history does matter
Why do we bother with history? Here's my reasons why it is important to me as an artist and how I approach it.
History does matter. It connects us to the present. Gives us a foundation for the future. History helps us appreciate what we have today. Gain a better understanding of our culture.
History can be boring. Artists can enliven the engagement of the subject. They can bring new thinking and a fresh approach within a contemporary context.
History can be misinterpreted, fabricated and sentimental. Every detail can't be included. Artists decide what is significant, emphasising or excluding parts of a story, possibly distorting the truth.
Ultimately the artist work should aim to awaken the curious mind and stimulate further enquiry.