Summary of Intersections

Summary of Intersections

What were the keywords?

Interdisciplinarity, Land Art, Installation Art, Hybridity, Pluralism, Institutional Critique, Postmodernity, Theatricality.

What have I produced and learnt?

Formlessness

Without the need for literal representation, my work is unique. Formlessness has enabled me to concentrate on painting, the process of instinctual painting, not just the paint in its material form but fusions with varied materials. This confirms to me that I am not a traditionalist, conceptual or medium-specific purist.

Initially, the formless paintings appeared spontaneous or intuitive to me, but they require technical skill and knowledge of artistic principles. Formlessness has allowed me to break away from the constraints of realism and traditional representation. It liberates me to embrace experimentation, imagination, and innovation. This freedom nurtures my creativity and encourages me to take risks, leading to my personal and artistic growth.

Link to the exercise for Choas (below) - Exercise 2: Graphic Formlessness

Chaos.

Oil on canvas 60 cm x 45 cm

Robert Smithson

Researching Spiral Jetty, I've learned that institutional critique is about artists questioning and challenging the art world's systems and structures. They want to expose power imbalances, commercial influences, and biases within museums, galleries, and the art market. This massive artwork in a remote location defies traditional exhibition spaces. By placing it there, Smithson challenges the art market and questions the temporary nature of art. Studying this has made me think about the power dynamics within the art world. It has inspired me to question and reshape these systems in my own artistic practice, and to see how art can influence social, political, and economic aspects of society.

In conclusion, my research on Modernist painting and Greenbergian thinking during this part of my painting degree has been highly enjoyable and enlightening. I now understand that philosophy and art both involve questioning, interpreting, and inviting subjective perspectives. I have gained a deeper understanding of contemporary art practice and how it will equip me with knowledge and insight to engage in meaningful discussions going forward. For example, Marcel Duchamp expands my understanding by providing me with a foundation in conceptual thinking, intellectual engagement, and a deeper understanding of the historical and theoretical aspects of art.

I know that art goes beyond visual representation and serves as a platform to explore profound ideas and emotions. It confirms to me that art/painting extends beyond the canvas and intersects with philosophy, aesthetics, and cultural discourse. With this 'newfound understanding', I feel somewhat more confident in critically analysing and interpreting not only my own work but also the broader art world.

As I progress in my degree and beyond, I am eager to apply these insights, enrich my artistic practice, and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving contemporary art scene.

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