This is What I know About Art-Christopher McVicar

 "Protest is way more complicated than communicating rage." 

I chose this quote because I admire Kimberly Drew's fierce spirit. She addresses her frustrations about the art world strategically yet bravely, because she knows acting out of anger can only impair communication. Being violent misconstrues a false narrative about one's character, perpetuating discrimination. And by Drew showcasing her resistance to temptation, she fosters the ability to find solutions and promote an inclusive culture for those within (and wanting to be within) the art world. Her actions speak volumes about how considerate she is towards others' interpretations. Being able to communicate to diverse audiences is one of the strongest traits one can have living in a post-colonial society. 

"I didn't dress like anyone else at the museum" 

Embracing a unique style is an act to form connections between generations and different social groups. Although it may seem simple and surface level at most, the way one individual or group dresses is a marker for cultural belonging. Rituals, feelings, and values are carried on through outfits. When workplaces mandate or conform to a particular dress code, a company may prioritize corporate identity over individual identity. To overcome internal biases on a personal and societal level, it is important to consider the authenticity or creativity behind one's sense of style within and away from a business-like setting. Maybe the next time your bestie posts a fit check, ask them what the fit means to them? What is it they are trying to express? It could form a meaningful connection. 

"If you wanted to be in a class with other students of color, you should not have taken an art history class."

I chose this quote because it calls out the power imbalances within the arts. Art history is taught from a Eurocentric point of view, only taking note of historically privileged groups, and that culture sadly persists. This makes me think back to previous art history classes I have taken, where eastern art is condensed into a chapter or two at most, but western art is sprawled into generations of time. Teaching a lop-sided curriculum castrates' people throughout the world and goes to show why institutions like the Met are so dominant. Surely, it is fascinating that one can explore every region of the world in the confines of a massive building, but it is more concerning than entertaining. There should be global revolt to initiate returns. Artifacts at museums should be brought back to their respective regions to enable others to travel and experience different cultures form their own. 

Hank Willis Thomas: "Scarred Chest" 2003

Digital Photography

Hank Willis Thomas is one of my favorite contemporary artists. I wanted to choose this piece in hopes that someone from the class will read into his work. 

Here, he objectifies a white man with logos of the Nike swoosh ingrained on the chest. Thomas does this to challenge status quo. Nike, a brand that prioritizes profit over ethics utilizes labor exploitation, it is evident through their consumer focus and marketing schemes toward athletes. Racism is imbedded in the culture of American sports, it reflects broad societal issues that contribute to stereotyping not only athletes, but fans, and organizations as well. 

I would like to curate a show of artworks that exploit name brands and their manipulative strategies to buy their products. 

         It will be titled: "Don't Do It."