Outsider Art of Canada: What else can art be like?

The term "outsider art" refers to the unique creations of self-taught artists who use their invented visual language to bring their imaginative images to life. This book explores the underlying biases, ideologies, and social factors that shape approaches to outsider art, including myths about mental illness, movements for social inclusion, and the marginalizing effect of labels. It also examines how we think about art and who is entitled to call themselves an artist.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2024
Publisher: Five Continents Editions

“Outsider art” is a term used to describe the unique creations of self-taught artists who are driven to express their imaginative visions through their invented visual language. It exists beyond the realm of mainstream art history, recognized by established art institutions, and outside the collective discourse of the art world. This book delves into the underlying biases, ideologies, and social factors that shape the diverse approaches to outsider art, encompassing myths about mental illness, movements towards social inclusion, and efforts to challenge the marginalizing impact of labels. Moreover, Outsider Art of Canada: An Exploration examines how we perceive art and the criteria for identifying artists. In this groundbreaking survey, dedicated to outsider art in Canada, the featured artists offer insightful perspectives on their unwavering desire to create, unbound by societal expectations or public opinion.

Outsider art emerged as a response to the dominant artistic conventions and institutions of the time, which often excluded individuals who did not fit the traditional criteria of artistic training and recognition. These self-taught artists, often marginalized by society, found a means of expression through their art, often using unconventional materials and techniques.

One of the defining characteristics of outsider art is its idiosyncratic nature. Artists who create outsider art often develop their own visual language, which is distinct from the traditional artistic conventions and styles. This visual language is often based on personal experiences, cultural influences, and the artist's own interpretation of the world.

Outsider art has been celebrated for its ability to challenge societal norms and expectations. It has been used to explore themes of social exclusion, mental illness, and the human condition. Many outsider artists use their art as a form of self-expression and therapy, allowing them to communicate their experiences and emotions in a way that is often difficult to articulate through traditional means.

Outsider art has also been recognized for its artistic merit and cultural significance. Many outsider artists have achieved significant success in the art world, with their works being exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. However, outsider art remains largely unknown and underappreciated by the mainstream art world, which often overlooks the unique perspectives and artistic contributions of these artists.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in outsider art, with collectors, curators, and art institutions recognizing its value and significance. This has led to the creation of exhibitions, publications, and programs dedicated to promoting and celebrating outsider art.

One of the key challenges facing outsider art is the lack of recognition and support from the mainstream art world. Many outsider artists struggle to gain access to exhibition spaces, galleries, and collectors, which can limit their ability to showcase their work and gain recognition. This can also lead to financial difficulties, as many outsider artists rely on their art to support themselves.

Despite these challenges, outsider art continues to thrive and evolve. Artists are continuing to push the boundaries of what is considered art, and their unique perspectives and artistic contributions are being recognized and celebrated. Outsider art has the power to inspire, challenge, and transform our understanding of art and the human experience.

In conclusion, outsider art is a unique and powerful form of artistic expression that exists beyond the boundaries of mainstream art. It is the product of self-taught artists who are driven to express their imaginative visions through their invented visual language. Outsider art has the ability to challenge societal norms, explore themes of social exclusion and mental illness, and provide a means of self-expression for artists who are often marginalized by society. While outsider art faces challenges in terms of recognition and support from the mainstream art world, it continues to thrive and evolve, and its unique perspectives and artistic contributions are being recognized and celebrated.

Weight: 928g
Dimension: 225 x 287 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9791254600375