Kendall

Overall, I did not enjoy the exhibit at Kendall very much. I thought it pushed limits (which is what they were trying to do) but I struggle to call it art. I do not appreciate things that are intentionally offensive to try to make a point. I think if a point is valid, there should be a way to express that point without having to resort to purely shock tactics.

The Kendall exhibit was saturated and dripping with shock tactics. From very offensive thoughts and images regarding gender, to very revealing images, etc. It incorporated sounds, visuals, motion pictures, 3D art, photography, and more. (This is a good thing, to incorporate the different senses, I just didn’t appreciate the subject matter and shock tactics it used.)

I think art can be a conversation a lot of times, and resorting to shock tactics (which this exhibit seemed solely based on) is like having only an emotionally charged conversation. It does not respect the person you are conversing with, assuming that they cannot look at the objective facts and differing views and draw a legitimate conclusion. It is like screaming in an argument – it might gain attention, but it is not respectful nor is it as persuasive, in my point of view.

Again, if you have something good to say, you don’t need to overemphasize it to the point of being blatantly offensive.

On a more personal preference note, I love art that is simply beautiful and has pleasant aesthetics. I just really enjoy that about art and that is what I love about art, although I realize that many people like it for other purposes as well. I love to look at art that shows a high level of skill and craftsmanship as well.

In general, the Kendall exhibit did not have a lot of this, but I did include some images of pieces I appreciated more so. I think the Kendall building itself is a beautiful example of art, with beautiful structures and a rich history that goes along with it. I was able to explore and read about a little of the history through plaques they had on the wall. That was probably my favorite part of the experience!