"What is art?" is the question that we will be exploring throughout this semester. We began the first day looking at a variety of answers. Classic art, such as the Mona Lisa, the best picture ever painted (arguably :-), and the thought provoking urinal. As we went through the slides, and people began commenting, it occurred to me that much of how people interact with art is about their own identity and experiences that culminate in a moment of response. For me at least, I find that much of the art that is considered good art, does not appeal to me or address ideas and issues that are relevant to me. Art is about perception, what we consider art is a reflection of and due to our pasts. My perception, at least at this point of my life, is one of color. Much of my own art, as well as my responses to it, are shaded by my experiences as a black woman. I am still contemplating whether or not that is okay with me, but in any case, I see it as true. I observe the world through brown eyes and skin, and often art speaks to me when it speaks the language of my experiences and concerns.
That may not make sense... but I'll try to give it more thought. Given those thoughts, here's a link with work of an African American artist (who will actually be coming to Brown in February), Cora Marshall. I think it ended up below this post... confusing. Here are two paintings by her that stand out to me. Look closely! She paints them on old news papers, advertising runaway slaves. This one's called Sarah...
This one is called Hannah...
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