By Robin Bruno
We as a society are in the era of Contemporary art and people have different views on Contemporary art as a whole. Many dislike the simplistic style of contemporary art and even more absurd at the price they are sold at. But some enjoy it and how it makes people feel differently than others and how it also questions the boundaries of art.
One question that came to mind is, why is this simplistic artwork so darn popular? The “Comedian” created by the Italian artist, Maurizio Cattelan, is a fresh banana duck taped to the wall. This art piece is worth $6.2 million dollars, for something that you could replicate for under $20.
There was another artist in Italy, Salvatore Garau, who recently just sold an ‘Invisible Sculpture’ called “Immaterial” for $18,300.
The Graphic Design teacher at BHS, Mr. O’Reilly has said that the banana taped to the wall, “Has people reflecting on things like society, culture, subculture, and how using unorthodox techniques\approaches have people questioning what is considered art.” If art has the power to influence people so strongly, why dislike it?
The Ceramics and Sculpture teacher at BHS, Ms. Chu has said that, “As we entered the 20th century we got away from the typical representational, realistically depicted art work.” DaDa Art is an example of some abstract expressionism, which can be represented in “Fountain” by Marcel Duchamp.
With all this simplistic art around, another question emerges. Could Contemporary art discourage the new generation of artists to not be as creative?
Many say that artists will always be experimenting and adapting their skills for what they like. “A naturally artistic individual will experiment, but at the same time they will create work that is an extension of themselves by default,” said Ms. Chu.
With the birth of AI and its fast adaptability, modern artists have been adapting as well. Mr. O’Reily says that, “As long as artwork is still inspiring, complex, allows for self expression, and reflection, it doesn’t matter the simplicity of the work.” Artwork has always allowed for self expression, even the small stuff.
Art work will always evolve and adapt with the artist, and it is one of the truest forms of self expression for all. There is no wrong or right way to make art.
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