Describe the 'style' that Kruger has used in the two presented works.
These works are simplistic ‘pop art’, magazine photographs with overlaid captions. The phrases make bold statements and use pronouns such as you and I. She places imagery with text containing criticism of cultural pressures and values.
What are some of the concepts and messages that Kruger is communicating in them?
Her phrases ask the viewer about consumerism, identity and self-worth. They explore the idea of attaining status by showing off wealth.
Do these images communicate these ideas effectively? Explain your answer.
The phrase, "I shop therefore I am", conveys effectively the extreme amount of value people often place on appearances and wealth, believing that it would be better to not exist than to be poor.
Define the concept of Mercantilism and explain how these two examples can connect with the concept.
The major trading companies in the 16th, 17th and 18th century began seeking trade for precious metals, an economic concept known as mercantilism. Because of this, merchants became very wealthy and were the first commoners to be rich. Thus began the trends of amassing wealth and showing it off to everyone else. Kruger’s work brings up the idea that owning valuable items (luxurious garment) will make YOU more valuable.
Upload a more recent example of Kruger's work where she has used a new medium, that is not graphic design. Title your image of the chosen work and comment on your response to the work. How do you think the audience would experience this work?
"Twelve" [2004]
The work I have chosen, “Twelve,” is a 4-wall video installation showing short, often angry conversations among two, three or four people. Each character’s face fills a wall and they speak to one another in an insulting manner, using profanities and common phrases one might hear in an argument. There are words and phrases scrolling along the bottom of the screens showing the actor’s thoughts and internal dialog.
To experience this work might be like walking into a play, but on the stage. You are with the actors in the direct line of their emotions and experiencing the story first hand. It is said to be annoying and confusing. I think this would emphasise the points Kruger is trying to make about power, family values, art and money.
