It's now March 2021, a full year has passed, still processing our new world. Although the vaccines are slowly distributed, our transition into the 2020's is off at a pretty parallel start. I can only speak for myself, but I am sure I share the same emotions as most in that adjustment is a rollercoaster. Artists are supposed to reflect the times, but really need to reflect upon themselves first. In order to carry a message or share a story, an artist really needs time to dig deep unconsciously, letting life dictate.
The past few months i've been studying the self -- moreover, spending time excessively painting (quite organically) and seeing what's in store for the future. My profession is rooted in retail, which continues, but I'm revealing more of the spiritual and explorative side of my work.
I was speaking to another artist entrepreneur the other day, and we spoke about authenticity. Selling artwork in a retail setting strips so much of the authenticity from the artist. But do consumers always prioritize the need for authenticity in the art they buy? It's not 1960/70's anymore where artists have a raw chance of exposure, requiring more rebellion and hustle. Social media blurs a sense of reality, and everyone can have their 15 minutes of fame, like Warhol predicted. How does an artist surpass the madness? Do you even both considering these things? The eternal contradiction of a "struggling artist."
As we move forward in time, the next ten years will be revolutionary in technology. As for me, I hope to delve deeper into a stripped down sense of self, sans social media fabrication. Perhaps focusing on the real, our reality will feel more realistic.
Included in this collection of visuals is the music video, Sister Morphine (1971) by Rolling Stones. My dad keeps saying he's ready to take the needle, aka get the vaccine. But there's such complication in doing such!! Bit of a heavy comparison, but I vibe.