Ep 4. Play

In the fourth episode of season three of Art in the Twenty-First Century, titled "Play," viewers are introduced to four contemporary artists who craft some of their work around the theme of play. These artists challenge traditional ideas of play and use it as a lens to explore complex social, political, and cultural issues.

Firstly, we meet Los Angeles-based artist Liz Larner, who uses playful experiments to explore the possibilities of materials and forms. She creates complex sculptures and installations that challenge our perceptions of shape, color, and space. Through her work, Larner invites us to play and explore with her, to see what surprises and delights can emerge from the unexpected.

Next, we are introduced to Scottish painter and installation artist Martin Boyce, whose playful creations blend art and design. Boyce draws inspiration from modernist architecture and uses everyday objects to create surreal environments that invite us to look at familiar objects in new ways. His works blur the line between art and functional design, asking us to playfully question the boundaries of each.

Thirdly, we meet Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, who works with discarded materials like bottle caps and tags to create large, mosaic-like sculptures that comment on social and economic issues. Anatsui's work challenges our preconceptions about beauty and value, encouraging us to playfully reassess what we consider worthy of attention and admiration.

Finally, we are introduced to American artist Catherine Sullivan, who uses performance art to explore themes of power and control. Drawing on the traditions of theater and film, Sullivan creates elaborate productions that challenge our ideas of what is performative and what is authentic. Through play and experimentation, Sullivan invites us to question the very nature of performance and to think critically about the power dynamics at play in our social interactions.

Throughout the episode, viewers are invited to engage with the playful spirit of the artists and to explore the diverse ways that play can be a powerful force in contemporary art. From Liz Larner's whimsical sculptures to Catherine Sullivan's provocative performances, these artists use play to help us see the world in new and unexpected ways. Whether we are exploring form, function, value, or power, the playful approach of these artists encourages us to embrace the unknown and to celebrate the surprises that arise from experimentation. In this way, "Play" reminds us of the importance of play and creativity in our lives, and encourages us to find new ways to bring these elements into our own daily routines.