Interruptions 1969

Editor: We're looking at "Interruptions," a 1969 drawing by Vera Molnár. It’s an array of lines that at first glance seem random. It feels very… structured, yet chaotic. What do you see in this piece, especially considering the era it was created in? Curator: What strikes me is how Molnár, deeply engaged with computational art, uses the grid as a stage to explore controlled randomness. Look at how the interruptions, the lines themselves, disrupt the potential order. To me, it reflects the sociopolitical interruptions happening globally at the time—challenges to established norms, the questioning of structures. Editor: So, you’re saying the “interruptions” might symbolize larger societal disruptions? Curator: Exactly. Consider the context: 1969. Think of the anti-war protests, the civil rights movement, second-wave feminism, student activism... Molnár, using the computer, prefigures the breakdown of traditional artistic roles. She explores the dialogue between the artist's intent and the machine's execution. Editor: It's fascinating to think of the computer as a tool for disruption rather than just efficiency. Does the work challenge the very notion of authorship? Curator: It does. Who is truly the artist here? Molnár who sets the parameters, or the computer that generates the forms? It brings into question the romantic idea of the artist as the sole genius, reflecting a broader critique of hierarchical structures. The imperfection and “errors” introduce a vital human element. Do you think those 'errors' bring the artwork closer to reality, reflecting a real messy, interrupted society? Editor: I didn't think of it that way before, but now that you mention it, yes! Seeing those small differences almost makes the piece more impactful because they underscore that tension between structure and freedom. Thanks, that's a whole new level of understanding for me. Curator: Indeed, thinking about art within these complex intersections gives us a deeper understanding not just of the art itself, but of our shared history and continuing struggles.