Even as an artist, I was skeptical of much of contemporary art. I wouldn’t call myself nearly as innovative, forward-thinking or avant-garde as the artists that I’ve discussed. I would argue that makes these artists more creative than the classical artists of several centuries ago. Expectations and paradigm of art has changed. We are no longer seeking out artworks that are merely meant to be looked at, but pieces that are meant to start a discussion. These expectations are going to continue to change and be challenged. There’s no telling what direction art will go in next.
As much as it seems that art lies in a separate world from mainstream society, art and the everyday have been intermingled more than ever. With Marcel Duchamp’s appropriation of readymade objects in the early 20th century, the everyday has been integrated into art. And ever since the Pop Art movement in the 1960’s, art has become integrated with everyday life. Art has been used as a way to reach the general public, to inform people of an idea. Art is no longer just for the wealthy that can afford it or meant to be accessible only to people within this upper class demographic. These themes that have been discussed – time, space, identity, the body, and ritual– are topics that are relevant to everyone. Everyone has a body, and thus everyone can physically relate to space and the world around them. Artists’ works are becoming increasingly integrated with society and are meant to bring awareness to all aspects of life.
Contemporary art is a reflection of our current time. It contributes to our culture and our culture contributes to it Art has embraced a wide range of materials, forms, styles and addresses a diverse set of topics and issues. As a viewer, you, or anyone, can contribute to contemporary art. If we keep our minds open to understand and discuss art, we become part of the artworld public. We can become critics. We can contribute the art that will be passed on to define our generation.
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