Post Modernism

Controversy was a main goal for the post modernists. They wished to challenge the minds of the public to consider subjects such as homosexuality, making fun or political values & their own values. They decided to broaden their minds using methods such as mixing history with the new. They didn't believe that fine art & commercial pieces should be completely separated. A graphical poster could be seen as art, a painting could be used as an advertisement. Why not?



 The pair of men featured in this piece are the artists Gilbert & George, well known for their offensive, controversial imagery. They are known as the living statues, this originating from an art performance during their school days. However this nickname continued due to their suits (they usually wear them) being known as their uniform, they are never seen not wearing them in public & furthermore one is never seen without the other. As you can see they cause controversy with there apparent homosexuality portrayed in many of their pieces.

 These squares & bold colours are the most common style throughout their work. I feel it that it makes the subject matter more comical due to the unrealistic but vibrant shades.It is believed that they wanted to cause the subject to be funny as they wished for the public to learn to love & laugh about such issues in society. They created such controversial pieces to stir the reaction. That is what they & many other post modernists enjoyed the most.

 If society learned to make fun out of such issues the world would be a lot easier to survive in. Controversy I believe is the greatest thing to create with art. If artists never challenged the minds of society, present time would be a very depressing period.