"WITH PERSEVERANCE YOU CAN DISCOVER ANY TRUTH", "YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSTITUTING THE MEANING OF THINGS" or "AMBITION IS JUST AS DANGEROUS AS COMPLACENCY.
Walking through the Sculpture Park Köln, enjoying the art and enjoying looking at the world a little bit differently, I sat on a bench. Before I took my rest in the shade I saw the words carved on the benches. Each phrase hit me like a wave of truth and wisdom.
Researching the artist I found this description of the work, "Jenny Holzer's work is always aimed at the general public. In 1977 she carried out her first anonymous campaigns with so-called truisms, truisms and expressions of "common sense". Other media such as benches, stickers or t-shirts were soon added. In 1982 she used the Times Square electronic billboard in New York. With her work she pursues the goal of subverting advertising and media messages by using the viewing and reading habits of passers-by and confronting them with their surprising messages. In 1980 she was the first American biennale participant to receive the Golden Lion in Venice."
I was one of those passers-by who was delightfully surprised. Instead of consumerism, I was pleasantly removed from my constant barrage of news, social media and divisive politics. Each line is worthy of contemplation and study. My personal definition of art is that which changes your view of the world. I am honored to have learned something from a simple rest in the shade.
Post Script: Life is interesting, especially when events repeat even though you are unaware. Let me explain. I shared this story of Jenny Holzer with my mother and she reminded me of two other times that I have been influenced by the artist.
First, in the Early 80's my mother lived in an artist loft on the 5th floor of the old Desmond department store in Los Angeles. The flat next to hers was David Amico's, another amazing artist. He let three other artists stay in his flat, next to my mothers. It was Richard Prince, Robin Winter and Jenny Holzer. My mother said she made her baked chicken for them therefore I know they all enjoyed each other's company. I remember they were staying there but I don't recall if I met them.
Then, my mother reminded me that, in June of 2017, we went to MassMOCA in North Adams and the same benches of Jenny Holzer were there. They blew me away then just like they blow me away now. (Check out the links below.) I can't help but think that our minds thrive on revelation and understanding. When we see it again, whether it is understood or not, there is an additional charge of "AHA!".
Skulpturenpark Köln
Riehler Straße (main entrance)
50668 Cologne
Stiftung Skulpturenpark Köln
Elsa-Brändström-Str. 9
50668 Cologne
T +49 (0) 221 33668860
F +49 (0) 221 33668869
https://projects.jennyholzer.com
https://projects.jennyholzer.com/exhibitions/jenny-holzer-mass-moca--/gallery#0
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