cwinegargarrett

This article brings up interesting points, but many times it deviates away from a point, and by the end I’m not sure what was stated. However, the idea of beards dominating a vast amount of character portrayals is good to observe, especially because of the idea of an ultra-masculine tidal shift, or a contrast from ultra-feminine waves in TV.

It seems like even with the rising interest in intense beards in TV nowadays, most characters in a positive light are rather feminine. I’m thinking of shows where guys sport the scruffy half-shaved look, and usually there is a level of emotion and feelings that seems to juxtapose the testosterone-filled beard appearance. Maybe everything in this time has to be ultra-everything, because with streaming television and instant gratification, it’s impossible to keep things subtle and still have an audience…

Reading anything about art history feels as if most artistic ventures are totally narcissistic, especially related to self-portraits. But really, moving into the 21st century has made it absurdly clear how ridiculous being so self-absorbed is. Identity is a burden, but I feel like in the world of digital media, we are all part of an identity, rather than being individualized anymore. When I look at a photo someone took of themselves on a phone, it’s not just their photo, it is mine as well, I see something in it that I can relate to and despise simultaneously. Coltrane93, where do you see self-portraits going in the future? Will it become so inundated with selfies, or will the real value of being ALONE prevail?

My biggest issue with the work of Banksy lately is the work being brought into the world of museums. Having any of these pieces brought into such a stiff environment of elitist entitlement is so entirely ironic in regards to the controversial foundation of Banksy, it is totally shocking, and not in a fantastic art way. It’s sad. It reminds me of any historical art that was once shocking and simply became a new catalyst for those with money to buy their way into the world. My biggest question related to Banksy is: what’s next? What can possibly be more shocking than anything that has already been done?

I agree with your statement, KayKay, about the edge being greatly dulled by popularity. What was once provocative has become commercialized and too popular, which is a shame. Perhaps “Banksy” is not one person, but a collective of people that have shifted throughout time into a more materialistic and money-centered organization.