Comings and goings 1965

Editor: This is "Comings and Goings" by Jean Dubuffet, created in 1965 using mixed media. It feels like peering into a bustling city from above, yet it's also quite abstract. What do you see in this piece, especially concerning its historical and cultural implications? Curator: What strikes me is how Dubuffet is challenging traditional notions of beauty and representation. Coming from post-war France, there's a definite sense of questioning societal norms. This work, with its seemingly random, organic patterns, can be interpreted as a reflection on the chaos and complexity of modern life. The title itself, "Comings and Goings," reinforces this idea of constant movement and flux, typical of urban existence, right? Editor: Absolutely! It feels very ‘of its time’ somehow. How do you think the use of mixed media contributes to the meaning? Curator: The use of mixed media is significant because it moves away from the polished perfection often associated with high art. Dubuffet embraced raw, unconventional materials, a move which directly challenged the art establishment. He sought to depict the "real" world, unfiltered and unrefined, thus granting visibility to what society often overlooked. Is that something that resonates with you? Editor: It does. I guess it's easy to see how a reaction against established norms can emerge during periods of social change and instability. What do you make of the absence of a clear focal point? Curator: Its deliberate lack of a focal point mirrors the disorientation and decentralization prevalent in modern urban environments. We’re forced to confront the overwhelming nature of the cityscape. Dubuffet's art was intended to provoke reaction. Does that connection with the ‘everyman’ change how you appreciate it? Editor: It definitely enriches my understanding. I can see it more as social commentary now, rather than pure abstraction. Curator: Exactly. Art like this reveals much about its cultural moment and encourages viewers to actively engage with social narratives. Editor: I've definitely got a new perspective on this artwork. It's far more than just a pattern. Curator: And I'm reminded of the profound influence social and political upheavals have on artistic expression.