Most artistic genres -- cubism, impressionism, abstract expressionism -- are united by a common era, location, aesthetic ideal, and host of influences. Most artists active in these movements identify as such. "Outsider art" however, follows none of these rules. Somewhat fittingly of course, because the delicate genre is, in fact, defined by its lack of conventions.
Yesterday I was joined on HuffPost Live by collector, dealer and owner of the Outsider Art Fair Andrew Edlin, as well as Creativity Explored artist Camille Holvoet and her teacher Paul Moshammer, to discuss what the term "outsider art" means to us.
Is "outsider art" a useful term for aligning artists throughout time and space who don't fit the typical "artist" mold? Whose work is uninformed by art history, market trends, and the artistic institution? Who refuse to play by the art world's rules because they're blissfully unaware of them?
Or is the term a bit more sinister, a way to put artists from unique times, places, circumstances and artistic perspectives into a box, running the risk of separating them further from the artistic success they deserve?
It's a tricky question, one to which there is no correct conclusion. You can watch us discuss our opinions above, and to learn more, check out my earlier musings on the subject. You can also learn more about the fascinating artist and goddess that is Camille Holvoet in this interview with her from September. See more of her work below:
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