23-05-2025
Brian Carlson: An Artist Fighting Injustice with His Colors
My American friend, visual artist, and human rights activist Brian Carlson has dedicated his life to supporting the weak, the oppressed, and the innocent around the world, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. Through his paintings, he expresses deep humanity and uses his art as a tool for advocacy.
His artistic journey began in 1995 after witnessing the bombing of a federal building in Oklahoma, which resulted in the deaths of 168 people. This moment was a turning point in his life, prompting him to drive to the city to witness the tragedy firsthand. Upon his return, he felt compelled to take tangible action, creating a mural in memory of the victims and showcasing it in multiple locations to spread his message.
As the new millennium dawned, Carlson immersed himself in the painful issue of violence against women. He spent two years researching before launching his interactive art project, 'Writing on the Walls,' which invited the public to engage and share their experiences. His goal was to raise awareness and provide a platform for women to express their suffering.
In preparation for his journey to Argentina, he explored the reality of violence during the dictatorship from 1976 to 1983. He visited 'ESMA,' a secret detention center, where he witnessed the lingering effects of terror and despair. This experience inspired him to create a memorial for the disappeared, known as 'Los Aparecidos,' the largest handmade memorial in the world, honoring 30,000 victims.
Carlson paints with all his senses, drawing from the depths of his soul and always feeling the pain. He frequently reaches out to me, inquiring about the situation in Yemen and expressing his sorrow. These human connections deepen the impact of his artistic message, making his works a true expression of suffering.
He possesses a unique ability to transform pain into art, allowing his works to reflect suffering while fostering dialogue on human rights issues. He also manages a digital version of the memorial online, where visitors can explore images of the victims and learn their stories.
Carlson is not just an artist; he is an inspiring human figure. He personally bears all the costs of his projects and sells his paintings to raise funds for the people of Gaza. His artworks reflect the suffering of Palestinians and Yemenis, drawing inspiration from their stories to highlight humanitarian crises.
His commitment to humanitarian issues makes him a living example of how art can be a true force for change, reminding us all that we are part of a larger story that requires compassion and solidarity.
