Multiples and Repetition

A few classes ago, we started talking about what makes a powerful image.

What were two strategies we have already reviewed that an artist might use to create a powerful work of art:

Tony Tasset

SIZE/Scale

Pablo Picasso

COLOR

Another strategy artists use to create a powerful image is to work in multiples or by using repetition.  By including many images or objects of the same work the artist makes it nearly impossible for us not to pay attention. 

Tara Donovan 

Artist Glenn Ligon is a contemporary artist who displays his work in galleries and museum spaces. 

Glenn Ligon is an artist living and working in New York. His work explores American history, literature, and society. He is best known for his text-based paintings

Using stencils he creates text in his art

By including repetitive elements, the viewer naturally takes notice.

BY DISPLAYING MORE THAN ONE OF EACH PAINTING, IT GIVES HIS WORK POWER.

Another artist known for working and exhibiting his work in multiples was Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol was an American artist, film director, and producer who was a leading figure in the visual art movement known as pop art. 

He was famous for exploring popular culture in his work, using brands like Coca Cola, celebrities and Campbell's Soup (which was one of his favorite things to eat).  Popular culture --that includes such things advertisements, comic books and movie stars is where Pop Art gets its name.

We recently opened the printmaking studio.  Warhol used printmaking to create repetition of his work.

Lorna Simpson is an African-American photographer and multimedia artist.  

 She collects old photographs from photo booths and displays them as a collection.

Would you notice this work as much if it were one small photo hanging on the wall?

 Closeup

Allan Mccollum

Ai Weiwei

A lifejacket becomes a powerful image when it represents the lives of refugees.  Thousands of life vests bring attention to a humanitarian crisis.  Would one life jacket be as powerful?  Art can bring attention to events happening around the world.

Did any of you get a chance to see the Ai Weiwei exhibit?  Forever Bicycle was a sculpture in the exhibit.  The metal sculpture was created by using the same object repeatedly.

As you think about your art:

Will making multiple pieces of art help you best express your idea?  Will it make your art powerful?

Which studio in this room might help you to create a repetition of your ideas?