Interactive gallery

Interactive Gallery of Interculturally Conflicting Art

Reflection

Interculturality results from the interaction between two different cultures. Most of the time, it refers to the positive outcomes of these interactions, such as mutual understanding, respect, and the exchange of ideas or thoughts. When done properly, it is a reciprocal relationship that promotes dialogue. For example, in the US, Black History Month can be considered an intercultural event, as it promotes the understanding and culture of African Americans in America's multicultural society. However, in some instances, these intercultural interactions might be misrepresented. Such is the case for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, as seen to the right. These miscommunications can lead to conflict if not addressed properly. In those cases, it is important to listen to the affected culture's perspective and try to correct and improve. Similarly, it's beneficial for the affected groups to listen to and understand the artist's perspective, as they might not have had bad intentions.I once witnessed an intercultural conflict. My boyfriend, who was working on an international project, had a misunderstanding with one of his South Asian coworkers. Their communication styles and work ethics were different, which impacted the overall progress of the project. This issue was resolved through conversing and respectful dialogue, where everyone shared their perspectives, emotions, and communication preferences. Through this process, both became more empathetic towards each other. Afterward, they were able to complete the project efficiently and effectively. Thanks to this experience, I understood the importance of intercultural perspectives and problem resolution skills.

Maya Lin’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Originally a memorial created by Maya Lin to honnor those who servied and died in the Vietnam War, it was later critiqued by its minimalist design and use of black granite, which in some cultures, the color is related to shame and dishonor. By many, it was deemed an unpatriotic monument.

PBS.(2014). What Made Maya Lin's Vietnam Memorial Design Controversial. https://www.pbs.org/video/what-made-maya-lins-vietnam-memorial-design-controversial-1e/

Takashi Murakami’s Louis Vuitton Collaboration (2002)

The artist created a collaboration with Louis Vuitton as means to blend high fashion and Japanese pop art. Although a commercial success, it resulted in many criticisms regarding the comodification of Jaspanese culture.

Zara, J. (2023). Art and Fashion Crossovers: The Good, The Bad and Embarrassingly Ill-Fitting. Frieze. https://www.frieze.com/article/art-fashion-crossovers-good-bad-ill-fitting

John Singer Sargent’s "Madame X" (1884)

What was originally intended as an elegant and beautiful depiction of a Parisian socialite was percieved as a provocative piece, due to the muse´s striking pale skin and jeweled strap that was slipped down her shoulder.

Lesso, R. (2022). How did the painting 'Madam X' Nearly Ruin Singer Sargent's Career?. The Collector. https://www.thecollector.com/how-madame-x-ruined-john-singer-sargent/

Dana Schutz's "Open Casket" (2017)

Dana, who is a white artist, depicted in her painting the mutilated face of Emmett Till, a 14-year old african american boy who was lynched in 1955. She made this painting as means to comment on racial violence. However, it led to many controversies and protests, as people argued that it Dana was exploiting black people's deaths.

Klaus, S. (2017).Dana Schutz’s “Open Casket”: A Controversy around a Painting as a Symptom of an Art World Malady. Spike. https://spikeartmagazine.com/articles/dana-schutz-s-open-casket-a-controversy-around-a-painting-as-a-symptom-of-an-art-world-malady