It’s in the word “icon” which is a synonym for celebrity; an icon is a recognizable image. In order to be recognizable, it must be static. In this way, celebrity is also static and unmoving. In order to be heralded by society, a person must be captured in a moment, such as a photo or a bronze statue. It is that static moment that becomes recognizable.
On a micro scale, we as artists lock into a certain persona, or what is expected. Whether the audience expects it, or we expect it of ourselves, we find a mold to fit into. Sometimes, this is a good thing. People can spend years trying to find their artistic groove and finally, when it fits, that is something to chase, tackle and adhere to. It’s like following a smell toward food. Chasing one’s muse and finding it is not what I am talking about.
To differeniate, I am talking about recognition. It requires stasis.
So, why not move? Why not, instead of being a celebrity, whether in your own mind, locally, nationally, even internationally…be an artist, be moving. Be fast on your feet. Pure in your mind. Solid in your heart.
With social media and internet culture, we are immersed in a world of self-reflection. This is not where art lives.
Do not be an icon: be a river in motion.
Artwork pictured was at Ice House Gallery in Evanston, ILĀ