Experience: Art History VMFA Field Trip

We went on a field trip to the VMFA in Art History to visit the 21st century gallery. The art in the 21st century gallery is similar to the art we've looked at thus far in Art and Art History because most of it is a direct reaction to current events, politics, and an exploration of the human condition. However, where the art of the past tended to function as propaganda or reflect commissioners' ideals, this work seems to carry many more personal themes and narratives. We've discussed a lot of work that alludes to ancient art. Much of the work in this gallery uses allusions to past work to strengthen the universality and timeless nature of their messages. This 21st century art also boasts a wider variety of media and multimedia, largely a result of the rapid emergence of and experimentation with new technologies.  

I found one work in the gallery, Glass Lantern Slide Pavilion by Theastre Gates particularly compelling. I really loved this work because it invited the viewer into a space. The juxtaposition of the reclaimed wood structure with the LED lit art historical slides on the ceilings makes for a visually engaging space. The piece is full of symbolism: the hoses embedded in the wall represent those used against protesters of discriminatory housing practices during the Civil Rights movement; the tea cups serve as a metaphor for political, social, physical transformation; the slides on the ceiling were intended evoke questions of "high art" and "low art."  

Down the road I would like to experiment with making art on this scale. In the near future I see myself using more reclaimed materials to make my sand play boxes and tables. Overall, this was a really fascinating and inspiring work, and I was stoked I had the opportunity to experience in person at the museum. 

GLASS LANTERN SLIDE PAVILION, 2011
Reclaimed wood, linoleum twine, carpet, fire-hose, wine, metal, four ceramic teacups,
254 slides lantern slides, LED light