Originality Vs Authenticity
Look at the definition of originality below and ask yourself – is it possible to be original?
Originality: It exists for the first time ever. Nothing precedes it. It is the root node.
In other words, to be truly original you would not have been able to have been influenced by any of your surroundings.
“Lets not forget Mother Nature. She is the true artist, we are just the cooks” (Marco Pierre White)
Many argue that the pursuit of originality is just a tool to make money. Throughout time people have been sharing ideas and practicing what others do. However, it is in the interest of business that our culture tells people that artistic ability is innate (born into a person). This is not true for all cultures around the world. In other cultures, art is just a way of life. Below is an image of a child learning Balinese Gamelan music. With western influence this tradition is beginning to disappear
“Art is a process, not a product” (maryann kohl)
Everything is a Remix
https://youtu.be/zd-dqUuvLk4
Before examining authenticity lets look at an example of a remixes that let to other remixes which led to other remixes.
The song that seeded the other compositions I’m about to show you was Cola Bottle Baby by Edwin Birdsong
If you are a Daft Punk fan, then you may have recognized the main riff
If you are a Kanye West fan then you many have recognized the lyrical hook
Notice that Kanye’s piece does not resemble Edwin Birdsong’s composition. However, without Edwin’s song then arguably Kanye’s piece would not exist. A lot of people argue that remixing should not be limited because it stifles progression. In other words, if everyone simply tried to be original then nothing would evolve. My belief that both learning and creating are always remixes.
Remixing Taken Too Far?
One of the most famous songs/ performances to come out of the American civil rights movement was Nina Simone’s performance of ‘Strange Fruit’ written by Abel Meeropol
Here is the story behind the lyrics
Knowing the history of the song, do you think that this remix is appropriate?
Authenticity
My argument for this course will be that the pursuit of originality is impossible because you must ignore all influences in your life. It hinders creativity and stifles progress. Instead, great art should be measure by how much you enjoy the process. This can only be done if your pursuit is authentic. Meaning what you are doing is relevant to your self. It isn’t something that you are only trying to do because you know it will make the most money.
“To be authentic, we must cultivate the courage to be imperfect — and vulnerable. We have to believe that we are fundamentally worthy of love and acceptance, just as we are. I’ve learned that there is no better way to invite more grace, gratitude and joy into our lives than by mindfully practicing authenticity.”— Brené Brown