Women's art, political art - those categorisations perpetuate a certain kind of marginality which I'm resistant to. But I absolutely define myself as a feminist.
Barbara KrugerRead
But I really resist categories – that naming is a closing down of meaning. Women's art, political art – those categorisations perpetuate a certain kind of marginality which I'm resistant to. But I absolutely define myself as a feminist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses resistance to categorizing art, particularly in ways that marginalize it, while affirming a strong feminist identity.
In this quote, Barbara Kruger takes a stand against the categorization of art that, in her view, limits its interpretation and perpetuates marginalization. She argues that labels such as 'women's art' or 'political art' confine creative expression rather than celebrate its complexity. However, despite her resistance to categorization in art, she firmly identifies as a feminist, indicating that her gender and the feminist movement are integral to her identity, even as she challenges the constraints of societal labels.
Themes
ArtFeminismMarginalityIdentityResistance
In practice
Example use cases
During a panel discussion on feminism in the arts, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of rejecting limiting categories.
More from Barbara Kruger
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Prominence is cool, but when the delusion kicks in it can be a drag. Especially if you choose to surround yourself with friends and not acolytes.
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I think pictures and words have the power to make us rich or poor.
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I had to figure out how to bring the world into my work.
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Belief is tricky because left to its own devices, it can court a kind of surety, an unquestioning allegiance that fears doubt and destroys difference.
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