Artist bio

My name is Triston Gollop. I hail from the beautiful twin island state of Trinidad and Tobago, currently pursuing a B.sc. in Political Science and Psychology at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados. I have always had a passion for the performing arts and have luckily been blessed to have the ability to act, sing and dance. I honestly hope to one day use my talents to give back to my country and my region, all while in the process becoming the best version of myself and inspiring others to do the same.

Title

Insurrection

Medium/Genre

Spoken Word

Artist Statement

Honestly, entering this competition was major step outside of my comfort zone, but I knew that it was needed. I woke up everyday excited engage with the app and trying find a scripture that I can some how tie into my piece. It was hard. Most days the motivation just simply wasn't there and I even felt like giving up. I felt stuck, like I was not good enough, so I prayed for insight everyday. But as time flew by i became anxious, I could not allow this opportunity pass me by. I had to at least give it a shot. So I pushed and I pushed until I felt that my work reflected God's message.

How it fits into contest

I believe that my work blended superbly with the topic of the contest. I thoroughly enjoyed writing and working on the piece despite the emotional roller-coaster I would have experienced. My work definitely reflected who I am, as I was able to reference some political and psychological terminology while simultaneously making a relevant reference to the scripture and I am quite proud of that accomplishment.

Credits

Written By: Triston N Gollop
Directed By: Tyquan Neblett
Spoken Word Artiste: Triston N Gollop

Transcript / Lyrics

Insurrection

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world,
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve God's will,
his good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:2

I am an insurrectionist, a non-conformist,
A revolutionary visionary, who has only one mission.
To break the chains and shackles that attach my brothers and sisters,
To institutions that impair their cognitions.
Institutions that fill their minds with notions of greed, pride and envy,
Institutions that teaches them to act on their emotions impulsively,
Institutions that eradicates their ability to even think about the idea of humility.

So we have forgotten what it means to be content.
Forgotten how to live within our means,
Relentlessly lusting for things, that we cannot have,
And so, have all developed a material dependency.
A dependency that will continuously be perpetuated throughout society,
As long as these institutions can maintain the devious tactic of cultural hegemony.

I urge you brothers and sisters, beware.
Do not be fooled by the facades of our leaders,
For it is their misguidance that ensnares us all.
Of course, they understand the unjust philosophies of these institutions,
But they dare not move a muscle.
Instead, these brazen gluttons have the audacity,
To invoke idea that the reason, I am poor,
The reason he must steal, and the reason she must beg,
is because we are too lazy?
Well to that I say God bless you.

I am not one to submit to anger,
But for too long, too long now have we been oppressed by the evil of this world,
It is time for a change.
My brothers and sisters I urge you to pray,
Standing fearlessly, douse yourself with the Armor of God,
For it is a spiritual protection necessary for one’s engagement in insurrection.
With the belt of truth fixed around your waist,
Don’ the helmet of your salvation and shield that shapes your faith.
And with the breastplate of righteousness in place,
Weld the sword of the spirit with grace,
Liberating yourself from the evil of these chains.
It is only then, will we all be able to test and approve what God's will is,
his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Submit Your Artwork Today!

Curious? Interested in submitting artwork to our contest? Know someone who might be? Through April 14th, 2022, the Engage Art Contest is open to the whole world! Get your foot in the door by claiming your Artist Page now!