotes fair elections around the country. It also encourages voter participation in elections, and educates voters about elections and their voting rights.
Fair Fight brings awareness to the public on election reform, advocates for election reform at all levels, and
engages in other voter education programs and communications.
“This is something we need,” Bush says. “It’s important to keep people engaged.”
Bush wanted to create something because the world is hungry for something positive.
“It’s empowering to be in this mode,” she says. “I want to know more about all the issues and not get gaslit.”
“Light a Candle for Democracy” will be an in-person, as well as a virtual, event.
The in-person part will happen at Revolt Gallery on Sunday, Nov. 1, and run through Monday, Nov. 2.
On Monday, Nov.
2, Bush will be livestreaming from the physical installation and leading all the participants in a collective candle-lighting at lightacandlefordemocracy.com.
“We will light those candles to the democratic process, civility and respect for all,” she says. “The live-streaming creates an event that is socially distant and also allows people from all over the country to participate.”