Bob Flanagan was quite a man. I never really learned about or understood the masochistic world that is so hidden within our society before this class. Although I find many of the things he did to be extremely disturbing and way too much for me to handle at times, I applaud his individuality and ability to do what made him feel whole and satisfied. He also embraced his illness and long-lasting battle with Cystic Fibrosis and included this struggle within all aspects of his art and performance shows.
What disturbed me more than all the gross mutilation he did to himself, were the photographs and videos his wife took of him while he was on his death bed along with after his death. The images and final video moments were so powerful and heart wrenching. His suffering and fear showed through his eyes in a way that was almost too real to watch. I am amazed as to how she was able to document these time periods and images the way she did. It almost makes it more disturbing and difficult to see knowing who took the pictures.
Sophie Calle was another artist who was extremely interesting to me. I honestly wanted to run out and buy her book the second we were done with class and still plan on doing so. She is unique in her visions of romance and all human relationships in general and lives her life in a very different way, one in which she has more control and power over. Her photography is also powerful in context with her writing. Her French-ness also bleeds into her artwork and personality in a way that I love, being French myself. She is a romantic who sees the world through her own, very unique eyes.
No comments:
Post a Comment