When Cruz said that "Art should comfort the disturbed," he may have meant that art has the power to provide solace and a sense of belonging to individuals who may feel alienated or marginalized. Art can offer a means of expression for those who are struggling, whether it's with mental health, trauma, or systemic oppression. By representing diverse perspectives and experiences, art can help individuals feel seen, heard, and validated.
On the other hand, when Cruz said that "Art should disturb the comfortable," he was suggesting that art should challenge the status quo and make people confront uncomfortable truths. Art can highlight societal injustices, expose power imbalances, and bring attention to issues that may be ignored or dismissed. This discomfort can lead to reflection and introspection, which in turn can drive change and progress.
Ultimately, Cruz's quote emphasizes that art is a tool for social change. It should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also have a purpose beyond just decoration. It should engage with the world, reflect the diversity of human experience, and encourage people to think critically about themselves and their society.