Description
The concept of "Self-taught cuneiform archaeology" is part of an artistic and philosophical approach that merges the idea of archaeological excavation, the symbolism of ancient writings (such as cuneiform), and the self-taught approach to creation. Taking into account the previous analysis of the piece, this concept can be defined as an introspective and creative exploration of the deep layers of identity, history, and memory, through a contemporary and digital reinterpretation of art.
1. Archaeology: Excavating the layers of identity and history
• Symbolic excavation: Archaeology, in this context, is not limited to a physical excavation, but becomes a metaphor for exploring the strata of identity, memory, and history. Each layer represents a part of personal or collective history, a buried emotion, or an artistic influence.
• Van Gogh as an archaeological site: In "Self-taught cuneiform archaeology", Van Gogh's self-portrait is treated as an archaeological site where we discover fragments of his history, emotions and influences. The digital work allows us to "dig" into the layers of his art to reveal new interpretations.
2. Cuneiform: Symbolism of writing and transmission
• Ancient writing: Cuneiform, one of the first forms of writing, symbolizes the transmission of ideas, emotions and stories through time. In this work, cuneiform represents the way Van Gogh "wrote" his history through his paintings, leaving behind visual traces of his human experience.
• Digital reinterpretation: Cuneiform is here transposed into a digital language, where pixels and textures become modern "characters". This reinterpretation shows how forms of expression evolve, while retaining their narrative and emotional essence.
3. Self-taught: Creation and personal transformation
• Self-taught approach: Van Gogh, although he received some artistic training, is often considered an autodidact in his quest for mastery and innovation. This notion of autodidacty is taken up in the concept of "Self-taught cuneiform archaeology", where the artist explores and creates without following a predefined path, but by drawing on his own experiences and intuitions.
4. Duality and coexistence: Chaos and harmony
• Duality: The concept of "Self-taught cuneiform archaeology" explores the duality between chaos and harmony, darkness and light, past and present. These tensions are visually represented in the work by contrasting colors, textures and forms that intertwine and confront each other.
• Coexistence: The idea of coexistence is central, showing how these opposing forces can coexist and even feed each other. This coexistence is illustrated by the way the digital work fuses traditional and modern elements, creating a new form of expression that respects and reinterprets the original.
5. Contemplation and Meditation: The Black Pixel as a Point of Focus
• Black Pixel: The black pixel at the center of the work acts as a point of meditation, inviting the viewer to explore the tensions between chaos and harmony. This pixel symbolizes both darkness and potentiality, a space where one can get lost and find oneself.
• Meditative Contemplation: The work encourages a meditative contemplation, where the viewer is invited to explore the layers of meaning and emotion present in the work. This contemplation allows for a deeper connection with the art and with oneself
Conclusion
The concept of "Self-taught Cuneiform Archaeology" is an introspective and creative exploration of the deeper layers of identity, history, and memory. Through the digital reinterpretation of Van Gogh's self-portrait, this work explores themes of duality, coexistence and personal transformation. Using modern techniques to revisit a classic work, it shows how art can reinvent itself and transcend time, while inviting the viewer to meditative contemplation and deep reflection on the nature of human existence.
A tribute to:
Van Gogh : self-portrait dedicated to Gauguin
You can see the original work at: Fogg Museum , part of Harvard Art Museums
format / media / size / speed / Edition
2160 x 3840 px / mp4 / 159 MB / 15 fps / 10 ex