Tuesday, 24 February 2009

naughty naughty

Invader infiltrates cities all over the world by integrating these extraterrestrial aggressors into the landscape.

Thundercut alters the WALK signs of downtown New York by placing elaborate outfits and accessories made out of vinyl pieces onto them, addressing the diversity of the people in New York City. 

In the traditions of the exhibition space, works of art are intended to be experienced in isolation, you are there to focus on what you are being presented with, the work is detached from the rest of the world. Street artists felt that the gallery was too cold and elitist and by taking to the streets there is an air of freedom, it is not smothered in a sterile environment.

I think they intend their work for anyone visually aware enough to notice, but also to an audience who do not expect to be encountering art in their day-to-day lives.

These artists use the same methods as advertisers, in that they tend to hit areas that will be seen by the public, places where peoples attention will be drawn to already i.e. billboards, street signs, pedestrian crossings. I think street artists thrive off attention, being there and being noticed, searching for fame and acknowledgment.

What are the other motives behind these acts? Maybe just to entertain, to amuse, to make people look, search and engage with their work? Having your own distinct symbol or character would leave it up to the public to decipher a meaning, they want to cause a reaction and create a response. 

“If someone has had a bad day and finds one of our clothed figures on a traffic light on their way home, and it brings a smile to their face, then we have brightened up their day. Surprise and joy are our motivation.” Thundercut

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