a year of silence

2/13/14

  Art is a reflection of the social, political and historical context in which it was made. (*thank you, professor C.!) Every human being on this planet is an embodiment of the social, political and historical context in which they live. None of us is unique, special or wonderful, no matter what your parents may have told you.
  An artist is no more important than the paint, clay, ink or film she or he uses. He or she is just a funnel through which an idea (a reflection on their context) flows through. After the artwork is completed, the artist's usefulness has ended. Artistic intent means nothing. If the work is done well, it far surpasses any original intent by the artist. It is autonomous, didactic and sublime. Great Art is the closest thing to perfection human beings can ever hope to glimpse.
  Bearing that in mind, it is important that i make something clear. Despite what i may have previously implied, i am not the actual artwork in this project. My ongoing silence is. I am just a funnel for this idea to flow through and take shape.


2/14/14

  Appreciating and analyzing artwork is an objective, NOT a subjective experience.
  One of the many things great Art can teach us, is the lesson of objectivity. You cannot look at an artwork subjectively and ever hope to reach its core truth(s). It is important to set aside all ideologies and opinions in order to become a "blank slate", so the artwork can take hold. You need an open mind. Sex, politics, religion......everything is up for grabs. You will never be able to learn anything of value if your mind is caged by some obtuse, archaic, "rule book".
  This one facet, like many of the important things Art can teach us, should be carried over into our every day lives. Have an open mind and be objective about everything. When you put away antiquated belief systems and take a chance, you can learn some fantastic things.