Reading Blog #2

Reading blog #2

John Cage’s “4 '33” performance and all of the inspired work created after sparked the art debate (again)- what can be considered art, and more importantly what can be regarded as ‘good’ (for lack of a better word) art. Anyone could make sporadic noises or remain quiet, however, the credit goes to the artist who decides to present the new concept for the first time. John Cage introduces the idea that any sounds can make music and David Tudor introduces the idea that the world can never be completely silent. Artists who bring in concepts that are not mainstream often receive backlash, because the world has not yet appreciated the new knowledge the artist is giving. 

Noise is a substantial part of human experience, yet we rarely reflect on single noises. Cage and Tudor want us to forget about the expectations we have of music, focus less on the end product, and be able to view ideas from different perspectives. These two artists raise a critical question; how can we continue to bring new ideas and more artistic opportunities if we always follow what is already accepted? The “4 ‘33” performance teaches us to embrace change and think outside the box. There will always be people who do not see the value of the “4 ‘33” performances because they fail to consider what the artists try to convey. The artist may fail to represent their ideas, yet Cage and Tudor focus more on the interactions between the artist and their audience. Their performances encourage us to not just passively consume art and not limit our creativity.

Image AI created; I often lay down on my bed from the third floor and at night listen to all the sounds (cars driving by, the wind, people talking, my breathing, everything)