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.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
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.
Friday, September 21, 2012
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.
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