In Order To Love Something...
Today I read a quote by one of my favorite artists, Odd Nerdrum, “A painter who does not read philosophy will never be a great painter; thought must come first.” Never shy about speaking his mind, Mr. Nerdrum is referring to Kant’s beliefs regarding form and the communication of aesthetic ideas, particularly the elements that constitute fine art as opposed to crafts. Regardless of one’s philosophical beliefs, or lack thereof, when applying the intent of this remark to the art Nerdrum creates, I find it almost impossible to disagree with this statement; I appreciate art that makes me think.
"Embrace" Oil on Canvas - Odd Nerdrum
It is my intention, however, to reach viewers on a subconscious level, and I am inspired by artists who work in the same artistic praxis. My piece, “Broken Shattered Love Lost,” was influenced in composition and mood, by the German Expressionistic film, “Nosferatu.” The title was plainly automatic writing. – I had just re-read “Mad Love.” In the book, Andre Breton spoke about ‘love’ on a subconscious level. “I want you to be madly loved.” Plainly surrealistic, the words in this book formed very subjective images in the mind, and in doing so, inspired my creativity.
Detail, "Broken Shattered Love Lost" Acrylic on Canvas - Higgins
"Nosferatu" F.W. Murnau (1929)
So what then is the criterion for “good art?” I am not willing to comply with one fixed definition, and will always believe the answer to be intensely subjective, if not the question, a little absurd.
Breton at Dada Festival in Paris, 1920, wearing a slogan by Francis Picabia..."In order to love something you need to have seen and heard it for a long time bunch of idiots." ~
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