Provocations task

MA3: Resolution and Exhibition

Interference: The Modern Muse

20.10.19

Our first task is to look at a theme and use it to create debate. In our group, we explored Entanglement, Interference and Collision. However, I had the challenge to incorporate this theme into my current practice of modern muse.

My initial thoughts were to focus on one word and use that as the basis of my argument. I chose Entanglement initially and then realised that Interference could link closer to my work.

Interfere: to interpose or intervene for a particular purpose. (Dictionary.com)

My written proposal was sent to my tutor.

Manet’s Olympia -1863

Manet as one of the first commercial artists to use women of colour in his work, with the painting Olympia

in 1863, highlighted the subservient role of the prostitutes’ servant rather an inspirational figure to aspire to.

Olympia by Manet. 1863

As a compromising and complicated relationship or situation, I  highlight the use of Modern muses such as Fanny Eaton who inspired the Pre- Raphaelite artist, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, to include her as the main subject or theme in his work. 

The subject of the invisibility of Black women is still appropriate in today’s society, where the image of the

woman of colour is easily ignored or overlooked. Addressing this issue, and colliding with the status

quo, British Vogue editor in chief  Edward Enningful and the Duchess of Sussex created an editorial of

prominent and inspirational women where the overwhelming majority were women of colour.  

The September issue of Vogue highlighting several influential women of colour

Artists then become important vehicles to interfere with the notion that Black women or women of colour

should be used as a muse rather than an ignored subject in a room?