Catalogue Foreword:

 

By Incorporating text and language into art, artists not only challenge traditional norms and perceptions but also foster a dialogue that transcends boundaries. 

The interplay between text and image in modern art is a fascinating evolution. René Magritte's 1929 painting "The Treachery of Images," which presents an image of a pipe with the statement "Ceci n'est pas une pipe" (This is not a pipe) is an intriguing example. 

At first glance, it seems contradictory. However, Magritte's incorporation of text challenges the viewer's perception and raises questions about representation and reality.

Barbara Kruger, an American conceptual artist, is another seminal figure who leveraged the potency of language in art. Her works, which often combine black-and-white photographs with declarative captions, serve as critiques of society, culture, and power. 

One of her most famous works, "Your body is a battleground," became an iconic piece in the feminist movement. The simplicity of the text, coupled with the imagery, delivers a potent message about the societal challenges faced by women. 

Kruger's pieces not only merge the visual and textual elements but also instigate critical thought about social issues.

Contemporary artist Jenny Holzer introduced an entirely new dimension to the concept of textual art. Her "projections" involve large-scale, public displays of illuminated text. These messages, sometimes unsettling and sometimes comforting, serve to both illuminate the physical spaces they occupy and challenge the cultural spaces of the viewer's mind. Her "Truisms," short declarative sentences, make powerful statements about society, politics, and personal truths.

Street art, which became prominent in the late 20th century, often uses language to communicate political or social messages.

Artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey have incorporated text into their work to emphasize the themes they address. Whether it's Banksy's satirical stencils or Fairey's "OBEY" campaign, language plays a crucial role in delivering the message, making it resonate with the audience instantly.

Art and language are both primary tools of human expression. When they combine, they create a force that can change perceptions, challenge the status quo, and foster dialogues. 

In an ever-evolving world, where cultures merge, and dialogues are more critical than ever, art that incorporates language serves as a bridge, inviting all to a conversation that might shape the future.

The following eleven artists continue the genre-bending tradition of incorporating language in art. 

Each artist approaches their work in a unique manner utilizing various media to achieve their aims. Gallery 44 is pleased to present Irene Clouthier, Genie Ghim, Olivia Guarnieri, Erin Hall, Barry Jones, P D Klein, Marilyn Mitchell, Hanlin Mu, Kirsten Rae Simonsen, Sarah Stolar and Enne Tesse. 

Collectively, they present an intriguing inquiry into text art today.