What is Art and what is not
- Controversial works of art (e.g. Dadaism, or those witholding negative connotations with regards to religion)?

3 statements we were supposed to come up with using the terms we listed on the board during class discussion:

1. In Art, artists express themselves through playing with concepts such as scale, shape, colours, symmetry, order, patterns and chaos.

2. Our perceptions and definitions of what is beautiful and meaningful can be shaped by our lifestyles and beliefs, such as those relating to religion.

3. Our differing perspectives and definitions of what art and beauty is has aroused much controversy over the subject of art appreciation.

My favourite statement from a classmate: "Subjectivity causes controversy."

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Some terms: Art, Authenticity, Forgery, Copy, Original, Simulacra, Simulacrum
People: Walter Benjamin (The work of Art in an age of mechanical reprduction), Andy Warhol (pop art, Marilyn Monroe)

Our Group's conclusion after researching on Andy Warhol and on the related concepts:

Simulacra does not equate to forgery or the lack of authenticity.
A simulacrum is not a form of forgery, nor does it lack authenticity.

Warhol’s works are based on the concept of simulacrum! He is interested in the simulacrum, the copy and the second-generation image. (He values this concept of mechanically reproducing his images)

Implies: Simulacra can contain some element of authenticity. Forgery does not contain authenticity.

DEFINITIONS:

Authenticity: Made in the original way; real, genuine, original. Authenticity in the ideas behind his works.

- Andy Warhol’s works contain some element of authenticity and originality.
- The level of authenticity has a direct effect on the supposed “value” of the work.
- A simulacra is hence more valuable than a forged copy of an artwork.

Forgery: The act of making a copy of something. Has a negative connotation. Forgery and authenticity are mutually exclusive.

Food for Thought:

- Did we notice any parallels between our research + group presentation and the acutal issue of concern (about Andy Warhol, authenticity, simulacra etc)?
- Our usage of technology in tha alchemy (magic?) lab to access information on the topic parallels the rise of capitalism
- Resources are also so readily available with technology. Just google "Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe" and his artwork will appear on the screen within milliseconds. Furthermore, this action can be simultaneously done on million of computers all over the world at the same time. How do we think Andy Warhol would react? >:/
- What is the value of exclusiveness in a digital age like ours?
- What is the relationship between exclusiveness and authenticity?
- So exactly what pathway are we on?
- And last of all, what does this imply for our perception of beauty?