Conrad Bo Retrospective as Conrad Botha Introduction to Generalism

Conrad Botha

Introduction to Generalism

I founded Generalism as an art movement, mainly because there are too many paintings in existence that cannot be defined.

Generalism includes all art ever created, in the past and in the future. Therefore, all art that cannot be; or has not been yet defined as art, within an art movement, can be regarded as Generalism.

However when it is possible to narrower define a painting, like for instance an Impressionist painting by Cézanne, this art movement classification supersedes Generalism, and the painting will be known as an Impressionist painting.

Looking at the definition of the word, general (relating to or covering all instances: not limiting in meaning: not specific) there are many examples of artist all over the world that create art just for the sake of art without any specific movement or statement in mind. These are classic examples of Generalism.

Regarding my own art, I am first and foremost a Generalist. In the spirit of Generalism I paint what I see, what I know, what I don't see and also what I do not know. As the founder of Generalism I declare that there are no rules in Generalism, any means necessary to apply paint to a surface in a sensible way can be and shall be used. The only rule to Generalism is that there are no rules. Generalism includes all art, and is not just limited to paintings.

Manifesto for Generalism

1. Generalism is art, for the sake of art.

2. All art is Generalism, unless it is narrower defined in another art movement.

3. Whenever art cannot be explained, or defined by the artist or by somebody else, it will be regarded as Generalism.

4. Therefore Generalism unites all art.

5. The onus, therefore rest on the creator, or observer, to explain, or to prove that a particular piece of art should not be regarded as Generalism.

6. Generalism comes down to the fact, that even if an artist has nothing to say, he/she must say it in order to prevent their work to be classified as Generalism.

Conclusion

The above, are intended to spark debate, and do not have, to be regarded as the absolute truth.

The manifesto for Generalism, are just the starting point, it will continue to be adjusted, and debated.

Notes

I have included some photographs my Generalism paintings.

These paintings have one thing in common, and that is, (unless otherwise stated) that it could not be described or defined, into any other art movement, other than the Generalism movement.

Some of these paintings were part of my solo exhibition “Generalism, Architecturism and Television Impressionism”, which were held on 28 February 2004 in Johannesburg South Africa.

If you have any comments or would like more information please e-mail me at Conrad_botha@hotmail.com.