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The art of authenticity

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  The Struggle for Authenticity in Art I want to speak today about authenticity . And about what we quietly give up to be accepted. We’re told that contemporary political art values autonomy . That artists are free. That inquiry sits at the centre of practice. But autonomy, in reality, is often something we *perform*— not something we’re allowed to exercise. Freedom is celebrated rhetorically, while legitimacy is granted only when work conforms to approved languages , approved theories , approved causes . Autonomy isn’t denied outright. It’s curated. This system doesn’t fail artists by accident. It functions mechanically. It rewards work that aligns with predetermined frameworks and filters out work that doesn’t speak the sanctioned dialect . Many voices are excluded not because they lack skill or meaning, but because they refuse to translate their experience into institutionally legible language. I’m not saying all excluded work is good. I am saying much of it is never heard. An...
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Converging Traffic Manila

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Converging Traffic in Manila poem

I am a passenger entering Manila. 

The complexity of the city's carriageways and lanes is both bewildering and fascinating. 

I gaze out, trying to make sense.

Through the web of intricate pathways. 

The traffic is fluid; however, I experience it as chaotic.

My driver remains steadfast as vehicles converge and exit. 

Intuitively understanding this dynamic system. 

Balancing the collective's expectations with our personal needs.

I trust him as he orchestrates our safe path through.


Converging Traffic and Apparition in Manila


I err on the side of detecting threats in ambiguous situations.

Crossroads of the past, present and future


Convergence of Traffic and Apparition
As I sit in traffic, the air in Manila feels thick, with countless engines and people going about their day. I find myself staring out of the windshield, taking in the vibrant scene of city life. Within the chaos, I sought refuge from the uncertain situation. 

Suddenly, amidst the honking and the hustle, I notice a figure. It seems almost ghostly, gliding effortlessly above the cars and people. This apparition feels like a manifestation of my anxiety and the rich history of Manila. It's as if the city's past has been woven into my present reality. 

The figure appears to float gracefully, transcending into a bright future. It's as if this apparition bridges what was, what is, and what is yet to come. For a fleeting moment, I feel a deep connection to the essence of Manila, as seen through this apparition amidst the city's ever-moving pace.





JJFBbennett



John Bennett - AKA JJFBbennett, is an independent artist. You can subscribe to JJFB's work via Blogger, YouTube, Flicker, Facebook, Instagram and Deviant Art. 

To support his art creation, you can sponsor JJFBbennett through PayPal 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  

Copyright

This artwork is protected by U.S. and International copyright laws. Distribution and/or modification of the artwork without written permission of the sponsor is prohibited.

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