Collage/Montage Aesthetic
Vine is a constrained media which limits its entries to six second loops, however it allows the user to combine multiple individual shots (or images) to comprise the six second loop. In this sketch we will explore the use of collage and juxtaposition using the application Vine.
The purpose of this sketch is to define the intentions of the collage aesthetic as a non-linear language, which reflects the visual processes of perception that are common to all of us.
The concept of montage is paralleled in other art mediums; for example an assemblage of magazine clippings to create a whole new image. The Oxford English Dictionary defines collage as “a piece of art made by sticking various different materials such as photographs and pieces of paper or fabric on to a backing.” While collage is foremost a technique for making art, it has theoretical implications, such as the importance of juxtaposition. Juxtaposition of multiple seemingly different things challenges the unity of conventional art forms.
We find this particular loop visually challenging. The flashing of the individual shots in a continuous loop is somewhat disorienting. Furthermore, due to the nature of some of the individual shots, we find it rather sinister (i.e. image of Hitler, and a man being dragged by two policeman). There are, however, moments of beauty: flowers, floral print and sensuous lips. This lends to our exploration of juxtaposition, which we have come to understand as an extension of collage. We found that juxtaposition enhances the appeal and the visceral quality of montage video. Similarly, juxtaposition is an intrinsic quality of collage.