Monday [APRIL 11] Lecture.

I really enjoyed today's lecture.  I love the idea of exploring "the body", which truly implies, "the self", and the images employed by society as the ideals.  I found the discussion on Robert Mapplethorpe particularly interesting.  Kip tells that some believe Mapplethorpe is commenting upon the image of the black man in our society and others believe it is a fetish of his he is exploring through his artwork.  This question will forever be open ended.  In my interpretation, I really love how Mapplethorpe pushes the boundaries and causes society's eyes to jump out of their heads.   Who knows if this is a fetish fulfilled hobby or it Mapplethorpe is trying to make a statement, but I think it is almost better that way. Just as Duchamp says, the viewer (the second half of the art process) interprets the work of art how they see fit, and inputs commentary upon the world from their own perspective.  Mapplethorpe, by not publicly announcing his motives, is allowing this natural process of art work to occur, something very courages and willing for an artist to do.  Aside from Mapplethorpe, I found the evaluations of the ads very interesting.  Now, in most public evaluations of advertisements, it is common to criticize the image of the woman as portrayed as ideal.  I really appreciate Kip's commentary on the image of the man, not to mentioned loved the story of the girl in the man's locker room haha.  Anyways, this part of the lecture really got me thinking about my confession assignment. I know I posted the assignment due yesterday on three ideas, but I think I have formulated a better one.  I decided I really want to focus on self image.  I want to make a statement with this project at the same time and really push myself to the boundaries.  I have an idea in mind, using photography and my own body. I really want this to be a genuine confession and I feel really good about this idea.  I don't want to give this one away but I really hope I can build up the courage and strength to really pull it off.  

Love this one of Patti Smith. Beautiful composure and dimension.