Knockout Artist (high quality)
Art is created simultaneously as I take abuse in the ring (many different metaphors for that). The painting is an easily recognizable symbol of Art…and an Art historical one. Performance Art is Art in itself, so by making Art during a performance piece…I am commenting on the abusive nature of Art making…Art about Art.
The Knockout Artist has a spring loaded mechanical arm powered by 3 spring strength levels: Heavywieght, middleweight, lightweight. There are 4 different kinds of punches and 15 to 20 contraption like brushed. Once the punch strength, style, and brush have been selected…I stand behind the canvas & easel and trip the release. At the same time I am being punched in the face the brush is striking the canvas. Over the course of 12 three minute rounds I create an abstract Action Painting.
Many artists torment their bodies and minds to realize an artistic vision. I got burned, bruised, stabbed, sliced, broken, cut, smashed, ridiculed, punched, criticized, and generally abused to bring the Knockout Artist to life, and so what I suffer in the ring is but a small price to pay…for my art.
This sculpture/performance can be seen as an homage and a mockery of a style of painting labeled Abstract Action Painting. The style was popularized in the 50’s & 60’s by proponents, critic Clement Greenberg and painter Jackson Pollack.
Like art-making for many artists, during the performance I will be in competition with myself, my art, & environment to realize an artistic end.
Copyright 1999.
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