Dada - Nonsense and Provation
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The movement known as Dada was short-lived from 1916 – 1922. It was an attitude of mind without a specific agenda. It was aesthetically attractive, witty and had an elevated element of absurdity. It was challenging the moral double standards of the time that advocated stylized ideas of purity while secretly indulging in illicit activities. It was often politically and socially motivated and found followers in Switzerland, Germany and France. The medium most commonly used was collage, which had been developed by Picasso
& Braque.
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The artist most associated with a more radical side of Dada was Marcel Duchamp. His “readymades,” like the urinal, pushed the viewer to decide “Is this Art?” His intention was to change the way people view art and lessen their intimidation. These objects caused great consternation but were a stepping stone to the acceptance of trivia later to be encountered in Pop Art.
Sherry Parker’s collages are engaging through her use of Dada “nonsense.” They are well crafted, meticulous and have a great sense of fun. They do not have a political agenda but clearly reflect her admiration for early masters of the medium such as Schwitters, Ernst, Hoch and Cornell.
Susan Alexander, curator |
Birds of A Feather,
by Sherry Parker |
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