Episode 16: Tré Borden on Art as a Tool for Change and Why It’s Time to Get on Your Witch Shit

This week, Adama, Maddie, and Sam sit down with artist and cultural strategist Tré Borden, founder of Tre Borden / Co, to talk about why art isn’t just something we hang on a wall—it’s a force for change. From guerrilla projections to powerful installations, Tré shares how artists are pushing boundaries, telling untold stories, and showing up as the truth-tellers politics desperately needs right now.

We get into the real talk on how influencer culture is reshaping creative spaces, why authenticity matters more than ever, and how new institutions can (and must) make room for artists’ voices. You’ll hear how the political climate is shaping artistic expression, the role digital platforms play in what we see and share, and why creative resistance is essential in this moment. We wrap with a call to action: use your creativity as a tool for community-building, advocacy, and empowherment—because the future belongs to those bold enough to imagine it.

Here are the key episode takeaways: 

• Art transcends boundaries—it’s a universal language that fosters connection and community.
• Artists are truth tellers, confronting societal issues and envisioning new narratives.
• The role of artists is evolving in response to shifting social, political, and cultural dynamics.
• Political climates shape artistic freedom, influencing what can be expressed and shared.
• Authenticity matters—in both art and politics—for building trust and resonance.
• Art is a powerful tool for activism, amplifying the impact of organizations and social movements.
• Digital platforms create opportunities and challenges for how art is created, consumed, and valued.
• New and reimagined institutions are essential for supporting genuine artistic voices.
• Community-building through art fosters resilience, joy, and collective empowerment.
• Collaboration between artists and organizations can amplify reach and inspire change.

And if you want to tune in for specific portions, here’s the episode breakdown: 

• 00:00 Introduction to Art and Resistance
• 02:46 The Evolution of Art and Artists
• 05:56 Art as a Storytelling Medium
• 08:49 The Impact of Digital Platforms on Art
• 11:51 Authenticity in Art and Influencer Culture
• 14:47 Art's Role in Community and Cultural Identity
• 17:43 Navigating the Current Political Landscape
• 20:57 The Future of Art in a Changing World
• 25:54 The Role of Institutions in Art
• 27:23 Artists as Catalysts for Change
• 32:25 Authenticity in Art and Politics
• 33:24 Art as a Tool for Social Justice
• 37:21 Innovative Projects and Community Engagement
• 45:16 Reimagining Institutions for the Future
• 48:10 Reflections on Political Accountability
• 50:45 The Role of Media in Political Discourse
• 53:55 The Power of Artists in Politics
• 58:33 Community Engagement Through Art
• 01:01:23 Spirituality and Resilience in Activism

Below are some links our guest recommends you check out: 

• The GLEAM
• Tré Borden Co Newsletter
• Patrick Kelly articles: W Magazine & Met Museum 

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