Self as Subject
Definition
This term refers to artworks in which the artist uses themselves as the primary subject, often exploring themes of identity, self-representation, and the relationship between the artist and their work. This approach can range from self-portraiture to more conceptual practices where the artist's body, actions, or presence become central to the artwork.
History
The use of the self as subject has been a significant theme in art, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries, where artists like Cindy Sherman and Frida Kahlo have used their own image to explore issues of identity, gender, and the self. This approach often involves a deep engagement with the artist's own experiences, emotions, and perceptions, creating works that are both personal and universally resonant.
Notable Examples
Cindy Sherman
Untitled Film Stills, 1977-1980
Frida Kahlo
The Two Fridas, 1939
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Cindy Sherman, whose Untitled Film Stills series involves the artist posing as various fictional characters, exploring themes of identity, performance, and the construction of self, and Frida Kahlo, whose self-portraits often depict her physical and emotional pain, exploring themes of identity, femininity, and cultural heritage.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve the use of painting, photography, performance, video, and other media to represent the artist themselves. Artists may create self-portraits, document their actions or performances, or use their own body as a canvas or medium. The focus is often on the exploration of identity, self-perception, and the relationship between the artist and their work, creating a deeply personal and introspective approach to art-making.
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