The Thing About Narrative...

The use of narrative has varied in intensity over history. While almost obsolete during Formalism's reign, it has returned with an avengence that at times feels very elusive. Tell the story- but don't give it away. Leave the story open for multiple interpretations. There is an overwhelming sense of mystery and ambiguity. Why is this? What has caused this lack of commitment?

I have been thinking about the use of ambiguity as a tactic, and I'm not sure if it creates general interest, or if it is a cheap trick. I am sure there is a continuum along which the percentage of these two qualities fluxuates, depending on the artist.

I appreciate the work of Kara Walker because she uses imagery with many prior associations, but the majority of associations are congruent with her concept. But her work is not obvious. It is open to interpretation, but these fluxuations make sense with her own inner struggles; does she want to be belle or kill her?

I am less keen on the artists who tape the same scene over and over from slightly different angles, or changing the voice overs. This seems more like a "Where's Waldo?" book.



Kara Walker




Eleanor Antin