This blog post is going to be an exploration of my thoughts on the creative process and why most art made under capitalism is really just a commercial. These opinions will be based on my knowledge of global art history, the sciences, the scientific process, and the social study of anti-Black, capitalist, America.
My Relationship to Art
Defining Art: Art, in my own words, is the creative expression of human experience.
As a very type-A, reserved, and, relatively, anti-social person, my relationship to art as a mode of creative expression has been strained. Perfectionist behaviors have often tainted my experience of a free-flowing, artistic expression. I believe there is value in mastering the basics (drawing a circle a-la Squidward Tentacles or playing a C-scale) before venturing off to explore modes of expression with more autonomy, but most days, I just cannot bring myself to practice.
Art, Creation, and Discipline
I struggle with the creative process. In my studies, I have, created a very unique system for studying and memorizing information that can be applied practically on an exam or in clinical settings.
I haven’t come up with much of a system for exploring my artistic flare. I’ve explored doodling, painting, coloring, and the keyboard, but I truly do not enjoy the process of those modes of expression. I enjoy writing for my blog, a lot, but I don’t understand what is supposed to come out of the process, just yet.
Why Art Under Capitalism is Mainly Just a Commercial
Art under capitalism is often a medium of commercial expression. A bid to get a consumer to look, click, buy or listen, to invest time or capital in the consumption of some thing. ‘Mainstream art’, whether it be modern-day, radio, hip-hop or much of the graphic design used in advertising, is like potato chips (no shade to chip munchers): it is made fast and processed, is highly palatable, but is not nourishing and is gone as quickly as it took to wrestle the bag open.
Much of today’s art, like in many periods of history, serves a very distinct purpose. If you’ve been reading my blog, you know that I am highly critical of the colonialist agendas of post-15th century society. Much of human art is a manifestation of these intersecting societal and historical cues, so for that reason, it often hard for me to lay my critical eyes aside.
Some Art That I Have Liked Recently
Recently, I’ve begun to see the value in intentional and inclusive spaces, sustainable architecture, sustainable fashion, and furniture that is easy-on-the-eyes.
Here are some images from architect Francis Kéré, an architect, from Burkina Faso, who is re-imagining a Burkina Faso that includes sustainable design and architecture.
Francis Kéré Burkin Faso Sustainable Architecture via Bloomberg
(architect Francis Kéré via Bloomberg.com)
(architect Francis Kéré via Bloomberg.com)
(architect Francis Kéré via Bloomberg.com; linked at bottom of page)
(architect Francis Kéré via Bloomberg.com)
Here are two (2) examples of sustainable furniture that have inspired me, recently:
Very minimalist, I know, however, I argue that these kind of sleep mats (inspired by Japanese tatami mats) is more cost effective and environmentally friendly than hefty mattresses.
This just looks fun and comfortable to sit and lounge in. Sitting in desk or dining chairs is not always fun for the spine.
That’s all for now!
Ironically, this blog post become somewhat of a ‘commercial’, however, I did need to include links and credit! I am not paid nor sponsored.
Best,
Ashley ❤
Earnest Supplication 
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