Artist Quote by Kerry James Marshall
“Artwork operates on two different levels: On one level there's artwork as a mode of expressivity, and then there's the other side, where the image is a construction that is meant to engage in a discursive field in order to preform a particular function.”
About This Quote
The description outlines that artwork can be both expressive and a constructed discourse tool serving specific functions, highlighting dual roles of art.
In simple terms: Art can express feelings and also serve a purposeful, communicative function.
Key Takeaway
Recognize both emotional and functional aspects of visual art.
Themes
art theory
expression
communication
functionality
critical discourse
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
critical
Type
theoretical
practical
When to use this quote
- gallery curation
- advertising
- political murals
- educational materials
Key Concepts
aesthetics
semiotics
social commentary
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a piece balance expression and purpose?
- When does function outweigh aesthetic?
A Different Perspective
It may reduce complex artistic intent to a binary view.
![“In [Ralph] Ellison's case, it's more psychological than it is phenomenal, and it's conditioned by anger, animosity, and lack of desire to engage with the black body. There was always simultaneity that had nothing to do with visuality. You can be there and not be there at the same time and be fully…” quote by Kerry James Marshall](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a13/kerry-james-marshall-5157_animosity_in-ralph-ellison-s-case-it-s-more-psycho_338598.jpg)
