Week 6 - Reproduction of art
"the technique of reproduction detaches the reproduced object from the domain of tradition. By making many reproductions it substitutes a plurality of copies for a unique existence. And in permitting the reproduction to meet the beholder or listener in his own particular situation, it reactivates the object reproduced. These two processes lead to a tremendous shattering of tradition which is the obverse of the contemporary crisis and renewal of mankind. Both processes are intimately connected with the contemporary mass movements."
To me, reproduction has an advantage in its potency. It can reach a larger group of people, breaking the sterotype of rich art collectors, even though it may reduce the tradition of the artwork itself. Reproduced art's magic lies in it's accessibility. You don't necessarily have to be rich or an art historian to enjoy it. Andy Warhol is a good example. His silkcreen's were made to be mass produced. They reached a larger audience and had an enormous influence on art. That's exactly what Warhol was trying to do: commercialize his work and make it accessible to everyone.
-Candice
