Jenny Holzer is an American artist who uses text, in lighting projections, signs, hand-painted posters, even bronze plaques. Her style isn't constrained to one particular thing, but her work is nearly always very simple and plain in approach, simply letting the words do the talking.
It is different to my work in that I am always striving to make visually appealing art pieces, however the simplicity and no frills approach to her work is inspiring. Am I doing too much?
Protect me from What I want, 1982
This piece, projected in the iconic Times Square, NYC, speaks of consumerism. It explores idea that we need to be stopped or that our hopes and dreams are dangerous. The word 'Protect' - needing to be shielded and looked after is used is a thought-provoking choice. This art work can be interpreted in many ways. The setting is intentional too, Times Square is the central hub of all things advertising, a consumerist paradise. Is this a warning to those being influenced by the constant stream of advertising beamed onto the screens 24/7 365 days a year?
Living, 1980–82
These painted signs have a mixture of diary-like entries and news headlines. They are very plain, black or red on white, same font and square shape. But the text is intriguing and personal. The words speak for themselves in this context, with the artist feeling no need to create a pretty picture, instead letting the words stand alone.
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