Page 15: So, let's bring about a change.

Artist: Vittoria CMP.

 

Page description and purpose: This page will present the words on a stage to represent the societal changes we can create, with each of us playing a part. Vittoria was the perfect find! She’s a wonderful illustrator, but it was her toy carnival stage that caught my attention. Collective change requires us each to take a part; all change starts on an individual level. The only one we have real autonomy over is ourselves. The stage is the perfect metaphor for this. Society is the grand play, but each of us must choose to step onto our own personal stage—the space where we have agency over our attitudes and actions. Let’s each rewrite the script of "othering" to end monologues of judgement and fear, and begin ones of understanding. The stage curtains represent the constant opportunity for change; with each new scene, we can choose to close on prejudice and open with compassion. While we cannot control the entire production—nor should any one person have the power to do so—we are the authors of our own part. When we write our own dialogues of understanding, the collective narrative inevitably shifts toward justice and connection. The grand changes we seek in the world begin with the quiet, determined choices we each act upon. For this page, Vittoria will create a new paper model stage to bring the words to life. The symbolism of the stage underscores the profound meaning behind the simple text and adds another interactive, artistic element. Vittoria will also show children how they can ‘build their own’ stage at home online once the book is published here online.

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Vittoria, welcome to All Other, Together—your illustrations always show such forethought and care for your work. I'm excited to see the stage you create for this page. Rose