While I also enjoyed hearing about Ligon’s work from Ligon himself, I was more drawn not only to his work, but the intent behind his works. I am always astonished when an artist has the guts to tackle some of the most controversial topics. Many of the artists we have been reading about have tackled the questions of identity and world, etc. However, Ligon’s ambition to crack the topic of race is a risky move, yet executed to perfection. His works are so beautifully crafted, yet even more beautifully meaningful. There is no doubting the intention behind some of the pieces, yet they seem so beautiful to be discussing such a controversial topic. The topic of race has been a topic that most people, even in everyday life, tip-toe around because of the fear of insulting anyone or making anyone angry. However, Ligon tackles this topic head-on, but executes it to pure perfection.
I think that the most interesting thing Ligon says is his explanation of the man who is trying to understand his work. “I had to point out to him that de Kooning paintings are a language to be learned. When they were first shown, they were ridiculed as being just drips and splatters and splashes. You had to learn how to read them. I’m only asking that the same process happen with my work. “ I find this to be a fascinating idea. No artists work can be read in the same fashion as another artist’s work. Therefore, for every new artist there is a different way to interpret their work. This is why some people feel a connection to some art and not to others. If you can’t learn how to read the artist’s work the way it needs to be read, you will most likely not get the experience from the piece that the artist intended the viewer to have.
I like your analysis of the quote, it's very insightful. I've never thought about it this way, even after reading the interview, and you bring up a good point; if you don't know how to read an artist you won't get it and you won't like the art. I've never understood why I didn't like some things, but now it makes sense, I wasn't reading it right.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that his work is very controversial. People do tend to walk around the issue, we are much more modernized in our responses to racial issues.
I find that quote by Ligon to be interesting as well. It does really seem like you need to learn how to read an artist's work before you can fully understand it. I also like the image you chose. I feel like it's saying that you don't need love to make you happy...without love there is still sunshine.
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