I’m not opposed to modernity, or the soul of a new machine. I fully embrace the inevitable process where innovation forces new ways of working that are destined to replace older modes. My specific concern is that the embrace of AI’s siren promise for innovation seems uncaring about its implications while simultaneously acting as a transformational agent.
Read MoreEVERYTHING IS FREE
The trend toward “free” under-values the ability to create great music because musicians cannot support themselves simply on the merits of their ability to play. The pursuit of the ability to make great music, to extend the example, requires financial support in some appreciable measure, and when those payments fall beneath a certain threshold, excellence cannot easily develop
Read MoreEQUIVALENCY
Is there one form of creative expression that genuinely rises above all others? Are there creative enterprises that have greater value than others, or is everything equivalent to everything else? Does my poem outweigh your selfie, and honestly, who cares in the first place?
Read MoreCULTURE CRITICS? DO WE STILL CARE?
THE CHALLENGE OF ART IN INTENSELY POLITICAL TIMES
It’s a terrific development in human history that so many people should have the means and mechanisms to create images and sounds and words, but the dilution of importance for the best of those creations threatens the value and continuity of the whole enterprise.
Read MoreKICKIN’ IT OLD SCHOOL
When there’s no direct reliance on trust, powers of creative perception change. Obligation provokes sensitivity, and sensitivity inspires creative insight.
Read MoreMISFIRE? Provocations from Steven Spielberg’s “Ready Player One”
When something looks like it’s got the formula down, one begins to wonder if there’s a soul inside that formula, or simply a series a cold algorithm built of logical instructions.
Read MoreHISTORY AS A CREATIVE CONCEPT
The more a creative person understands that nothing comes into being without coming from somewhere, the more he or she can connect new inventions to deeper themes and resonances.
Read MoreTEARS IN RAIN -- Blade Runner 2049 and the Culture that Missed Something Special
The philosophical courage for artists to create requires cultures to have enough collective courage to support creators. The creative team of BR2049 helmed by director Denis Villeneuve created a fully realized world, created down to minute detail. They also created a vital, thrilling work of art.
Read MoreNEW LATITUDES, NEW LONGITUDES
By knowing the latitude and longitude of every centimeter on our planet, we must imagine new ways those places intersect.
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