The Mark

A mark is one of the most powerful modes of expression. An individual conjures up a thought, which travels through their limbs to a tool ending in a stroke on the surface with a direct connection to the source of the thought. These marks of expression are then taken in by others and the thought has a direct connection from one individuals mind to another.

Many artist have used and explored the limits of human expression through the process of making stokes and marks. A prime example of one such artist is Cy Twombly. Twombly has displayed works of art that some would see as pure scribbles. But there is no denying these illegible scribbles give a sense of emotional expression extending from Twombly himself.

Readability is not an issue when it comes to the works of fine artists. Designers need to worry about the messages being clear, words readable, and delivering information to the most people. Printing presses, cameras and computers have added clarity to the messages to they’re easily interpreted. The problem with these tools and their method of clarity is often times the human connection, which engages the user to view the work in the first place, is lost. The individual expression is gone and the messages blend in with one another because they have no unique personality.

So what’s the solution? Is there a balance between retaining the hand made mark and still effectively delivering the message? The works below are some of my attempts. I tried to produce these works quickly and a spontaneously without being overly concerned of legibility. The computer was used to recreate the works and send them to the masses. The result, people noticed the works and so engaged that they took the time to read every word in the piece.