Cory Arcangel

Definition

Cory Arcangel is an American contemporary artist known for his work that incorporates technology, digital media, and pop culture references. He gained recognition for utilizing the aesthetics of video games and the internet to critique mass culture, creating pieces that often challenge traditional notions of authorship and originality. His work reflects a blend of humor and commentary on consumerism, making him a significant figure in the realm of contemporary art with pop art themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cory Arcangel's works often include modifications of old video games, which he uses to comment on the relationship between technology and art.
2. One of his notable works is 'Super Mario Clouds,' where he hacks a Super Mario game to remove all elements except for the clouds, creating a meditative experience.
3. Arcangel's approach involves using everyday digital tools and platforms, making his art accessible and relatable to a broad audience.
4. He explores themes such as nostalgia, the impact of technology on society, and the fluidity of authorship in the age of digital reproduction.
5. His work has been exhibited in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Barbican Centre in London.

Review Questions

• How does Cory Arcangel's work reflect contemporary issues related to technology and mass culture?
  • Cory Arcangel's work reflects contemporary issues by engaging with technology as both a medium and subject matter. He critiques mass culture through his playful use of video game aesthetics, addressing how technology shapes our experiences and perceptions. His art invites viewers to consider the implications of digital culture on creativity, identity, and consumerism while using humor to create accessible commentary.
• Discuss the significance of remix culture in Cory Arcangel's artistic practice and how it challenges traditional notions of originality.
  • Remix culture plays a crucial role in Cory Arcangel's artistic practice as he often appropriates existing digital works to create new meanings. By altering and repurposing video games or internet content, he challenges the idea of originality by showcasing how creativity can be collaborative and iterative. This approach not only highlights the fluidity of authorship but also questions what it means to be an artist in an age dominated by digital reproduction and access.
• Evaluate the impact of Cory Arcangel's use of humor in his art on audience engagement and critique of consumerism.
  • Cory Arcangel's use of humor significantly impacts audience engagement by making complex themes more approachable and relatable. His playful manipulation of familiar digital icons allows viewers to connect with deeper critiques of consumerism without feeling alienated. This combination of humor and critical commentary fosters a unique dialogue about our relationship with technology, pop culture, and consumption, ultimately encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences within these frameworks.

Related terms

Hacktivism: A form of activism that uses hacking techniques to promote political agendas, often related to freedom of information and expression.

Net Art: Art that is created, distributed, or experienced through the internet, often emphasizing the digital medium as part of the artwork itself.

Remix Culture: A cultural phenomenon where existing cultural products are reinterpreted or transformed into new works, highlighting collaboration and innovation in creative processes.