Science Of The Mind 2012

Adam Caldwell's painting "Science Of The Mind" combines traditional painting with what appears to be spray paint. The artist uses both to create contrasting effects and explore themes of labor and class. The laborious process of traditional painting is evident in the realistically rendered figures of soldiers. The paint is applied smoothly and precisely, creating a sense of depth and solidity. In contrast, the spray paint appears hastily applied, creating a sense of immediacy. In effect, we see a contrast between the precision, labor, and tradition of classic painting on the one hand, and the freehand gesture of graffiti and other media on the other. By layering these two ways of working, the artist is asking us to consider how we value different kinds of artistic labor and different social classes. Paying attention to materials and making helps us understand the full meaning of "Science Of The Mind," challenging distinctions between high art and craft.