Generative Topic

Watching clips from Aspect: Volume 6 was very interesting. I was drawn to a piece done by Pete Gomes. Using various forms of technology, Gomes uses chalk to create site-specific work in multiple locations. He creates plan drawings with white chalk that compose new boundaries, navigation, and territories. The points and lines he draws are architectural.



From seeing how Pete Gomes draws directly onto the ground with chalk to temporarily create various shapes and forms, I would like to focus on public/free art as a generative topic. The various messages, concepts, images, and expressions left on streets, buildings, and signs has always intrigued me as an artist. It is interesting to consider who the artist perceives the audience will be, and how everyone and anyone as access to the pieces. Gomes uses chalk and modern technology to trace and draw shadows onto typically urban streets. Many street artists use stencils, spray paint, wheat paste, and other forms of imagery to temporarily or permanantly make their mark and express themselves to the public eye.



It would be interesting to explore with a class different forms of public art in different parts of the world; differences and similarities, as well as different mediums used by different artists. Also, to learn about the different ways of communication that are effectively conveyed using public and street art.

In a video, street artist Shepard Fairey discusses his views on public art:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awKJQ-HfEHc