Altered

Altered art is really "in" right now. You can take a book, paint on it, cut it up, totally transform it into something that is the opposite of what it started out to be. I always liked the idea of cutting a deep square into the pages of an old book so you can hide something, like a love note, key or anything special that requires to be mysteriously hidden.

What does all this altered art mean? What is this art movement saying about our society? Maybe we are sick of mass produced things, so we are going to change what we have and make it meaningful?

I guess we are like all other generations, searching for meaning and trying to make sense of who we are.

I decided to submit a painting to an art competition in a nearby town. I have always been rejected by these people, so why do I continue to subject myself to their conservative views? That's what artists do isn't it? subject themselves for criticism in hope that someone, somewhere may connect to our art and therefore give it validity?

Sorry for so many questions, but until I find an answer that lasts, that's all I have.