As artists, we all want to be original. We want to think we are making work nobody else has thought to make. We like to think we notice things that other people pass over and ignore. Douglas Weathersby does this in a very practical way. He provides a service to a client or a gallery, and uses that work to make his art. The commentary made a good point that in many ways he is working for you, but in other ways you are working for him.
Douglas Weathersby uses photography and video to record his work process to capture moments that may otherwise be considered “mess” or “dirty” or as something in need of cleaning or fixing and gives them significance. He finds beauty in these small moments that are often very intimate. He takes photos at unique perspectives of things like a close up of dust or light or a spider web blowing in the wind. These photos often seem abstract at a first glance, but then you realize that you have just never noticed how many colors can be found in sawdust, or a revelation of a similar sort.
This way of working is very interesting because he does not have to have a studio to make art, he can make art anywhere, and as a result, he is able to support himself as an artist. It is inspiring to see his work and how he turns what might be considered a mundane activity and turn it into an opportunity to create art.
I think an obvious, but significant generative topic that can be derived from this work could be “notice something you’ve never noticed before” or “make art by doing your homework or chores.” It might be interesting to have a middle school to high school age student carry a camera around and take a series of photos based on their homework and chores because it is probably not a place they have thought to look for the potential for art and it might give them reason to be excited to do something that normally causes frustration and boredom. Looking at these things from fresh perspectives can make them more fun. This sort of assignment would probably go over very well with the other teachers and parents as well!
My images are Douglas Weathersby photos from Google Images.
I think that this idea of finding art in the everyday is very clever and can create an interesting perspective for kids in a classroom. This different take on finding art in unexpected places can really alter the kids' view of the world and how they live their lives everyday. They could really start to appreciate the understated meaning within what would normally appear to be humdrum activities. Kids would now take a second glance when sweeping the floor or vacuuming at home, for a pile of dust in the corner can hide an unexpected and fulfilling find.
ReplyDeleteI must admit I did not understand this piece at first. Just because I didn't feel like I saw his final artwork, I just saw him "working" and installing things in this studio. After reading your piece though I feel like I understand it more. He does these carpentry jobs, etc and then takes pictures or film of those beautiful moments that are somewhat overlooked. The part with the saw cutting the wood is a really great part in the piece.
ReplyDeleteIn terms with working with kids, I agree that this would be a good project for them. Taking a closer look at everyday things and turning them into beautiful moments, or pictures, etc. is a nice idea. Even focusing on people hands while they have a conversation, or zooming in on the washing machine and how it spins and the sounds it makes. I think it would be a great project.