In his book The Radicant Nicholas Bourriad poses this question, “Why should Patagonian, Chinese, or Iranian artists be required to produce their cultural difference in their works, while American or German artists find themselves judged on their critiques of patterns of thought, or on their resistance to authority and the dictates of convention?” (Bourriard, 28)
A viewer cannot be passive but must be educated and actively investigating in order to understand what they are looking at. This is true wether the work is American or Pakistani. In order to view contemporary Western art there must be an understanding of art history and the ideologies and dialogues of the 20th Century. Even with this knowledge the viewer must work to understand the unique visual symbols presented by the artist which often complex, sometimes personal and take some deciphering. In this age of highly conceptualized art, viewing should be an active endeavor. And isn’t this need for discovery part of what makes art interesting and engaging? Only those who take the time to investigate, think and look closely are rewarded with understanding. With a little work and some willingness we can overcome barriers and take part in global dialogue expanding our vision of the world.
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