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Artists Who Stare

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  Artists who Stare into their Creative Self Vignette There is a reckoning in the soul of every artist. It begins as a tremor, a flicker of light, almost imperceptible, yet relentless in hunger. That precise moment when the artist is alone, silhouetted against the radiance of an internal inferno and stares unflinchingly into their creative self. They dwell in the space between inspiration and doubt, bathed in the glow of possibilities and tormented by the fear of mediocrity. To exceed the ordinary, the artist knows, is both a blessing and a curse. Each touch, each word, each act of creation becomes a paradox: an offering to eternity but rooted in the fleeting frailty of the present. What if they fail? What if the light within, so achingly bright, burns them to ash rather than illuminating their path? The act of creation is no longer a choice; it has become a necessity. There is no turning back. Like a lone figure before the furnace of their own making, the artist surrenders to the ...

The Son of Man

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  Rene Magritte The Son of Man Immerse yourself in "The Son of Man," by Renay Magrette. This outstanding artwork captures the essence of Surrealism. The green apple is not just an apple but a vibrant beacon attracting mystery and intrigue. Its rich, green hue and perfect roundness evoke curiosity. Question yourself. What do you think is concealed beneath? The suited figure and the obscured face suggest a rigid but boundless identity. The formality of his attire contrasts with the absence of his face. Suggesting the complexity of layers that form our workplace identity. Then there's the backdrop. A moody sky and a steadfast brick wall set the dramatic stage of concealment and revelation. They form an atmosphere of introspection that further accentuates the mystery. "The Son of Man" is a compelling masterpiece, a visual puzzle that invites us to question reality and perception. It's a mesmerizing artwork that sparks our human curiosity. Art Review Short  If yo...

The Unseen Shadows

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  In The Unseen Shadows, the viewer is presented with a thought-provoking exploration of the psychological inter-relationship of creativity. This artwork delves into the role of subconscious emotional traits as a catalyst for malevolent creativity, shedding light on the unseen shadows that can influence our positioning to enact creativity.  The portrait that emerges from this is both compelling and paradoxical. On the one hand, creativity is often celebrated for its positive impact, but on the other hand, it can also be shrouded in malevolent shadows. The artwork seeks to correlate the inferences between powerful and regressive symbols of harmful creativity with cognitive and motivational facets of the grip fueled by creativity's darker side. The intricate dance of shadows draws on Plato's cave allegory, with oppression acting as a distorted puppeteer that can cast a veil of gloom over our cognitive impulses.  The emotional aspects can cast a unique shadow by continually ...

21st Augmented Man

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  As you stand in front of the portrait of the augmented man, carefully crafted to challenge assumptions and provoke discussion about art's place in social media, you may find yourself caught amid an ever-evolving cultural debate. The prevalence of algorithmic influence and mass opinion can sway our political beliefs and shape the narratives we accept, leading us to question the patterns we see before us.  Depending on your biases and assumptions, the portrait may represent either a symbol of empowerment or containment. It is intended to be twofold. This raises an important question: when does an image cease to exist as a simple work of art and become a calculated weapon designed to sway public opinion and manipulate your emotions? The augmented man portrait is a poignant statement on the power of art as a political tool. This discussion remains relevant even in the age of social media and the traditions of our ongoing culture wars. 21st Augmented Man Video The vision of the a...

Ghosts of Memories Past

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  When you look at this portrait of a man who has been purposely demonized, you may find that your own personal biases and historical distortions come into play. How you interpret his sombre features and haunting eyes may be tainted by your own experiences and the childhood and adult stories you've been told and seen about this type of person. As you look at the portrait, you may see a villain or a victim, depending on your biases and preconceptions. This means the picture is not just a static image but an intended reflection to trigger your attitudes and memories. The portrait's purpose is to remind us how media can call on imprinted memory to influence how we see and understand others. Ghosts of Memories Past Video The portrait depicts a demonized man. Personal biases and historical distortions may come into play when viewing the portrait. Personal experiences and stories may influence the interpretation of the man's features. Some may see the man as a villain, while othe...

Innovative Leaders need Creative Artists

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 Consider THIS Gatekeeper Gatekeepers in the art world determine what art is exhibited and made available to the public. Gatekeepers include curators, gallerists, collectors, critics, and other art industry professionals. Museums, galleries, and cultural institutions are often considered the primary Gatekeepers. Curators play an influential role in selecting and organizing exhibitions. As an independent artist, it is essential to recognize and consider the influence of these Gatekeepers. Botticelli Gatekeepers The Medici family played a significant role in shaping the art and culture of the Renaissance period and were critical patrons of the Arts in Florence. Botticelli and other Renaissance artists navigated the values and expectations of their patrons to maintain financial support and avoid falling out of favour. Botticelli's famous paintings, The Birth of Venus and Primavera, were sponsored by the Medici family and demonstrate their classical influence. The church also significa...

21st Synthesis Man

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  The Synthesis Man is a true visionary, a master of collaboration and connection. He understood that success is not achieved through individual efforts alone but rather through the ability to bring together diverse ideas, perspectives, and resources to create something more significant than the sum of its parts. The ability to harness the potential of others and work towards shared goals is a skill that sets the Synthesis Man apart from the instinctual superior.  21st Synthesis Man Video https://jjfbbennett.taplink.ws/ John Bennett - AKA JJFBbennett is an independent artist. You can subscribe to JJFB's work via Blogger , YouTube , Flicker , Facebook , Instagram and Deviant Art .  If you want to support his art creation, you can sponsor JJFBbennett through PayPal here or a subscription via Patreon here . If you want to acquire JJFB's art creations as an NFT - John's Opensea NFT profile is https://opensea.io/JJFBbennett   Be Creative and Innovative with Kno...

Moments of Standing Waiting Thinking Remembering

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  Moments of Standing, Waiting, Thinking and Remembering Vignette As I stood here, waiting for something to happen, my mind began to wander. Memories of the past flooded my thoughts, and I couldn't help but feel a longing for what could have been. But as the sun set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, I also felt grateful for where I have been and where I am next to be. Reflecting on my good and bad experiences, I realized that life's enrichment is about standing, waiting, thinking and remembering. It's about taking the time to appreciate the present and dream about the future. Finding beauty in the mundane, joy in the struggles, and hope in the darkness. That moment of standing there, lost in thought, will stay with me forever. It reminds me of life's complexity and the importance of reflecting. As the sky darkened and it was time to move on, I carried that feeling, knowing that no matter what the future holds, I will always have these moments to remind me ...

Artist Statement When Who Where

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Artist Statement When, Who, Where This House Decides and Path of Convenience  (transcript) These two works of art published in 2019 capture the essence of the artist's journey, inviting viewers to reflect on their paths, challenge the familiar, and seek more profound connections with the world around them. The intent is to be thought-provoking to prompt meaningful dialogue and invites transformative experiences for all who engage with the artwork. The artworks employ abstract content and commercialised headers. I am speaking as an avatar of JJFBbennett. My artistic practice explores the transformative power of disrupting the path of convenience. Through my work, I invite viewers to stop looking down and instead direct their gaze upwards and across the horizon. Drawing inspiration from a pivotal moment, I realized the importance of shifting perceptual perspective. Just as I looked up from what was once remarkable and secure, my art aims to challenge conventional norms and expectatio...