The Observers 1973

Editor: Here we have Desmond Morris's "The Observers," an acrylic painting from 1973. I find it rather unsettling with these bizarre, almost alien creatures populating the canvas. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Immediately, I’m struck by the post-war anxieties embedded in this surreal scene. Morris, known for his work in zoology and primatology, presents us with a fascinating, yet disturbing, reflection of human behaviour through these biomorphic figures. Editor: So, you think he’s making a comment on human behavior through these... strange forms? Curator: Precisely. Consider the period - the 1970s, marked by political unrest, social change, and the ever-present threat of nuclear war. The "observers" could be stand-ins for us, detached and passively witnessing a world teetering on the edge. Are they judging, analyzing, or simply unable to intervene? Where do you feel the emotional core of the piece lies? Editor: I guess the two smaller figures in the background, they almost look like they’re performing for each other... Curator: That’s a key point. Could that 'performance' highlight constructed identities, the roles we play under constant scrutiny? This challenges us to consider how we present ourselves and how societal expectations shape our behaviour, especially in times of upheaval. Editor: It's amazing how much historical context changes the feel of the work. I initially just saw weird creatures, but now it feels like a commentary on society itself. Curator: Exactly! And by examining art through this lens, we can challenge traditional narratives, recognize the voices often excluded, and cultivate a more inclusive understanding of our shared human experience. This work speaks volumes about the culture of observation and social expectations.