Yesterday we enjoyed the second part of our group GI tour and much like the first day, it did not fail to inspire and inform. However, I think yesterday's tour impressed upon me the most in the sense that it really got me thinking about how we look at art and to ask myself how critically engaged I am in the process of looking at art (aided by Paul's probing questions and useful insights I might add!). For example, some of the the highlights of yesterday was Jordan Wolfson's video work at the the Mclellan Galleries. Probably the most impactful of the works on show was Raspberry Poser (2012), where viewers take-off their shoes to enter a cream carpeted, sound-proofed room and for the next 13 or so minutes were 'seduced' by visual imagery and music that had you pretty much transfixed and hungry for more, despite the dark subtext. Although watching the work made me feel slightly disturbed, it was also strangely compelling. Now quite about from the slick production, I really had to think more critically about my own feelings towards the work and put aside my own preferences and prejudices. Notwithstanding it's highly-polished production, I think the work was incredibly potent because there were so many levels to it, referencing culture, society and in some ways how we even consume images and experiences. Every aspect of the work seemed to have been well considered and executed to a very high level. That said, I probably 'liked' the 16mm films at the show more!
Other shows that really stood out included Michael Stumpf's show at the Mackintosh Building. Visually the work was very cohesive with repeated colours, forms and concerns with balance running throughout the whole show. It seemed that every aspect of the space was considered; the textures and surfaces originally found in the space were reflected in some of the materials and surface effects in the work. Quite a few pieces of the works were suspended from the rafters and was done in such a way as to respect the integrity of the space and reflected a real attention to detail. The whole body of work seemed to inhabit the space in a very thoughtful, well balanced, symbiosis with the building.
I had also been eagerly looking forward to seeing Claudia Comte's work at the David Dale Gallery. I came across Claudia's work in Frieze magazine recently and was instantly drawn to it. I recognise that I have a predilection for art works that are colourful, include repetitive elements, involve some level of craftwork and the use of natural materials so I guess it is no surprise that I enjoy (or am easily seduced by) her work. However, I think it really dawned on me that whilst it is good to be aware of your own likes and dislikes, I should not let my own considerations of 'taste' cloud my critical evaluation of an artwork. Whilst talking to Paul, I was surprised and interested in his comments and realised that this is something I really need to be aware of in what I make. Just because a work is beautiful and well made does not necessarily mean that it works well in the context of a space or an idea...it all comes back to the seduction thing. Be wary of being seduced by beautiful things and the importance of balancing looks and content. I think if anything, these two days of visiting the GI shows have heralded a turning point for me. I really need to be more critical when viewing art and in turn reflect more critically on my own work.
However all said and done, I still really enjoy Comte's work on a purely aesthetic level and I guess at some level, that can be okay too.
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