Useful art by John Byrne

In this video, John Byrne, author of Useful Art: How activist artists can change the world, discusses how art can move beyond aesthetics to become a practical tool for social change.

Through a wide-ranging Q&A, Byrne reflects on what “Useful Art” really means, what inspired him to write the book, and who he believes needs it most right now. He shares insights into the hardest ideas to write about, the most useful art project he’s ever encountered, and one actionable thing readers can do immediately to start making change in their own communities.

Useful Art is a smart, provocative book that reveals how activist artists and community-based projects are reshaping the world. Challenging the idea that art must be beautiful, Byrne explores how networks of artist-led activism and direct action are helping people fight back against the neoliberal takeover of public spaces, services, and everyday life.

From Turner Prize-winning urban regeneration projects to bakeries, vegetable gardens, and multi-use arts spaces, Byrne demonstrates how Useful Art can bring people together, preserve local skills and knowledge, and reclaim creativity for real-world good. Drawing on international case studies, the book champions a shift from aesthetics to use value, offering an artistic toolkit for implementing radical change.

The book is available from all good bookstores, or you can order a copy here:
👉 https://manchesteruniversitypress.co....

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