The Art of Exploration: A Manifesto for Creative Curiosity

As a curator of the arts, I believe that the essence of art lies in exploration, in the search for meaning, and in the curiosity to engage with the world around us. In my blog, I have explored a diverse range of artistic expressions, from visual arts to music, cinema, and literature. However, what unites these works is not their form or style, but rather their capacity to spark curiosity, to question assumptions, and to inspire new perspectives.

The chief value that I seek to promote through this manifesto is creative curiosity. By this, I mean the willingness to engage with the unfamiliar, the willingness to explore diverse forms of expression, and the willingness to question established norms and assumptions. I believe that creative curiosity is not only essential for artistic expression but is also a crucial aspect of personal and social growth.

At the same time, I recognize that creative curiosity is often stifled by societal pressures, including the pressures to conform, to follow established norms, and to seek easy answers. Therefore, this manifesto opposes any form of dogmatism, authoritarianism, or narrow-mindedness that threatens to stifle curiosity and creativity.

To illustrate the importance of creative curiosity, I would like to draw upon five examples from my blog that embody this value.

The first example is the painting "Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh. This painting is not only an expression of the artist's personal struggles but also a celebration of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Through his use of color and form, van Gogh invites us to see the world anew, to appreciate the complexity and richness of the world around us. The painting exemplifies the importance of curiosity, the willingness to engage with the world, and the capacity to see beauty in unexpected places.

The second example is the song "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke. This song is a powerful expression of the civil rights movement, but it is also a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and hope. By acknowledging the pain and struggle of the present while pointing towards a better future, Cooke's song embodies the importance of curiosity, the willingness to question established norms, and the capacity to imagine a better world.

The third example is the film "Moonlight" by Barry Jenkins. This film is a profound exploration of identity, sexuality, and personal growth. Through its three-act structure, its stunning cinematography, and its nuanced portrayal of complex characters, "Moonlight" invites us to see the world from a perspective that is often marginalized in mainstream culture. The film exemplifies the importance of curiosity, the willingness to explore diverse perspectives, and the capacity to empathize with others.

The fourth example is from the public art assignment before this assignment I saw a beautiful work of art in fort Myers. I saw an eagle carved from a tree. After exploring this work of art I learned of a beautiful story that turned a dying tree into a amazing work of art that will last a lifetime. This particular example just shows that there is always more to art than what you see at the surface. This work encourages viewers to explore the story of the piece to gain better understanding.

The final example The abstract painting untitled 2013 nasrollah afjei. This work of art may not look like much other than a large amount of wavy lines but when one takes a deeper look into this painting they see that it is made up of the word love. The artwork showcases the significance of being curious, having an open-mindedness to explore varying viewpoints, and possessing the ability to perceive love amidst ambiguity.

In conclusion, the Art of Exploration is a manifesto for creative curiosity, a call to embrace the unknown, to question established norms, and to celebrate diversity and complexity. As a curator of the arts, I have learned that art is not just about creating beautiful things, but also about exploring the world, engaging with others, and discovering new perspectives. By promoting creative curiosity, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery, to find beauty in unexpected places, and to imagine a better world.

For this assignment, I have chosen Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night" painting.

Ekphrasis of "The Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh:

A blue-black sky swirls with silver light, As if the stars themselves have come alive. A crescent moon hangs low, a brilliant sight, Illuminating the sleepy village below.

A mighty cypress tree stands tall and proud, Reaching for the heavens with every branch. Its leaves a flurry of green and brown, Dancing in the cool, crisp night air.

The rooftops of the village huddle close, A sanctuary from the vastness of the sky. Their glowing windows like warm beacons, Guiding the weary traveler home.

A winding road leads through the fields, A pathway to the peace of slumber. But above it all, the stars hold sway, A reminder of the infinite wonder.

Justification:

Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night" is a famous painting that captures the beauty of the night sky. In my ekphrasis, I attempted to preserve the original painting's essence by focusing on the vivid colors and swirling shapes that make up the sky. I also wanted to convey the sense of awe and wonder that the painting inspires in me, so I used language that is dreamy and almost mystical.

To capture the mood and feeling of the painting, I focused on the contrasts between the light and dark elements, such as the silver stars against the blue-black sky and the warm windows of the village against the cool night air. I also tried to convey the sense of movement and energy that the painting possesses, using phrases like "swirls with silver light" and "a flurry of green and brown."

In terms of replicating the visual details, I focused on describing the essential elements of the painting, such as the cypress tree and the village rooftops. I tried to capture the painting's details as accurately as possible while also adding my interpretation and imagination to the scene.

Overall, my ekphrasis brings a new understanding of the painting's emotional impact, emphasizing the sense of wonder and beauty that it evokes. It also adds a sense of movement and energy to the static image, bringing the scene to life in a new way.

The video "Three Transitions" by Peter Campus is a three-part video installation that explores the possibilities of video as an art form. The video is composed of three separate segments, each displaying a different manipulation of image and sound. The first part features a close-up of a person's face as the image is distorted and fragmented through a series of digital effects. The second part presents a blurred image of a man walking down a street, while the sound of his footsteps becomes increasingly amplified. The third part is slow-motion footage of a tennis ball bouncing on a court, accompanied by a hypnotic soundtrack.

The video seems to be exploring the potential of video as a medium that can create sensory and perceptual experiences that go beyond traditional storytelling. It invites the viewer to consider the artistic possibilities of video technology and how it can be used to manipulate and transform our perception of reality. The video appears to be commenting on the transformative power of technology and how it can be used to create new ways of experiencing the world.

The video's use of sound and image manipulation suggests a critique of traditional narrative structures and linear storytelling. Instead, the video encourages the viewer to engage with the sensory experience of the moving image and to allow their perception to be transformed by the video's digital effects. The video's abstract imagery and lack of narrative structure allow the viewer to engage with it on a more intuitive and emotional level, encouraging a more direct and immediate response to the work.

In comparison to other art forms, "Three Transitions" can be compared to abstract paintings, where the focus is on the manipulation of color, shape, and texture to create an emotional response in the viewer. Similarly, the video's use of sound and image manipulation creates a sensory experience that is meant to evoke an emotional response in the viewer.

In terms of challenging or expanding our understanding of television, "Three Transitions" is a departure from traditional television programming. The video's lack of a clear narrative structure and its use of sensory manipulation challenge the viewer to engage with the work differently. The video asks the viewer to approach it as a piece of visual art rather than as a form of entertainment or information. As such, the video expands our understanding of the possibilities of moving images and challenges us to engage with video technology in a new and more meaningful way.

Act 3 Scene 2 of Hamlet is a pivotal moment in the play where Hamlet confronts Ophelia about his conflicted feelings toward her and women in general. The scene begins with Ophelia entering and attempting to return some of Hamlet's love letters. Hamlet, who is already on edge and grappling with his own doubts and fears, becomes frustrated and angry when he realizes Ophelia is acting as a pawn for her father and the king.

Hamlet's speech to Ophelia in this scene is famous for its use of double entendres and wordplay. When he tells Ophelia to "get thee to a nunnery," he is using the word "nunnery" to mean both a convent and a brothel. This double meaning reflects Hamlet's conflicted feelings about women and sex. He is torn between his desire for Ophelia and his mistrust of women, which is amplified by the betrayal he feels from his own mother, who married his uncle so soon after his father's death.

In this scene, Hamlet also grapples with his own identity and sense of self. He asks Ophelia if she thinks he is "easier to be played on than a pipe," revealing his fear that others see him as weak and malleable. This fear is rooted in his own doubts about his ability to carry out his revenge on his uncle, and his frustration with the political machinations and betrayals that surround him.

Throughout the scene, Ophelia attempts to reason with Hamlet and understand his emotions, but he ultimately lashes out at her and rejects her. This moment marks a turning point in their relationship, as Hamlet's anger and mistrust cause irreparable damage.

The staging of this scene is crucial in conveying the emotions and tensions between the characters. Actors must navigate the complex language and metaphors to bring the scene to life. The physicality of the actors is also important, as their movements and gestures can emphasize the emotions and power dynamics at play.

In conclusion, Act 3 Scene 2 of Hamlet is a powerful and complex moment in the play that reveals the inner turmoil of Hamlet's character and the complexities of his relationships with women. The scene is rich in language and symbolism, and its staging can greatly affect its impact on audiences.

Casablanca is a classic 1942 American film directed by Michael Curtiz, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Set in the Moroccan city of Casablanca during World War II, the movie follows Rick Blaine (Bogart), an American expatriate and the owner of a popular nightclub, as he navigates through the political turmoil and his past love life. When Rick's former lover Ilsa Lund (Bergman) enters the city with her husband, a resistance leader, Rick is torn between his love for her and his desire to help the resistance movement.

Casablanca is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, primarily because of its powerful storytelling, witty dialogue, and memorable performances. The film's pacing is masterful, with each scene building on the tension and emotional stakes of the previous one. The use of close-ups, medium shots, and wide shots creates a sense of intimacy and distance that draws the viewer into the story. The famous airport scene at the end of the movie, where Rick and Ilsa say goodbye, is a great example of how the technical details contribute to the overall dramatic effect of the film. The fog, lighting, and music all heighten the sense of sadness and regret, making it a memorable and emotional moment in film history.

Lost in Translation is a 2003 film written and directed by Sofia Coppola, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson. The movie follows the unlikely friendship that develops between Bob Harris (Murray), a washed-up American actor in Tokyo to shoot a whiskey commercial, and Charlotte (Johansson), a young woman accompanying her photographer husband. The film explores themes of loneliness, alienation, and cultural disconnection in a foreign land.

One scene that stands out in Lost in Translation is the karaoke scene, where Bob and Charlotte sing "More Than This" by Roxy Music. The scene is shot in a wide angle, with both characters standing at opposite ends of the frame, emphasizing the distance between them. The cuts between close-ups of their faces, the lyrics on the screen, and the crowd dancing and singing along create a sense of immersion and connectivity. The lighting is dim and blue, creating a melancholic and introspective mood. Murray's deadpan delivery and Johansson's earnestness add to the comedic and emotional effect of the scene.

The karaoke scene is a pivotal moment in the movie, as it marks the beginning of Bob and Charlotte's deeper connection and mutual understanding. The lyrics of the song, "More Than This," also reflect the film's themes of searching for meaning and connection in a world that seems chaotic and disorienting. The scene's structure, lighting, direction, and acting all contribute to the overall effect, making it a memorable and poignant moment in the film.

Theme: Nature's Wonders

Nature is a constant source of inspiration and wonder. From majestic mountains to the smallest of creatures, the beauty of nature is all around us. This photo collection seeks to capture the awe-inspiring wonders of nature, from the grand landscapes to the smallest details. Through these images, I hope to showcase the power and beauty of the natural world and inspire viewers to appreciate and protect our planet.

"The Mighty Mountain" - A photograph of a majestic mountain range in the distance. The scale of the mountains against the vastness of the sky reminds us of the power and beauty of nature.

"The Flowing River" - A picture of a river flowing through a rocky landscape. The movement of the water and the contrast of the rocks creates a sense of tranquility and harmony.

"The Serene Lake" - A photograph of a serene lake surrounded by trees with fall foliage. The stillness of the water reflects the vibrant colors of the trees, creating a sense of calm and beauty.

"The Beautiful Sunset" - A photograph of a stunning sunset with a vibrant orange and pink sky. Sunsets are a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world and the cycle of day and night.

"The Decaying Structure" - A picture of a decaying structure in the woods. The remnants of human construction, slowly being overtaken by nature, serve as a reminder of the impermanence of human creations and the power of the natural world to reclaim what was once its own.

In conclusion, the wonders of nature are all around us, from the grandest landscapes to the smallest details. Through these images, we are reminded of the power and beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The beauty of nature is a reminder to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and find inspiration in the world around us.

For my themed playlist, I have chosen the theme of "journey." This theme is relevant to me because I love to travel and explore new places. Additionally, I believe that life itself is a journey, full of twists and turns, ups and downs, and unexpected detours. The unifying idea behind this playlist is the idea of movement, whether it be physical or emotional.

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey (Rock) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k8craCGpgs This classic rock anthem is the perfect starting point for my playlist. The song's driving beat and soaring melody evokes the feeling of embarking on a great adventure. The song's structure is simple, with a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus format. The chord progression is fairly simple, centered around the key of E major. The lyrics are full of hope and optimism, urging the listener to "hold on to that feeling" of possibility and excitement.

"Route 66" by Nat King Cole (Jazz) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCYApJtsyd0 This jazz standard celebrates the iconic American highway that stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles. The song's swinging rhythm and bluesy melody evoke the feeling of cruising down an open road. The song's structure is based on a 12-bar blues progression, with a simple AAB form. The lyrics describe the landmarks and attractions along Route 66, such as St. Louis, Joplin, and Oklahoma City.

"Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys (Hip Hop/Rap) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vk6014HuxcE This hip-hop anthem pays tribute to New York City, the ultimate destination for many dreamers and strivers. The song's melody is based on a sample from the 1970 song "Love on a Two-Way Street" by The Moments. The song's structure is fairly complex, with a chorus that changes slightly each time it appears, as well as several verses that tell the story of Jay-Z's rise to fame in the Big Apple. The lyrics are full of references to New York landmarks and culture, from Yankee Stadium to Broadway.

"Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver (Country) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vrEljMfXYo This country classic celebrates the beauty and simplicity of rural life. The song's melody is based on a simple chord progression in the key of A major. The song's structure is straightforward, with a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus format. The lyrics describe the landscape and culture of West Virginia, where Denver grew up. The song has a nostalgic and wistful tone as if the singer is longing to return to a simpler time and place.

"Homeward Bound" by Simon & Garfunkel (Folk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAnj2fyjxRw This folk ballad tells the story of a traveler who is longing to return home. The song's melody is based on a simple acoustic guitar riff, which repeats throughout the song. The song's structure is based on a verse-chorus-verse-chorus format, with a brief instrumental break between the second and third verses. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery, describing the sights and sounds of the journey, as well as the yearning for the comfort of home.

"On the Road Again" by Willie Nelson (Blues/Country) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBN86y30Ufc This country-blues classic celebrates the joys of life on the road. The song's melody is based on a simple chord progression in the key of C major. The song's structure is based on a verse-chorus-verse-chorus format, with a brief instrumental break between the second and third verses. The lyrics describe the excitement and adventure of touring and performing, as well as the camaraderie of the musicians on the road.

In conclusion, my playlist showcases a diverse range of genres and musical styles, all tied together through the theme journey.

As I entered the small café on the corner, the scent of freshly brewed coffee enveloped me. The barista greeted me with a warm smile and I ordered my usual cappuccino. As I waited, I observed the customers around me, their conversations buzzing in my ears. Suddenly, my attention was drawn to a commotion near the counter. A woman, her face contorted in frustration, was arguing with the barista about her order. She demanded to speak to the manager, and as the situation escalated, other customers began to stare. Eventually, the manager arrived and diffused the situation, but the atmosphere in the café was now tense. As I received my cappuccino, I couldn't help but feel grateful that I had avoided the chaos. But as I sipped my drink and left the café, I couldn't shake the feeling that situations like this were more common than I thought.

My Species 

Launch Audio in a New Window

BY JANE HIRSHFIELD

even

a small purple artichoke

boiled

in its own bittered

and darkening

waters

grows tender,

grows tender and sweet

patience, I think,

my species

keep testing the spiny leaves

the spiny heart

Source: Poetry (January 2015)

I belong to a species that's always busy, always hurrying. We're always striving for more, always wanting what's next, and never really satisfied with what we have. We're always reaching for the stars, but we forget to appreciate the beauty that's right in front of us. We're always running towards the future, but we forget to cherish the present moment.

Now, what makes this poem aesthetic is the way that Hershfield uses language to create an image in our minds. She paints a picture of a species that's always moving, always striving, and never stopping to enjoy the moment. This central image is reinforced by the use of metaphors and symbols, such as "reaching for the stars" and "running towards the future."

In terms of the "Terms to Remember" list from the module's lecture presentation, I would say that this poem involves the use of imagery, metaphor, and symbol. Hershfield creates an image in our minds of a species that's always in motion, using metaphors like "reaching for the stars" to describe our constant desire for more. She also uses symbols, such as the idea of "cherishing the present moment," to convey a deeper meaning.

There is also an element of consonance in this poem, which is the repetition of consonant sounds. For example, the phrase "always striving" repeats the "s" sound, creating a pleasing sound pattern.

As for the narrator, the poem doesn't have a specific one, but rather speaks to all of us as members of this species. The use of the first-person plural pronoun "we" creates a sense of unity, as if we are all in this together.

Overall, "My Species" is a poignant and thought-provoking poem that encourages us to slow down and appreciate the world around us. It uses powerful language and vivid imagery to convey a message that is both universal and deeply personal.

The domestic space I chose is the house i live in my parents home. It serves its functions as a domestic space as myself and the rest of my family live here. The space is divided in many different ways when you first walk in there is a sitting room and you can see the dining room a head of you if you go forward the kitchen is on the left and the main family room is ahead if you go to the left you go down the hallway to bathroom and bed rooms. The division of the spaces is achieved by having large family space and personal areas like the bedrooms divided from the rest of it. The space is definitely homey and welcoming lime I said before when you first walk in is an open space divided from personal areas. There are parts that can seem cramped its not a huge house but mostly feels open and very comfortable. It is very bright with lots of natural and artificial light. It is not rundown but does feel in need of change in some parts. I wouldn't say it is unique because it is similar to other homes in the sense of the space.

The other space I chose is my church. It is a very large building which is very open. This building is used for many different things including church, meeting, voting, and many other things. Its structured with several large open rooms. In a way it is similar to the domestic space as it is welcoming and bright but it is very different in that it is large and open. The domestic space is smaller and sectioned off. They both achieve their goals but in different ways the domestic space is separated to achieve many goals and the other space is open to achieve its goal.

In down town Fort Myers in front of the old court house on main street stands a chainsaw sculpture of an American bald eagle. The American Bald Eagle carved by Marlin Miller in 2011 after being commissioned by Lee County. Originally a very large oak tree stood in front of the court house that tree being a beloved landmark of the town. The large oak was determined to be over 225 years old when it was infested with termites in 2001. The tree became dangerous so the county spent large amounts of money to reinforce the tree which lasted until 2010 when large limbs started to fall from it. The county then cut the tree down. The plaque in front of the sculpture states it was suggested that the trunk and base of the tree be used to immortalize the landmark that had stood for so long. A year later the county commissioned Marlin Miller, and have him create from the tree the very symbol of Liberty, an American Eagle in flight. Before you flies his magnificent creation, guarding forever the work done for our citizens at the center of government. Marlin Miller asked for nothing more than the county to cover his out of pocket expenses and nothing more and a hot summer day chainsaw in hand he began his work and just 5 days latter he created the image that is shown above. An eye witness told me several years later I cannot tell the exact date a county truck and trailer pulled up to the courthouse and removed the statue and for several weeks no one was happy with the disappearance until a couple of weeks later it returned coated in well I'm not quite sure but so it would last for generations to come.

This sculpture is not only amazing but has an absolutely amazing story to go along with it. As tragic as it was that the tree had to be removed the public thought that that one tree was so important something had to be done. This two story tall statue depicts what the public views as liberty and freedom. This sculpture stand just as tall as the court house it stands center stage in front of all its surrounding it is impossible not to notice.

The abstract painting, I chose is untitled 2013 nasrollah afjei. In this painting, Afjei has repeated the Persian word eshq (which means love) over and over. Repeating this word over and over impairs our ability to read and instead depicts a wave like motion flowing across the canvas. The reason I chose this abstract work is because of the way the image flows, when I looked at the other abstract works, they looked sharp, harsh, and jagged this painting is smooth. When first looking at this painting it looked as if it were a smooth wave like image using different colored lines to flow across the page but after reading the description and learning that it was in fact the word for love it changed the way I viewed it. Using repetition as this piece does the many words blending together, creates a marbling affect on this piece they create different lines that flow like a wave. By using the word love to create art it not only shows that just anything can be art, but it shows something deeper when love is brought together it can create something beautiful. When I look at this image I see so  many different things the grains of sand in a dessert flowing, a field of grain blowing in the wind, a mighty ocean with flowing waves. What I do not see is the word love but that’s what it is made from. Love is the hidden beauty in this work of art.

The work of art I chose is the children's story Roy the Toxic Boy by Tim Burton. This story tells the life of a boy named Roy who is very much not like the rest. Roy does not like the things other children like in fact he likes the opposite. Roy likes the things that are in fact harmful to children ammonia, asbestos, cigarette smoke and so much more. Roy liked to breathe these toxic fumes, Roy liked to go into the garage when the car was starting and breathe from the tailpipe. Roy breathed in all these toxic fumes until one day he was put into the garden for fresh air. Roy’s first breathe of fresh air was his last breathe at all. Who knew breathing in fresh air could kill, so the story says. This story appeals to me because it is different, it’s the opposite of what you would expect to see in a children's story. This story speaks to me because it doesn’t follow the standard or normal template of a story. Stories for children almost always start with once upon a time and end with happily ever after but this story is the complete opposite. When I look at art or read stories, I don’t enjoy standard art I enjoy what’s out of the ordinary and frankly just strange and that’s why this speaks to me. When you take a deeper look into the story you see that while breathing in the things that are toxic Roy is fine but once Roy breathed in what is good for everybody else, he died. This shows to me an example of how something can be good for one person but not for another. Every human is different we do not all live the same lives what’s good for you might not be good for me and I just think that is a powerful message.

About Me

My Name is Luke Hitchcock I am on Tumblr for my Humanities class that I am taking at FSW. I have been at FSW for 3 years now having taken 5 semesters. I am working towards a degree in business administration and marketing. I currently work in retail working for the Boy Scouts of America. I work in the store and am a very active volunteer. I very much enjoy my time in the Scouts and am working towards my degree to have a career in the BSA. Having a career that benefits so many peoples lives is one of the best things i could ask for.