Keith Arnatt

Keith Arnatt

Keith Arnatt was a British conceptual artist who was born in 1930 and passed away in 2008. He was known for his work in photography and video, which explored themes of identity, everyday objects and situations, and the conventions of art. Arnatt's work often had a dry wit and a focus on the mundane, and he was considered one of the most important figures in British conceptual art. Arnatt's interest in photography began in the 1960s, and he quickly became known for his innovative and experimental approach to the medium. He was particularly interested in the relationship between photography and reality, and his work often challenged the viewer's perceptions of what was real and what was not. Arnatt was also a member of the Art & Language collective, which was known for its interrogative works that questioned the conventions of art. One of Arnatt's most famous works is Self-Burial (1969-1970), in which he filmed himself slowly disappearing under a pile of earth. The work is a powerful commentary on mortality and the transience of life, and it has been interpreted in many different ways by viewers and critics alike. Another notable work by Arnatt is his Self-Portrait as a Good Citizen series of photographs from 1973, which features the artist dressed in various costumes and poses that represent different aspects of British society. Overall, Keith Arnatt was a pioneering artist who pushed the boundaries of photography and video, and who challenged the viewer to question their perceptions of reality and art. His work continues to be influential today, and he is remembered as one of the most important figures in British conceptual art.

Keith Arnatt, British artist, conceptual art, photography, video, identity, everyday objects, Art & Language collective, interrogative works, Self-Burial, mortality, Self-Portrait as a Good Citizen

— Paul Davis