"art, objects, or design considered to be in poor taste because of excessive garishness or sentimentality, but sometimes appreciated in an ironic or knowing way."
Kitsch is the German word for trash, and is used in English to describe particularly cheap, vulgar and sentimental forms of popular and commercial culture. Related terms and concepts.
I enjoyed learning about a new artist in class on Monday, Petra Cortright.
When I was doing my own research on Petra Cortright, I came across this quote: "I hate being dependent on one thing. As an artist, there are always ways to accommodate your creativity — you just have to work it out."
I relate to this quote for a variety of reasons. Something that seems to be a recurring theme as I continue to pursue art- being increasingly involved in the art world, is the tension of creating art for yourself or for the consumer. As a professional artist, there is a tension within creating artwork as an outpouring of your own creativity and desire... and knowing what the public is looking for. For a field and career that is rooted in self-expression and creating invention, I find it interesting how the art world can be quick to put artists in boxes. Or at least encourage developing ones "style" and distinctive work. Something that stands out easily recognizable as "insert artist name." It seems as if there is a balance of exploration, creativity, and invention... and doing what you know works, brings money, and demand.
This quote by Petra Cortright can be applied to a variety of relevant issues within art practices. But I think it sees this issue in a positive light- where she recognizes there is often pressure as an artist, but it's almost never completely limiting. I would agree with her that as an artist, there is always an opportunity to be creative. Maybe it's not in your preferred medium, but we can be creative in problem solving, thinking, and life. The mind of an artist extends beyond the tangible art form- and impacts areas of your life. This can be used for good and to make positive change.
Pieces like this and artists like Petra Cortright inspire me in many ways. Contemporary artists offer unique perspective that is relevent and modern. As I continue to pursue an art career of my own, conversations and advice from experienced artists are helpful and informative.
These images are of my (almost) finished book. This is attempt one at binding the book. I enjoyed learning more about this method of book binding and found it relaxing to do. After finishing, I really wished I had remembered my covers that I had left on my printer at home... so I look forward to adding those to the book as I think they'll make a great addition and really finish the two books off. I used the light blue embroidery thread because it matched my eye color, which is prominent on the front cover. Along with blue tones, which are seen repeatedly throughout the books.
After reading this article- https://www.booooooom.com/2024/05/20/omote-by-artist-miya-turnbull/
I was inspired by Miya Turnbull and her unique practice. I appreciate how she talked about how she works across a variety of mediums. For me, I feel that sometimes it seems I should be limiting myself to one art practice- becoming as trained and good at that medium as possible to find success. I appreciate how she talks about the culmination of all the things she was interested in and how that brought this project to life. Supporting this, is the quote at the end of the article- where when asked what advice she would give to other artists, she talks about the importance of play and to not limit yourself. I personally felt this impacted me as I reflect on my own practice and how I so often, without realizing, put restrictions or limits to my own creativity in hopes of pleasing those around me.
This idea and time to reflect inspired me as I think about how I can use this in the book project- embracing play and limitless creativity, without pressure or the approval of others. Something that can be for my own enjoyment and mind to run free. Recognizing this lifts the pressure of perfection and encourages me to stop thinking and start creating.
