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Hazem Shammas, the acclaimed Palestinian-Australian actor known for his roles in Safe and now captivating audiences in Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, is grappling with a profound question: is there still a place for art when the world faces immense crisis?

In a candid interview with ABC Arts, Shammas doesn't shy away from expressing a growing sense of futility. “I feel the futility of it more and more,” he admits, a sentiment that resonates deeply in a time marked by conflict, uncertainty, and widespread suffering. It’s a feeling he describes as both “disappointing and troubling,” particularly for a creative individual whose work is intrinsically linked to exploring the human condition.

Shammas isn’t dismissing the power of art entirely. He acknowledges its historical role as a source of solace, resistance, and understanding. However, he questions its relevance in the face of immediate, urgent needs. “How do you create something beautiful when there’s so much ugliness in the world?” he asks, highlighting the internal struggle many artists face when confronted with global events.

The conversation inevitably touches upon the responsibility of artists. Does creating art, even if it's beautiful or thought-provoking, constitute a form of escapism, a distraction from the harsh realities of the world? Or can art serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness, fostering empathy, and inspiring action? Shammas doesn’t offer easy answers, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

His current role in Coriolanus, a Shakespearean tragedy exploring themes of war, political manipulation, and social injustice, adds another layer to his reflections. The play itself is a stark reminder of the cyclical nature of conflict and the enduring challenges of human leadership. Performing in such a work while wrestling with these broader philosophical questions undoubtedly amplifies the weight of his concerns.

“It’s not about abandoning art,” Shammas clarifies. “It’s about questioning its purpose, its value, and its place in a world that desperately needs something more than just beauty.” He suggests a need for artists to be more mindful of the impact of their work, to consider its potential to contribute to meaningful dialogue and positive change.

Shammas's honesty and vulnerability in expressing these doubts are striking. He's not alone in feeling conflicted about the role of art in times of crisis. His words provide a valuable starting point for a larger conversation about the responsibility and purpose of creativity in a world grappling with immense challenges. It’s a conversation that demands introspection, empathy, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and the world around us.