Kitsch

Something that is unusual or tacky can be said to be “kitschy.” This is kind of a catch-all word for art, objects, or tastes that are unusual. This cat puzzle can be considered kitsch because of its unusual pairing of cats with shoes. Some people are pleased with the silly, simple images of these cats.

Artists Showing Innovative Views of the World

In Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room Love Forever, Kusama shows a different view of the world, or in this case, different objects. This installation uses stainless steel mirrors and light bulbs to create art. Because of the mirrors, the light seems to stretch on endlessly, reflecting Kusama’s views of the world and its infinity.

Artists Giving Form to Immaterial

One role of the artist is giving form to spiritual forces. This voodoo mask is an example of this. Voodoo masks were made and worn in celebrations, rites, and mourning. The wearer of the mask was thought to be able to bring back messages from spirits and deities. This particular mask, artist unknown, is carved from wood and has nails driven into the neck.

Functional Objects as Art

The artist Kane Kwei often shows how artists make functional objects into something more meaningful. Kwei is a coffin maker who designs coffins that reflect some aspect of the deceased’s life. This coffin, designed to be a hen with her chicks, was made for a woman with a large family.

Aesthetics

 

The photograph Container City is an example of aesthetics. This building is located in London, England, and was created by Nicolas Lacey and others. This building is a work of art in its own way, using nontraditional resources, in this case, used shipping containers, to make rooms and sections.

Role of an Artist

One role of artists is making records of people, places, or events in a certain time. This print, entitled Jo-jo at Home, New York City, by Nan Goldin, represents one of the ways that artists achieve this. Goldin photographs her subjects in environments that they frequent, from bars to shops to their homes. The above photo shows a man, Jo-jo. By photographing in this way, Goldin is making records of a person and a place, showing a section of that person's life.