In Cultural Barbarians, the VPRO Backlight series offers a thought-provoking exploration of the state of art in the modern world. The episode features a diverse collective of contemporary artists grappling with the question of whether art is dead or simply evolving. They seek to transcend traditional forms of artistic expression and embrace new mediums and approaches that reflect the changing landscape of our society.
One of the key challenges facing art today is the widening gap between the rich and the poor, which has led to top-tier works being viewed primarily as investments rather than profound expressions of creativity. At the same time, the general public often struggles to connect with great works of art and uncover their personal meaning. This has led to questions about whether art can sustain itself in a culture that is increasingly focused on celebrity, glamour, and disposable trends.
The artists featured in Cultural Barbarians offer a different approach, seeking to engage with the world in new and innovative ways. For example, the architectural collective Assemble won the Turner prize in 2015 for their plans to refurbish living quarters in an underprivileged district of Liverpool. By moving beyond the sanctified halls of museum galleries and engaging with everyday spaces, they challenge the traditional purpose of art and its role in society.
Other artists, philosophers, and authors featured in the film argue for a need to embrace the digital age, reflect on global issues like climate change, and use art to promote social engagement and activism. They believe that art can still be a powerful force for change in the world, but only if artists are willing to challenge traditional boundaries and push the limits of what is possible.
Despite the ongoing debates about the nature of creative expression and the purpose of art, Cultural Barbarians offers a powerful reminder that art is alive and well in the modern world. Through the work of contemporary artists like Assemble and the insights of leading thinkers and creators, this episode shows that art is still capable of inspiring, challenging, and changing our world.
