strike end.
Hello artist,
You’ve done it. You are doing it!
I am blown away and inspired by you. You remain resilient, brave, and deeply connected to your community of artists. Your steadfast passion and resolve throughout the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes plus your commitment to gather together and to lift one another up reinvigorates the meaning of ‘creative force’. We’ve all been through the ringer in more ways than one over the past few years and you remain hopeful…that’s beautiful.
Here are a few takeaways I’ve come to realize having stood side-by-side with you over the last 10 months. Each fills me with joy and pride to be a part of our collective creative journey.
The strike challenged each of us with financial stability. Your acting income for 2023 is likely vastly different than last year. But, I’m reminded often that artists and actors are used to making it work. We always do. Over the past year, I’ve witnessed more creatives committing to side hustles, and reinventing themselves to temporarily provide for their families. This is admirable. You’ve taught me that there’s always an option - and another way to figure the money stuff out. Thank you.
The strike challenged our psychological strength, both individually and collectively. It catalyzed reflection, and invited you to dig deep for the ‘why’ of your chosen career. Why are you an artist? Why did you choose acting? What is the most important aspect of your art? What sustains your creative joy? What do you value most right now - meaning, connection, communication, storytelling, the beauty of humanity (and the list goes on)? Your answers are the threads that weave into a fabric that not only sustains your creative life, but also wraps around your entire community. Thank you.
The strike reminded me that challenge creates stronger community. Akin to when I lived in Chicago with the harsh winters funneling people into warm bars and coffee shops…we jammed in together to get out of the cold, and left with a shared experience. And, we’ve just proven that it creates immense solidarity. The strike showed the world how resilient we are, together. A metaphorical earthquake happened, an ice storm hit, a tidal wave washed over us, and you stood strong… Thank you.
I have attended more dinners, plays, outings, walks, talks, and events with fellow artists over the last year than I can possibly count. You capitalized upon the time we had to listen, share, commiserate, and understand one another. You showed up. What a privilege it has been for me to be surrounded by such compassion.
You’ll always have a home for your artistry here at aws. We support you and we believe in you.
Now, let’s get back to work…whooo!
x, EA