unceasing—we should always be redefining
what art is to us. Through this careful and continual assessment, we not only become better
acquainted with ourselves, but with the world
around us, as seen through the lenses of other
creators.
Mutt”) just be considered demolition detritus
were it removed from a museum and placed
by the curb amongst outdated sinks and cabinets?
I felt that, despite seeing some incredible
pieces that my formally educated, critical eye
deemed as great art, this bag was the most
engrossing and thought-provoking thing I’d
seen all day. It spurred not only an internal
dialogue of what makes something art, but also
a healthy discourse with friends who hadn’t
given the notion much consideration before.
For the remainder of my weekend in Miami, I
continued to playfully revisit this idea of “Art
or nah?”
In 1917, Duchamp’s Fountain was rejected
from the exhibition of the Society of Independent Artists; in 2004, it was voted the most
influential work of Modern art in a poll of
500 art experts. What makes art, art, is a fluid
concept; nothing is static. What could initially be dismissed by academics may be lauded
by future generations of art scholars. With our
ever-evolving theories on art, we are continu-
Art or Nah? (pt. 2)
To maintain an open and flexible mind about
what art is, we need to frequent art fairs, exhibitions, and performances; to read about and
discuss art often. We need to learn about and
create bodies of work that push us to go beyond the realm of what’s safe, accepted, and
established. Our perspective on art should forever be enduring refinement, and we should
always be asking questions, not asserting concrete answers. There is no definitive answer
to the question, “Art or nah?” It’s just the beginning.
Photos by Stephanie D’Ercole
ally modifying what is accepted as both valid
and valuable. So, we must keep repeatedly
exposing ourselves to, and creating, art that Art Basel is Miami Beach’s annual art festival.
This year it will run December 1 through 4.
pushes boundaries, asks questions, challenges
Visit ArtBasel.com for more info.
conventions. It is an ongoing process that is
Nu aux Jambes Croisées, by Henri Matisse
Orlando’s Art Scene, v. 1.4
48