I enjoyed this very much. Your writing is wonderful and you handle the topic with grace. I also agree with the question of relationships vis-a-vis art and AI. I am a fiction writer, and I often wonder whether anyone will read books written by humans in ten years. But I think you touch on something really important, which is that, although most people don't think about it, they are connnecting with the artist through the work. It's not just the work. I think that's what you're saying?
Do you think I'm right? Do you think there's hope for books by humans?
That's exactly right. I think the story behind the story already matters a lot and is only going to matter more with AI. Maybe the average reader (or art viewer) doesn't know or care who the artist is, but those who move culture forward do
Nice essay. I like how you link his work with social change and the historical context of the time. Also, as a longstanding member of the Art Institute, I've seen the famous painting more times than I can count, but none of his other work.
(Minor error: Italy was unified in 1861, not 1871.)
Thank you! I found the historical context really fascinating about so I'm glad that came through. There are different ways of designating Italian unification -- some say 1861 yes, but others say it wasn't until 1871 because that's when Rome was captured and made the capital.
It's definitely worth seeing his other work while it's still there! I believe it's up through October 5.
I enjoyed this very much. Your writing is wonderful and you handle the topic with grace. I also agree with the question of relationships vis-a-vis art and AI. I am a fiction writer, and I often wonder whether anyone will read books written by humans in ten years. But I think you touch on something really important, which is that, although most people don't think about it, they are connnecting with the artist through the work. It's not just the work. I think that's what you're saying?
Do you think I'm right? Do you think there's hope for books by humans?
That's exactly right. I think the story behind the story already matters a lot and is only going to matter more with AI. Maybe the average reader (or art viewer) doesn't know or care who the artist is, but those who move culture forward do
Thank you. And thank you for the essay!
Nice essay. I like how you link his work with social change and the historical context of the time. Also, as a longstanding member of the Art Institute, I've seen the famous painting more times than I can count, but none of his other work.
(Minor error: Italy was unified in 1861, not 1871.)
Thank you! I found the historical context really fascinating about so I'm glad that came through. There are different ways of designating Italian unification -- some say 1861 yes, but others say it wasn't until 1871 because that's when Rome was captured and made the capital.
It's definitely worth seeing his other work while it's still there! I believe it's up through October 5.