• How does Identity relate to art / artmaking / artists in general? 

Many artists deal with Identity through their artwork because it is a personal expression of who they are or where they came from. Most contemporary art has personal meaning, which can involve identity in many degrees. We live in a multicultural, global age with communication across different societies and nations. We are provoking new discussions about our definitions of race and gender.

• Why would artists explore Identity in general?

Artists explore identity because it has personal meaning.  Identity relates to the self, others, and society as a whole. Identity brings up ideas of social injustices based on race, gender, age etc.

• Why use art to explore Identity?

Art, especially Conceptual Art, has the potential to challenge the viewer intellectually and emotionally; to take him out of his comfort zone.  When the viewer’s assumptions about his own or another’s identity are challenged, the viewer must adapt his worldview to assimilate the discrepancy.  Art can make one’s identity stand out; it can construct identities or break them down using imagery, video, or human interaction.