Over the last few weeks there has been some debate over the merits of protest art. As a writer myself, I’d like to offer encouragement for those pouring their post-inauguration efforts into protest signs, paintings and poetry. Art is more than simply a viable option for political expression; it is necessary.

Art needs you. There has been talk of shutting down both the National Endowment for the Arts and PBS under the new administration. This would be a heavy blow for art and education in the public sphere, and a serious victory for the continuing privatization of both sectors. With this kind of threat looming, protest art takes on a kind of double meaning; not only does it speak out politically, it fundamentally demonstrates the importance of art.

Beyond that, the creation of protest art is essential in bridging the gap between inactivity and action. As we have so often seen, dissent regularly threatens to boil down to nothing more than talk. Taking action, however small, is therefore paramount. Art functions not only as taking action but also as a call to action. Creation can be a powerful way in which to inspire and rally others, as well as to hold oneself accountable for acting on one’s convictions even when doing nothing is far easier.

Art is powerful. The music that came out of the Vietnam War protests continues to endure, as does the art of AIDS activists and those involved in the civil rights movement. These pieces of art made their mark on culture as they made their mark on politics. Potent movements of social change have harnessed the power that art provides to make real lasting change in our society. Art is a well-traveled road to real societal impact. It would be foolish to ignore it.

Art is also gratifyingly nonviolent. It stands out as an accessible and easily identifiable form of nonviolent protest. In a political climate that can sometimes feel unorganized and convoluted, art can be a direct line to badly needed nonviolent action.

Creating something meaningful can be a productive way to vent emotions that might otherwise cause deep personal stress or be realized in less constructive ways. The act of creation can be a beneficial and small-scale way of seizing control of something for one’s own; a movement of empowerment. When tensions are high, as they are now, personal health cannot be overlooked. Discouraging people from creating art out of doubt of its direct political impact can mean overlooking the personal benefit of creating art in a time when many feel powerless.

Art is also reasonably accessible and widely available. You do not have to be Picasso to make something meaningful, as has been witnessed time and time again with many simple yet powerful posters and signs. Those who may find themselves unable to march or attend rallies for a variety of reasons may, through art, participate and stand for what they believe in. Art not only bridges the gaps between inaction and action, it creates for some a sole outlet that otherwise would not be available to them.

Fundamentally, it may also be noted, art belongs to all of us. This Democratic quality is perhaps what makes it so inherently worthwhile in pursuing in times of political unrest. That quality is also what makes it so important to defend.

While the current moment may feel uncertain, and the path forward may appear unclear, it may be comforting to be reminded that some of the best creative work is done during periods of great duress. So break out your paint, your writing notebooks, your tools of choice. Make something meaningful.