Hello readers and lovers of the Arts!

Today I ponder the question proposed by someone with regard to the meaning of how as Artists, we perceive this so-called Post painting, Post-Post Modern time period. How, in other words (or forms for that matter) do we express artistically what that means to us? My curiosity usually leads to research. In it I found more elusive definitions than I’d hoped for. Words themselves could not define for me the answers I search for on this topic. I continued research to assist me in defining What Is Art in this so-called Post Painting, Post-Post Modern Time with images as an important part of my query. Not surprising to anyone, I’m sure.

I didn’t want to include images from other artists as part of this post, in order to attempt defining it from my own point of view.

From a queried entry on Post-modernism, I was led to a few sections which were integral to my understanding. One of them is: Altermodern, the fourth Tate Triennial at Tate Britain. In that referenced article, I learned how Nicolas Bourriaud (co-founder of the Palais de Tokyo in Paris), had proposed using “the new term ‘Altermodern’ to describe how artists are responding to the increasingly global context in which we all now live.” More on Mr. Bourriaud’s definition of what he defines as the end of Post Modernism can be found in that interesting article regarding the exhibition. Soweto Kinch, a Jazz Musician and MC as he states, appears in a most inspiring video clip wherein he describes some of the fascinating work that went into the program of said exhibition. As I searched and researched it was that particular exhibition’s lead page which gave me some of the best understanding in a few short phrases.

Nowadays, some of the art I experience that’s getting major attention doesn’t always strike me as pleasing visually, sonically or what have you. Some works of Art I enjoy have an apparent connection felt by its maker. Whether categorized as visual, musical, writing or other, I’m excited when faced with a piece of visionary uniqueness. The subject matter can be almost anything. It’s gripping magnetism which arrests my attention. The din of commercialization in the arts which seems to overrule the search for something personally enriching, is perhaps the easiest way if not the saddest, in which I view the definition of Art in today’s world. On the other hand, I have had the great honor of standing before giants. I don’t mean giants in the art world or in the literal sense. You know…the kind of work that takes your breath away, never forget and sometimes dream to attain. Yes, those giants. I’m not one to put down anyone’s artwork nor will I point a finger at anyone for being a ‘bad’ artist. Because I don’t like them all does not mean it isn’t good to someone else. That’s the beauty of it. Just as my perception is, there’s something for everyone.

Maybe there’s a whole lot of people who believe I am not qualified to write on these matters, yet I do believe it because I am. I am an individual with opinions like everyone has. I am also an Artist who is within every right to perceive myself as such for the lifetime I’ve spent at the practice of Arts’ many branches of study. I am qualified because I have informed myself in every aspect possible to reach the professional level of dedication I’ve applied in accelerating my creative passions into this impassioned career. Where I used to merely collect my work into storage and share mostly with friends, family and the infrequent art loving passerby, I’ve taken to the public in ways I’d never dreamed were possible. To that end, yes…I can because I am qualified to inform by spreading knowledge like wildfire and love it all in the process.

As the subject of Art’s stance and direction is discussed, debated or expressed continues, I must add a few points of interest which clearly define its current state from my viewpoint:

1. Technology. Although many reasons exist opposing the über accelerated pace of technological advancement, we also have the flip side of its benefits. Feel free to pounce or relish!

2. Economy: A globally felt lack of income and resources tend to make all creatures a resourceful lot. Art of all kinds become status symbols, in turn becoming objects of desire. History repeating itself? Yeah, I thought so. Historical into the future? Absolutely! Make of it what you will, just make what your heart desires…and don’t stop making what you love because the ‘established’ don’t invite you in for heavy consumption while your artworks hang by the strings of the masses’ ideas of what art is!

3. Social Issues: The state of politics felt around the world now is of course the topic of all topics. Nothing new. Only a wee bit different from time to time. Some things we can change, others…well, you get the picture. Yet, imagine if no one did anything to change what they know is wrong, bad, distasteful, etc…How sad that would be! There will always be issues to resolve as long as we exist. HOWEVER—Remember those little things that money can’t buy? Try not forgetting those in your masterpiece for goodness sake! That which is the masterpiece of LIFE.

In closing, what will this topic inspire me to create? Am I to build upon what appears to be an enormous wave of conceptual art regarding money, power, politics, religion, geo-global conditions or saving near extinct creatures? Or should I can the ‘so called’ perception and do what moves me? Inquiring minds want to know!

How do you perceive this topic? I’m curious as to what your views may be and hope you feel free to comment below. I look forward to a rousing conversation!

Until next time, be well and enjoy life’s riches…the ones you cannot buy.

Adriana