Louise Lawler - Sierra

While reading the interview with Louise Lawler, I found myself becoming more and more fascinated with her style and with her person. Usually, for no apparent reason, I assume conceptual artists are a bit different than the rest of us. However, Lawler comes across as an extremely intelligent and articulate woman who justifies her work well. I really liked Lawler’s statement, “I don’t object to providing information about the work, but to giving an interpretation” (193). I respect this idea because sometimes I feel that certain artists do try to force an interpretation onto the viewer. Lawler’s style, albeit a bit odd, allows the observer to interpret the art for herself. I feel this makes the art have more personal value, for when it is looked at a story (or meaning) is seen that is specific to one person. I love the fact that the same piece of art can have multiple meanings for multiple people. It is a compliment to Lawler in that she tries to incorporate this ideal into her art.
During the interview, Douglas Crimp mentions, “…your work functions more because we don’t get the point” (197). At first I thought this statement was slightly ridiculous because, honestly, who wants to stare at a photograph for hours and not understand it. However, I then thought about it more and realized that immediately understanding what an image is trying to convey takes away from the art. Part of the whole “art experience” is initially not understanding and having to unravel the mystery of the image. Lawler’s unique style relies on this desire to discover the meaning of the image and understand the image for oneself, not somebody else.