To illustrate the philosophical ideas which I consider most significant in Ansel Adams’s work, I created two photographs of my own (see fig. 1 and 2). I took both of the images in the Great Smoky Mountains. With the help of these photos, I tried to reflect the philosophical concepts of environmentalism, which advocate the preservation and conservation of nature in its original form rather than altering it for people’s convenience. Moreover, too frequently, nature is changed not for some good causes, such as the need to make roads, but merely because people are too lazy to clear up the garbage they produce. As a result, it becomes impossible to enjoy the beauty of landscapes without having to observe destroyed or littered pieces of nature.
I attempted to organize the content of my photographs in a way expressing the philosophical ideas of environmentalism. In the first image (see fig. 1), I arranged the details in the composition to guide the observer through the place I captured by the camera. With the help of the play of the light and shadow, I gained the effect of vivacity and cheerfulness. At the same time, dark trees, situated approximately in the middle of the composition’s horizon, present a feeling of alertness and the fear of something undiscovered. In the second image (see fig. 2), a similar approach was employed. I wanted to capture a waterfall in its pristine beauty. It took me much effort to take a photo without people in it. Unfortunately, too many individuals prefer to disturb nature rather than enjoy the contemplation of it. Therefore, I exploited capture techniques and then used editing tools in industry-standard software to highlight the impact of Adam’s philosophical ideas on my work.
Fig. 1. My own photo #1Fig. 2. My own photo #2
Enduring Influence
An Artist Statement
The photos I took for the project reflect my inner world. I am convinced that the beauty of the nature around us is meant to be untouched and deserves to be treasured not destroyed. To emphasize my feelings and intentions expressed in the first photo (see fig. 1), I will compare it to Ansel Adams’s work entitled “Tetons and Snake River” (see fig. 3). Both images bare not only aesthetic but also historical significance. Adams’s photograph depicts a graceful river winding among the mountains and woods. My photo shows mountains’ peaks and foregrounds along with a line of trees in the middle and a line of plants at the front of the composition. Both of the photos show deep respect and love for nature and its pure beauty that has not been marred by a man’s presence. In both images, the horizon is placed approximately in the top third of the work. Adams’s photograph contains more elements, which makes it more engaging by showing various pieces of nature. However, while my photo has fewer planes of context, it is also rather pronouncing and clearly expresses the ideas of environmentalist philosophy.
The historical significance of my photo is in the preservation of natural landscapes in their untouched form. Time goes by, and many of the unique pieces of natural beauty that are truly magnificent become spoiled due to technological progress or pollution. Thus, my work is aimed at promoting the safety of nature and its preservation for future generations. My photograph reflects the present beauty which, hopefully, will remain in this condition with the help of other concerned people.
Fig. 2. Adams. Tetons and Snake River, Grand Tetons National Park, 1942. Gelatin silver print
The Influence of Adams’s Photography on My Work
Ansel Adams’s work has had a tremendous impact on my work both in professional and spiritual dimensions. First of all, I have been inspired by Adams’s photographs since an early age, when I first saw them. As I grew up and my environmentalist aspirations strengthened, I became even more interested in Adams’s creations. Hence, I tried to interpret the philosophical ideas represented in the inspirational photograph (see fig. 3) in my work (see fig. 1). One of the specific qualities signifying Adams’s effect on my photo is the composition, which involves a careful selection of colors and shades. With the help of this feature, both images display all elements present in them distinctly. Another quality reflected in both photos is the impeccability of nature without people’s intrusion. The two works clearly express the intention to preserve the environment by taking good care of it and not disturbing it without a reasonable cause.
I plan to continue exploring the mentioned philosophical ideas in my future work. Particularly, one of the goals I have set for myself is taking a series of “before” and “after” photos that will display untouched landscapes and then show them after people’s intrusion. It is likely that such a series might incorporate works of photographers working in the past to reflect the “before” part and my works to portray the “after” part. Another goal that will help to highlight the ideas of environmental philosophy is contrary to the first one. I might take shots of the same place when it is dirty and littered, and then photograph the same landscape after cleaning it. Finally, I will continue shooting impeccable natural landscapes to proclaim the ideal of conserving them for future generations.
Artists have historically used the various tools at their disposal to communicate issues of importance and provoke the society. The issues that art has been used to deal with include: war, violence, racism, and equality to name but a few. What makes art such an effective tool in addressing social issues is its ability to focus the community on the social problems. It has been shown that art can help people connect with some aspect of social reality in a manner that they could otherwise have not without the aid of art.
In light of the significant power that art and by extension artists hold, there arises the question of whether artists have a responsibility to address social problems through their works. This paper shall argue that Artists do not have the responsibility to address social problems in their work.
Why Artists Should not be Obligated to Address Issues
Most of the artwork expressed by artists is open to a number of interpretations. The meaning that an artist intends to convey may therefore differ significantly from that of the audience. A good example of this multi interpretation is the Eagle’s 1977 hit song titled “Hotel California”.
While the song write Don Henley suggests that the song is an artwork imbued with various sociopolitical statements which he goes on to articulate, various music critics interpret the lyrics differently. It can be assumed that ordinary listeners also have different interpretations of the song therefore defeating the purpose of the artist to convey a particular message. If it were the artist’s responsibility to convey an opinion on social problems in their work it would be counter productive if the audiences do not understand it
The ideal of democracy that most Western nations hold is grounded in the concept of free speech. If society were to compel artists to address social problems, then the freedom of expression of the artist would be violated. Art is chiefly a form of free expression and although it may be beneficial to society, the personal freedom of the artist has primacy. The personal interest of the artist should take precedence over any other consideration.
As it stands, artists have different motivations for producing their artistic works. For most, the chief concern is commercial success. Christians et al. reveals that “entertainment media are 90% business and 10% public service” (28). The profit motive is therefore the most compelling concern for the artist and they will go to great lengths to achieve this end. It would be very irrelevant to expect an artist whose only concern is commercial success to champion some social cause.
Art is a form of expression and using it, artists can express various sentiments through the force in their brush strokes and through the variations of colors, or through their lyrics and rhythm of the song. For example, music allows artists to express their current state of emotion.
“Love the Way you Lie” which is a hugely successful work by the singer Rihanna is a vivid expression of the artist’s emotional state at the time. This demonstrates that art fulfills a role in the life of the artist and it allows them to into touch with themselves and who they are. Forcing the artist to address social problems which may not be of relevance to them may therefore inhibit their artistic expression.
Artists produce their greatest works when they feel inspired. This works end up being of huge significance to the society as a result of the passion exhibited by the artist in his work. Should an artist be compelled to produce socially conscious work as a result of supposed social responsibility, the work would lack the passion that comes from personal convictions.
The work would therefore not have as great an impact. Forcing the artist to address social issues can therefore have an adverse effect on the artistic work therefore rendering it a weak force for social change. Artists should therefore be let to address social problems when they feel inclined to do so.
The artist’s responsibility to society has been exaggerated and for this reason, some people feel that artists owe it to society to address social problems. While this view may have been true in the past, art no longer holds the prominence in people’s lives that it held in the past. Art and the artists are no longer viewed as the social commentator or the life-giving force for the society. It is therefore grossly unfair to burden the artist with the responsibility of addressing social issues.
Most of the modern artists lack social consciousness and are people of questionable moral standings. This is a fact that is made visible through their works which lack any depth and any real relevance. This is especially the case with most hip-hop artists whose lyrics talk about drugs, money, and women and romanticize violence.
Forcing such artists to address social problems would be wrong since the artists themselves do not have the moral impetus to call for such changes. For example, it would be ironical for an artist like Lil Wayne to talk about social inequality or poverty since the public would view the artist as hypocritical in light of his previous works.
Why Artists Should Address Social Issues
Artists possess the means through which to deal with issues that the rest of society dares not address. Through the various expressions available to them, artists can provoke the society to talk openly about issues that such as racism, gender violence and homophobia to name but a few.
Without this provocation, the general public would be content to keep quiet about the issue and act like it was not important. Artists offset this by making the public face these controversial issues. It would therefore be irresponsible for the artist to fail to use this great power for the greater good by addressing social problems.
Artists can use their work to trigger the viewer’s attention to certain issues hence causing them to look into their own lives. This may help bring about intervention on some social problems. The prolific pop artist Lady Gaga has used her artistic status to address various social issues. Her songs bring to sharp focus the issue of discrimination as a result of sexual orientation.
The artist therefore raises awareness and social consciousness on the subject therefore fostering change. She also tackles the issue of homophobia that is deeply embedded in the hip-hop culture. By doing this, the artist uses her work to change people’s minds on the issue of homophobia by depicting gay people as every bit as normal as the straight people.
This “new perception” is crucial for any social change to take place since it results in the doing away of stereotypical views. Art therefore serves to create the necessary preconditions before social change can occur. Artists would therefore be viewed as irresponsible if they failed to address significant issues in society since they posses the means to bring about change.
Art presents a good platform from which a vast range of social issues can be addressed. By addressing these social issues, artists can empower the population. This is the case when artists use their work to narrate personal experiences which relate to certain problems.
By use of art, viewers are allowed to see the social problem in the eyes of someone who has been through it and hence it is more believable. For example, the renowned singer “Kelly Rowland” addresses the issue of bullying and school shooting through her song “Stole”. The artist through this song acts as a commentary and related a social problem since they don’t want to see it happen again.
Discussion
The role of artists in society has changed significantly over the years. While in the past artists were the social commentators who served to direct the attention of the public to areas of interest, this is no longer the case. The discussions presented in this paper have revealed that for most modern artists, the main motivation is commercial success. As such, addressing social problems takes a back seat to most artists and they do not feel obliged to tackle the issues.
However, in as much as an artist may claim that his/her work is personal and he/she is therefore not expected to conform to any preset rules, the work of the individual artist fits into a broader social framework. The work of an artist has the power to mould and shape public values and opinions.
The artists do have some responsibility to the public who are the major consumers of their artistic products. Artists have some ethical obligation to take into consideration the manner in which their audience may perceive their work especially if the works may influence people to act in a certain manner.
Even so, this paper has demonstrated that the positive impact that may come about from an artist addressing social problems can be greatly diminished if the artist addresses the issue out of a sense of obligation. Art is a versatile tool for enabling people to view an issue from a different perspective.
By making people aware of various views on the same subject, an artist can make the society make positive changes. However, Addressing social problem must come from the artist’s own convictions and not any external pressures. Lady Gaga’s social commentaries are made powerful by the fact that she believes in her cause for the marginalized people.
Conclusion
This paper sets out to argue that artists do not have a responsibility to address social problems in their works. To support this claim, this paper had demonstrated the various setbacks that would arise from requiring that all artists address social issues in their works. However, the paper has also revealed the great power that art has in addressing social issues.
Even so, the paper has demonstrated that the effectiveness of art in addressing social issues springs from the artist’s passions and convictions on the subject. As such, whether or not an artist addresses social issues is a deeply personal matter and the artist should not be obligated to address social problems if he does not feel the need to.
Works Cited
Christians, Clifford, Rotzoll, Kim., Fackler, Mark., Mckee Kathy and Woods, Robert. Media Ethics: Cases and Moral Reasoning (7th Edition) Allyn & Bacon 2004. Print.
Smith, Paul and Wilde, Carolyn. Blackwell companions in cultural studies Volume 5 of Blackwell companions to literature and culture. Wiley-Blackwell, 2002. Print.
Revolutionary art if a form of modern art through which artists express their personal convictions about certain issues in the society. The pieces of art might also depict political themes (Douglas, 1970). A true revolutionary artist does not care whether the needs of speculative dealers are met or not.
Revolutionary art should not be characterized by sycophancy that is aimed at making collectors like an artist’s work. When an artists is entirely motivated to meet the needs of dealers in their work then the revolutionary attributes in them ceases to exist (Party, 1969). Revolutionary art addresses the living issues of the society without any fear of contradiction. This paper will highlight the purpose of revolutionary art in the society and at the same time discuss how revolutionary art has affected art and artists in America.
Many people in the modern society are very reluctant to think about change and therefore revolutionary artsist and other types of revolutionists have a great assignment of ensuring that people’s minds are provoked to start thinking about change (Party, 1969). The society is always faced with inequalities and revolutionary art often seeks to change the status quo (Douglas, 1970).
The true purpose of revolution is to fight any kind of injustice in the society through inspiring other people to fight against all evils and forms of injustice in the society. Revolutionary artists use specific themes in their works that actually reflect revolution or the works can help to bring out a new conscience among the people.
Revolution art aims to eliminate political struggles and in the process generate political passions. Revolution art has actually changed life and brought liberation in many countries across the world with America being a perfect example. This form of art has completely changed American art artists in a great way (Porter, 1986). Artists like John Trumbul were very instrumental in American Revolution by making portrait paintings that helped a great deal in helping America gain its independence fro Great Britain.
This inspired other artists to explore revolutionary art by focusing on landscape and personal scenes. After the revolutionary war in the late 18th century, American artists stopped using British styles and invented their own unique American styles. All the colonial art styles and architecture were completely phased out in America to indicate revolution (Porter, 1986).
These pieces of art helped spread the wave of change even to the most conservative of minds in the wake of independence. This new style of art that emerged after the American revolution helped in bringing a sense of national identity to American citizens and at the same time inspired a new American consciousness.
In conclusion, revolutionary art has become very popular across the world because of the desire for total liberation. Since revolutionary art was invented, people’s perspective about art has completely changed. A piece of revolutionary art should reflect the true revolutionary conviction of the artist without bearing in mind the needs of dealers.
Revolutionary art played a key role in bringing change and liberation in countries such as America and in the process becoming very popular. The fundamental role of revolutionary art is to inspire people to fight all forms of evil and injustice in the society.
References
Douglas, E. (1970). Revolutionary art: A tool for liberation. New York, NY: John Brown Party.
Party, B. (1969). Revolutionary art: A tool for liberation. New York, NY: Black Panther Party.
Porter, R. (1986). Revolution in history. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.
Tracey Moffatt is one of Australia’s most famous artists. She was born on November 12, 1960, in Brisbane, Australia. Of Aboriginal descent, she was adopted by a white family when she was a child. She studied visual communications at the Queensland College of Art, where she graduated in 1982 (Tracey Moffatt). She is now based in both Sydney and New York.
The peak of her career came in the 1980s and 1990s when she staged solo photography shows and released film and video works which included experimental video, a feature film, and short films. In 1989, she staged her first solo photography show with the surreal and sensual series ‘Something More’, which reflects the endeavors of a beautiful woman looking for a better life in the city (Versloot).
Tracey Moffatt’s first short film, ‘Night Cries: A Rural tragedy,’ was released in 1990 and was officially selected to be part of the Cannes Film Festival. Her first feature film, ‘Bedevil’, was likewise shown in Cannes in 1993. Her photography masterpieces are permanently included in the collections of the Tate Gallery in London and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Most of Tracey Moffatt’s works revolve around her Aboriginal descent, femininity, and the social inequality of gender and race. She has drawn inspiration for her works from her own experiences and the observations she made during her growing-up years. When she was a child, she was attracted to the media. She paid close attention to magazines, television, and films, carefully blending fantasy with reality. She was not only interested in fiction, but she likewise got ideas of how the world is actually and socially functioning through the evening news. Her works are not at all simple, for each conveys a deeper meaning than the image being presented. The images in her artworks yearn to be analyzed and understood in different contexts based on the person’s sentiments and background. Although a general theme usually covers photographic art, a film, or a video, all materials are subject to the interpretation of some kind which varies from one individual to another.
Tracey Moffatt’s artworks are combinations of personal desires and angst and the present social reality. She seeks to establish a personal identity as well as group identity and acceptance, away from the much-accepted norm of conformity. She aims to raise not just the rights of women but to advance the level of their purpose for existence and to be proud of their distinctiveness as women. She also aspires to break not just gender barriers but to limit the extent to which racial discrimination is being accepted and exercised. Some of her works reflect the reversal of roles where she shows that race is not a determinant of who should be at the top or who should be at the pit. Some of these works depict characters belonging to the supposedly more superior race or gender being subjected to experiences of the supposedly lower stratum players.
Most of Moffatt’s works were produced and gained recognition in the 1980s and 1990s.
These decades saw major changes in the world’s social and political climate because of important successes and downfalls. The 1980s culminated in the fall of the Berlin Wall 1989. Within this decade, there were foiled assassination plots like that of the Pope and Ronald Reagan. The assassination of John Lennon in 1980 was, however, successful, and India’s prime minister, Indira Gandhi, was killed by two bodyguards.
There were political upheavals like the massacre of students in Tiananmen Square, China, and the end of the dictatorial regime of Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines, which saw Corazon Aquino as the first Philippine woman president elected into office. There was a famine in Ethiopia, and a new disease was identified as AIDS or the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and in entertainment, 1982 saw the release of the movie E.T. by Steven Spielberg and the release of Michael Jackson’s best-selling album ‘Thriller’ (Rosenberg).
The decade of the 90s was a time of peace and redemption, especially in the issue of racial discrimination as African leader Nelson Mandela was freed in 1990 and the Apartheid laws or the laws of racial segregation in South Africa were repealed in 1991. Nelson Mandela was then elected as President of South Africa in 1994. The fall of the Soviet Union was another great historical event that occurred in 1991. The cold war officially ended the year after.
Panama Canal was returned to Panama, and Hong Kong was returned to China. Though peace was achieved in some parts of the world, this decade also marked the start of Operation Desert Storm because of the Persian Gulf War. In other fields, the 1990s saw the launching of the Hubble Telescope into space, the ‘Pathfinder’ sending back images of Mars, and ‘Titanic’ became the highest-grossing movie ever (Rosenberg).
Based on the historical and social events which occurred in the 1980s and the 1990s, there was generally more political and social awareness and freedom around the world. In Australia, the 1990s gave way to clamor from human rights groups for the government to apologize for an earlier government policy of placing Aboriginal children in institutions after removing them from their families or separating them from their parents. There were also moves in parliament to make up for the injustices done to indigenous or aboriginal Australians in past generations. Even in Australia, there was liberation from previously held practices of racial discrimination, as well as gender inequalities.
The works of Tracey Moffatt greatly reflect the historical and social concepts of both her personal life and the social conditions in society.
There is an intertwining of the personal or subjective and the social realms. Although her works are more often based on her life experiences or allegories of her life events, these experiences are connected to or shaped so that social reality may be imbibed in the artworks. The major themes of her art include power, feminism, love and sexuality, racial and gender discrimination, Aboriginal segregation, and even life and death. These themes mirror the social connections between and among people in society.
‘Nice Colored Girls’ was a 16-minute film by Tracey Moffat which was released in 1987. The film was based on the exploitation of Aboriginal women by white men pertaining to the encounters between colonizers and native women in the olden times. It likewise referred to the status of the female as being subordinate to the males, worsened by the fact that Aboriginal women are regarded much lower. This film was a statement of feminism and redemption for both females and Aborigines.
In the film, there is a reversal of fortune between the white man and the oppressed woman. The story focuses on the abduction of a white man by three Aboriginal women who persuaded a white man to spend money on them and encouraged him to get drunk. The woman then stole his wallet and left him. The film showed the women as being dominant over the man and that women also have the power to victimize. This is not a glorification of the crime committed, but its purpose is to deviate from the stereotypical allusion to women as always being the victims, thus, giving women the qualities of weakness and helplessness. This film turned that view around and directed social reality to the possibilities of strength, independence, and power among women. It reflected the growing force of women in society. The film tried to twist the never-ending struggle of women against oppression by showing a contradicting plot. By doing so, Moffatt encouraged critical analysis of the story and a reflection of what norms exist in society.
In 1989, Tracy Moffat released the series of nine images she called ‘Something More.’ The narrative of the series was about the adventures or misadventures of a beautiful woman who wanted something more out of her life, so she goes to the city. The settings of the photographs depicted rural Australia and Brisbane as the city where the woman wishes to go to for a better life. The photographs showed physical violence and sexual male dominance. It also portrayed sexual slavery and extreme fear in women.
These situations and experiences are alluded to as what the woman wishes to go away from. She yearns to leave a place where gender and racial inequalities are pervasive. Unfortunately, one of the photographs depicted that the woman died while treading the path towards Brisbane.
Tracey Moffat’s ‘Something More’ went deeper into the scars and damages of society brought about by colonialism and its abuses. Colonialism reflected a white male-dominated rule. ‘Something More’ also touched on the experiences of most Aboriginal women when they try to get more out of life or when they try to get out of the oppressive situations they are presently in. Like the photograph where the woman died before even embarking on her journey, most Aboriginal women often do not fulfill their goals, and their chances are thwarted even before they begin to try. Their efforts are oftentimes considered futile as successes are very seldom achieved. This idea discourages them from yearning for a better life and doing something about it.
In the same year as the release of ‘Something More,’ Moffatt released the 35mm film ‘Night Cries: A Rural Tragedy.’ The film was about the futility, desperation, and loss that an Aboriginal woman went through in the process or in her obligation of taking care of her elderly white mother (Walker). The story revolves around a middle-aged Aboriginal woman nursing her dying white stepmother. Although the relationship shows a somewhat love-hate pattern, the adopted daughter’s attitude towards her duty seems to be that of loneliness and despair bordering on hostility. The film’s characters obviously reflect the personal life of Moffatt in that she was likewise from Aboriginal descent who was adopted by a white family. While describing part of her own personal experience, Moffatt likewise aimed to expose social reality. The film is a direct allusion to the earlier government policy of separating Aboriginal children from their own families and placing them in institutions or arranging of adoptions by white families. Aside from the taking away of Aboriginal children from their families, there were other injustices done toward indigenous Australians.
It is a manifestation of one of the ills of Australian society.
Another socially relevant work of Tracey Moffat is the series ‘Scarred for Life’ released in 1994. The series of images were about childhood stories and lost memories. Some of the images are tragic and some are funny tales.
According to Moffat, the stories behind the images are all true stories shared by friends and the images were straightforward and very ordinary in that many people were able to relate to them and relive their own experiences through the photos (Cathcart).
The photographs showed relationships between parents and their children, and the situations inside the home concerning family members. The images reflected dysfunction in the relationships, brutality and arguments.
The images are accompanied by titles which help describe and personalize the images. ‘Scarred for Life’ was a possible means of expression for the artist in her quest for identity when she was a child. Moffat was brought up in an environment where identities and cultures are mixed. It was a setting were a child can easily get confused with what identity to take as his or her own. The images shown in ‘Scarred for Life’ are real expressions of the existing social relationships at home. They are actual representations of the experiences of children then and now.
Tracey Moffatt’s film ‘Heaven’ was released in 1997. ‘Heaven’ was a documentary involving surfers and the instance when they were changing their clothes in a parking lot near a beach.
The film was shot in an amateurish way where Moffatt asked some of her friends to go along with her so they too can take footages of the surfers. In this film, Moffatt assumed the role of a voyeur. The film reflected female aggression and the desire of women. ‘Heaven’ heavily dealt with feminism and the taboo of female sexual desire. In present society, it is actually the male who is presented in the media and in art as the gender who indulges in sexual desires. It is socially accepted that men overtly express their admiration for the physical body of women, but conversely, women are deemed more conservative when it comes to sexual matters. It is somehow accepted in society that men are prone to voyeurism, but not women.
This film negates these social notions.
It reverses the situation where it is the women this time who indulges in the enjoyment of watching or looking at men’s bodies or their physical aspects. The film ‘Heaven’, though it deviates from the practices that society is used to, is still a representation of how women are repressed in terms of self-expression. The stereotype of being women, how they should behave in society and the roles that they assume are still limiting their capabilities and their right of self-expression.
Tracey Moffatt is not just an artist who is concerned with aesthetics. She is likewise an artist who has meaningful advocacies. She stresses however, that she is not an advocate of any specific group or organization, nor is she promoting a specific school of thought. She is also not a teacher and an activist, she is primarily an artist. She is an artist who renders relevance to her work.
She finds meaning and beauty in images that are conveying messages which are subject to interpretation of the viewers.
Historical basis and social reality are always reflected in the works of Tracey Moffatt. From photography to film and video creations, Moffatt gives the people, particularly her audience, images to analyze, ponder on, interpret and relate to. Her works are particularly engaging where one who looks at her art does not only appreciate the beauty or the artistic technique used in the art, but it engages the viewer in critical thinking or intellectual discourse. The viewer is made to not only appreciate but at the same time think of the message that the art work wants to convey. Tracey Moffatt values art as a venue of not just self-expression but of social relevance. This social relevance and the historical significance of her art works make them timeless pieces.
Art is what defines “people’s cultures, traditions, ideas, and moral responsibilities” (Cone 4). Good art ensures every person is contented with his or her society. Art creates the best bonds and associations among different social groups. Art also helps people embrace new ideas in order to make their societies prosperous. Every artist has a critical role to play in his or her society.
Artists such as “filmmakers, architects, painters, writers, composers, and musicians contribute a lot to the glory and pride of every society” (Cone 7). These artists support the best national ideas and traditions in order to make every society successful. The practice has supported better social bonds and civic cohesions.
According to Cone (14), “art helps individuals express their ideas, concepts, and feelings about the surrounding world”. Art is a powerful tool because it gives room for criticism and appreciation. Artists have always presented beautiful ideas and scenes that can make our societies successful. Artists can “encourage their followers to support the best activities and decisions in the society” (Cone 15).
Artists have encouraged many individuals in the society to work hard in order to realize their potentials. Artists have always given people better ideas and incentives. People can use these concepts and practices to achieve their personal goals (“Panelists Discuss Role of Art in Changing Society” par. 3).
Art helps people appreciate the power of criticism. People can use this practice to address every problem encountered in the society. Every society can use different works of art to make contextual, informed, and solid judgments. Artists use their works to portray the best moods, concepts, ideas, and feelings (“Panelists Discuss Role of Art in Changing Society” par. 5). Many societies have embraced the above ideas in order to achieve their goals. Every society should embrace art because it promotes peace and civilization.
Works Cited
Cone, Edward. “The Authority of Music Criticism.” The Journal of the American Musicological Society 34.1 (1981): 1-19. Print.
Panelists Discuss Role of Art in Changing Society, 1991. Web.
Art is a phenomenon encompassing the innovative expression of humanistic dimensions on contemporary elements. Over the decades, the evolutionary cycle fostered advancement and adjustments of the practice across different domains. In this case, distinct regions uphold dynamic perspectives concerning artistry despite its distinctive sections. The UAE and more broadly the Arabian Gulf’s art scene has evolved in substantial ways over the past decades. As this part of the world witnessed exponential growth in infrastructure, industrial development, and the influx of talent, so has the landscape of modern and digitized art. This has led to a boom of artists, both locally and internationally, who are challenging the old models of curatorial interpretation and audience engagement and leveraging a robust ecosystem that offers greater support for their work (Amiri, 2021). The contrast between traditional and modern art fosters derivation of imminent challenges towards promoting evolvement in the artistic spectrum. The research problem entails assessing the dynamic matters influencing emerging artists and the promotion of inchoate art scenes.
Research Question
What are the challenges facing emerging artists in modern art scenes?
Thesis Statement
The contrast between modern and traditional art is one of the significant challenges facing artists in the emerging art scenes due to the optimal evolutionary prompt for innovation and creativity.
Literature Review
The Evolution of Art
The Flemish art period between the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries involved significant and dynamic events in the historical mark in the field of artistry. The different events that proficiently attributed to the Flemish concept encompassed Late Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. During these eras, pioneers portrayed profound insight into the evolution of frameworks in the art world. One of the major evolutionary gradients during the Flemish art period engulfed the optimal use of oil for painting. According to the researchers, the initiative steered the in-depth use of realism perspective in the paintings’ shaping, texture, and structuring (Fong & Ng, 2020). In this case, the artists integrated daily livelihoods with artistry to enhance real-life experiences. Primarily, the renaissance, also known as rebirth, fostered the prominent consideration of humanism in the field of art that rendered the integration of modernism and the Greco-Roman cultural frameworks.
Renaissance is a major historical event during the Flemish art era between the fifteenth and seventeenth century, posing significant insight regarding artistry. According to the researcher, the Flemish art period set off with the late gothic era encompassing (Al Khayyal et al., 2020). The late gothic era enshrined the emergence of distinct architectural designs, such as ornate, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, the window glasses stained with different colors (Akhmetshin et al., 2018). The architectural designs render the optimal consideration of the dynamic cultural representation across Europe, mainly in Britain, France, and the Netherlands. The late gothic period formed the foundation for the emergence of the renaissance era mainly as a result of the integration of various early renaissance ideologies for the architectural structures. Apart from the late gothic era, the baroque period involved the utilization of bright colors (Amiri, 2021), miniatures, and stained-glass windows. Essentially, the late gothic and baroque contributed to the introduction of the renaissance period through the evolutionary aspect in the painting practice.
Abstract versus Realism in Art
Art is a vital factor of practice mainly as a result of the prominent integration of visual and real-life experiences. During the early and mid-gothic era, the artists focused on contemporary objects during the drawings. However, the emergence of Flemish art encompassed the alteration of the perspectives, mainly the incorporation of humanism. Humanism is the practice of integrating artistry approaches with the significance of people and the dynamic philosophical constructs (Erie, 2019). An excellent example of a renaissance artist is Michelangelo, an Italian whose famous work is the Sistine Chapel, demonstrating theology’s rebirth. According to Michelangelo, it is crucial to use art as a visual depiction of reality (Li, 2021). Therefore, the expert utilizes the religiosity approach to enhance humanism and realism within the artistic spectrum.
Studying renaissance under the spectral view of humanism and realism fosters a profound overview regarding the interdependence between artworld and contemporary issues. Previously, Flemish art regarded the prominent use of abstract images, posing minimalist meaning to artworld mainly because of the lack of relevance to integral real-world endeavours. In this case, one of the elements of the real events during Flemish art encompassed intensifying the significance of artistry to people and the community (Salisbury, 2020). Michelangelo focused on enhancing the visual meaning of Jesus’ feast with his disciples through the painting of entities on the Sistine Chapel wall. The initiative fostered the appreciation of art locally and globally due to the humanistic perspective on ideological practices. Primarily, Michelangelo spearheads the evolutionary scale in theology based on integrating historical accounts with visual perspectives.
Gradients promoting Art’s Aesthetic Value
Renaissance fostered the alteration of the dynamic philosophical constructs in the innovative and creative perspectives. Apart from painting using oil, the artists incorporate distinct values on using various colors to enhance the visualization of the realm. In this case, colorations fostered the abstract meaning of life and the environmental mainframes articulating the individualistic personality. A researcher agrees that a different event that fostered socio-cultural and economic growth and development is capitalism (Salisbury, 2020). The concept enshrines the private ownership of property and wealth accumulation hence the individualistic essence in the international community. The rebirth era prominently influenced the dynamism of interactions among personnel and business competence. While the art world evolved along the gradient of humanism and realism, society exploited the capitalist approach to boost the living quotient among individuals. Fundamentally, the Flemish art intensified the visual and contemporary perspective regarding the interdependent relationship between artistry and business performances.
A significant percentage of the global population focused on innovation’s integral aspect, hence the intensification in business competence. In research, the author indicates that the reflection of the individualistic nature among people spanned through the artistic and economic structures. During the renaissance period, societies focused on intensifying economic growth, hence adopting dynamic frameworks and the emergence of social classification perspectives. The researcher further argues that technological advancement is an initiative that attributed to the rebirth of the Greco-Roman era that involved intense business operations and trading activities (Kryzmowski, 2022). The integration of the ideological perspectives regarding enterprise transactions enhanced the overview and enhancement of people’s attitude on diversity. Creativity and innovation significantly contribute to boosting the living conditions among community members. An excellent example is the utilization of innovation in the architectural industry to render the construction of sustainable structures and settlement areas. Dynamism is an integral feature towards promoting growth index across distinct societies.
Art Practices in Different Regions
Innovation and creativity bridge the gap between modernism and traditional appeals across the different facets of human activities. The Flemish art significantly affected the key articulation of individualism despite the profound emergence of mainframes and concepts through various phases, namely late gothic, baroque, and the renaissance to establish realism (Li, 2021). As a multidimensional phenomenon, Flemish art enhances the integration of modernism with the Roman aspects on architectural designs and the Greek’s philosophical overviews, Napoleonic constructs. As a result, the study of the concepts fosters an insight into the evolutionary process among people while advocating for the emergence of modern society. Hong Kong and Singapore are excellent examples of countries that proficiently integrate traditional and contemporary art.
Asian countries prominently use traditional medicine to treat different diseases in the modern era. The approach renders the profound impact of conventional art despite the evolutionary process. Xin et al. (2020) postulate that a significant percentage of Chinese mainly prefer conventional practices as remedies to alleviating illness. Although current medications pose distinctive effects, the majority of Chinese rely on traditional aspects. In a different spectrum, Singaporeans highly value dynamic aspects of art, mainly portraiture and ink painting. Fong and Ng (2020) establish that the Singapore government optimally invests in conventional art as a strategy of promoting the country’s social identity while incorporating modern perspectives for better preservation of the aesthetic value. On the one hand, the initiative renders an adept opportunity to market conventional art internationally. On the other hand, the mainframe fosters a risk of acculturation. Aesthetically, it is vital to integrate modern and traditional art to appreciate the implications of the evolutionary process. Art exists in different forms thus the importance of appreciating the transition from the classical era to the present artistic structures and perceptions.
Relevance of Art’s Evolutionary in UAE
The UAE is one of the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council hence attaining optimal support concerning economic development. As an Islamic state, the government highly regards Muslims and their beliefs despite the incorporation of diversity-based religious practices and policies. The UAE administration further advocates creativity and innovation under the spectrum of distinctive elements, such as sports and architecture (Al Sallal et al., 2018). Historically, the Emiratis were nomads living in an arid and semi-arid area. However, technological advancement and unity fostered growth and diversification of socio-economic and political domains. Emerging artists are representatives of UAE entrepreneurs utilizing conceptions as formative strategies to intensify business practices within the country and abroad.
Over the decades, one of the significant challenges affecting the distribution of benefits in the UAE entails gender disparity in the participation scale concerning business growth and development. Evolution steered by technological advancement fostered the necessity of equity despite gender identity. UAE is one of the countries due to the focus on enhancing sustainability practice across the enterprise world. As a result, different government institutions focused on achieving the primary goal of boosting business performance against the outlying essence of independence. The emergent concept that stimulated the emergence of UAE as one of the safest countries globally is the advocacy for the participation of all parties. In research, entities rendered implementation process of entrepreneurial empowerment initiatives among men and women to enhance gender equality. The UAE government seeks to establish an economy that empowers locals with optimal productivity while appreciating the globalization mainframe (Salisbury, 2020). Globalization emerged as a result of effective technological advancement. In this case, individuals from different states significantly exchanged information and networked, causing a global village loop.
It is the responsibility of government institutions to implement policies that steer social justice and equality. Ethnicity and gender differences negatively affected the quality of interactions among personnel, causing an uproar among the UAE. Therefore, the UAE government implemented business policies to improve a sustainable enterprise environment for investors despite gender differences. Different indicators attributed to the establishment of competent business and entrepreneurs’ empowerment, such as advancing infrastructure and talent management among residents. Dubai is one of the cities that encounters a significant change in determining the quality of interaction among locals, promoting sustainability. As one of the ideal tourist destinations globally, the UAE government offers incentives among men and women to intensify the trickle-down effect of accrued benefits among the residents with minimal revenue leakage (Salisbury, 2020). Despite the influx of clients in the country, the nation faces an increase in foreign workers whose salaries are transferred to their respective countries’ bank accounts. As a result, it is crucial to appreciate UAE entrepreneurs’ empowerment in the spectral view of entrepreneurial opportunities.
In the digital era, online business boomed fostering a prominent impact on national economic growth and development. Research by Krzymowski (2022) establishes that the digitization of dynamic economic activities demands the implementation of policies empowering entrepreneurs in the UAE. The researchers further illustrate that promoting gender equality within the entrepreneurial world is an opportunity within the UAE economic spectrum to enhance profitability and growth. Apart from advocating for empowerment, it is crucial to establish key variants that influence men and women involvement in business establishment and management. Empowerment encapsulates the indication of major factors enhancing effective decision-making. There are dynamic government interventions that elevate the performance of business entities. However, it is vital that the parties involved focus on promoting sustainability by appreciating productivity within the scope of distinct problem-solving perspectives.
The personal traits of an individual attribute to the capacity of investing in entrepreneurial opportunities. In the study by Erie (2019), the research indicates profound results regarding the personality values that foster the emergence of entrepreneurs. The investigation encapsulated assessing the core factors that render students as entrepreneurs. In this case, the factors derived included entrepreneurial confidence, orientation, cultural support, and learning institutions’ support for entrepreneurship. Despite the dynamic indicators, Erie (2019) established that entrepreneurial confidence is significantly attributed to engagement in entrepreneurship. Primarily, the research indicates that effective entrepreneurship empowerment enshrines advocacy for entrepreneurial confidence among distinct parties. Optimal integration of values fosters proficiency in appreciating individuality and the development of a productive investor across the UAE.
It is the responsibility of the UAE government to incorporate measures that advocate equality within the scope of entrepreneurial empowerment. UAE is one of the Asian countries highly developing mainly because of prominent investment in infrastructural development. The intensification in urbanization attributes to the establishment of a suitable investment environment for foreigners. Empowering entrepreneurs in UAE is an approach that fosters equipping individuals with proficient skills and knowledge for innovative and business perspectives (Pauceanu et al., 2021). Apart from advocating for the influx of foreign investors in Dubai, it is important to intensify the pool of residents engaging in entrepreneurial opportunities. The strategy elevates the trickle-down effect on accrual benefits based on the participation of residents in business practices. Major initiatives that promote entrepreneurial empowerment include financial literacy and determining distinct government intervention techniques. The advocacy for entrepreneurial empowerment is a multidimensional aspect that enhances optimal business competition and the adoption of innovative techniques elevating standards of operations.
Analysis Framework
Social growth and development is an entity that encompasses the interplay of dynamic elements to boost performance outlier. The different ideologies that render an understanding to challenges facing emerging artists include functionalism and Marxism that profoundly establish a relationship between human behavioral patterns and virtuosity (Akhmetshin et al., 2018). Functionalism defines society as a multidimensional phenomenon whose advancement depends on the coordination among all stakeholders. Marxism indicates that capitalism is an essential factor within the populace since it asserts the balance between the rich and the laborers. According to the Marxism framework, the significance of commercialism is the provision of opportunities to workers in equally accumulating wealth akin to the employers. Marxism and functionalism prominently explore the effect of imbalance in the distribution of resources among individuals. The mainframe interwove promotion of art as alleviation of key challenges among the emerging artists.
Methodological Considerations
Research Questions
Main Research Question
What challenges are emerging artists facing in the emerging art scene?
Secondary Research Questions
What is the contrast between traditional and modern art?
What are the challenges facing emerging artists?
What is the implication of issues among artists to emerging art scenes?
The research process entails a qualitative method using case studies for the assessment of the challenges affecting emerging artists in the emerging art scenes. This study focuses on the necessity of incorporating measures that alleviate negative effects on the societies and promotion of traditional and modern art. Innovation is an essential element across the global domain enhancing socio-cultural identity. The exploration of Hong Kong, Singapore, and UAE cultural facets fosters an understanding of evolutionary gradient and dynamic implications.
Analysis and Discussion
Different countries significantly promote the art scene across distinct practices despite the emergent challenges. One of the major issues in artistry is the integration of traditional and modern art. Krzymowski (2022) postulates that the UAE proficiently supports innovation among the citizens based on the incorporation of policies enhancing entrepreneurial opportunities. The study further establishes that common art scenes promoted in the UAE include live performances, such as Arabic dances, dressing codes, and culinary elements. In this case, researchers articulate that the locals significantly embrace traditional dressing, dances, and culinary practices. The components attribute to the establishment of social identity among individuals despite advocating unity. Nevertheless, there is a profound conflict among designers due to the intersection of the digitization era demanding globalization of artistry.
Traditional art in UAE encapsulates the prominent features portraying the foundation of Emiratis’ cultural framework. It is the responsibility of government institutions to incorporate dynamic aspects that render sustainable practices. Despite the contrast between abstract and realism, it is vital to establish approaches that enhance the preservation of the aesthetic value. The core foundation of art is creativity hence the importance of implementing guidelines protecting the key meaning of a construct. In this case, the UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore residents significantly maintain their traditions and incorporate minimal modernist dimensions.
Conclusion
It is crucial to establish policies that promote interdependence between traditional and modern art to alleviate the core challenges. The main issues affecting emerging artists include the digitization of art and the intensification of technological advancement. Although the frameworks render an empowerment tool to diversify perspectives, it is crucial to indicate vital entities that protect aesthetic essence. UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore prominently preserve their conventional cultural practices to boost social identity among personalities while advocating morality and ethical domains.
References
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Salsa music is predominant in Latin America. However, it is difficult to define the term salsa. This is because there is no concise definition of the term that is applicable when one is talking about salsa music. Salsa is a term borrowed from Spanish language and it refers to a spiced up cuisine in Latin and Caribbean culture. Since every culture values its traditional dishes and spices are used to make food attractive and sweeter, then one can say that salsa refers to a very beautiful and attractive music.
In addition, sweet food is made up of different components meaning that even salsa music is made up of different styles and variations. This could explain the reason why up to date we do not have a concise definition of this beautiful music. In general terms salsa music could be taken to mean a very smooth and beautiful music which has a very joyful and vibrant carnival beat with rhythms that have roots in Africa, Caribbean and Latin origins. The term is mostly used when were referring to a famous Cuban music genre especially chacha. This essay is going to describe the emergence of this new music genre and its development from a historical point of view. Great musicians who molded this genre will also be highlighted in the discussion.
Origin of Salsa Music
The origin of salsa music is as complex as it is definition. However, musicians and historians agree that salsa music must have originated in Latin America. It was introduced in Latin America by Africans who were shipped into the region by Spaniards as slaves. African had a very elaborate musical instruments such as conga and different percussion instruments and it is believed that they introduced these instruments in the region. In addition, these instruments are heavily used in salsa music. Others believe that emergence of salsa has a relationship with social upheavals in the region. Therefore we end up having two schools of thought when we are tracing the origin of salsa music. The first schools of thought represent those who believe that salsa music originated in Cuba.
According to the first school of thought the ‘Cuban Son’ laid the foundation of what today we refer to as salsa music’ (Lamadrid, 2005). Cuban son appeared in 1917 in Havana. During this period the Danzon dance was very popular in Cuba. Danzon dance was an old music style that dated back to 1879 and was embraced both by the elite and the commoners in the society, but it could not prevent emergence of Cuban Son. The son borrowed lot from Danzon dance but its form was different.
Additionally, the son had very distinct music and sound that was totally different from the Danzon. This uniqueness was brought about by the use of percussion and rhythms introduced by Africans as mentioned earlier. Lamadrid (2005) asserts that ‘the son originated specifically in Oriente Provence, which is located in the eastern region of Cuba. Apart from musical instruments with African origin other instruments were invented in order to flavor to the Son. They included: bongos, marimburala, quijada, timbales criollos, cowbell, botijuela, and the diente de arodo.
According to the second school of thought, salsa emerged as a result of period of social upheavals especially by minorities in 1960s in Cuba (Manuel et al, 1991, pg. 89). Social upheavals developed new social consciousness in the region and this in turn called for new musical movement in the region. The logical musical vehicle for this was not the perceived quint and folksy seis or plena but modernized Cuban dance music especially the conjunto-style son. This is how salsa was introduced in the region.
History of Salsa
After the emergence of salsa in 1960s many people developed interest in it and slowly it closed borders. It was first introduced in New York before spreading to other parts in the globe. Ilich (2009, pg 22) commenting on the same theme notes that ‘musicians from Cuba performed in new York in 1960.’ In addition, these performers brought their native rhythms and with time salsa evolved. Meeting of different performers from Cuba, Mexico and Puerto Rico in New York resulted in development of different versions which later on came to be known as Cuban Salsa, Colombian salsa, Mexico Salsa and Puerto Rico salsa.
In 1970s development of salsa took a new twist. More salsa bands both in New York and in other parts in Latin America were formed (Leymarie et al, 2003, pg. 267). At the same time radio stations that played pure salsa music all the time emerged. Additionally, recording of salsa music by these bands took a center stage meaning that more people could buy this music and listen it in their automobiles and at home. Although this music was available in the music stores popular salsa performers also emerged and they did a lot in promoting salsa in the whole world.
In 1980s salsa was well recognized as a famous music genre in the world. This popularity encouraged composers to diversify their topics. As a result salsa Romantica took the center stage and love and romance themes dominated salsa that was composed around this period (Steward, pg 493). At around this time lock music became very popular and its popularity pushed salsa to the background. This is due to the fact that rock music attracted large numbers of Latino youths and thus its lovers declined in number. It is important to note that the youth loves and have interest in music than adults and this is why salsa was heavily affected. Today salsa is still common and many people are joining salsa dancing clubs.
Instrumentation
A good piece of salsa required different instruments. However, the common and the most basic instrument in salsa is the percussion (“Salsa”, 2009). Percussion refers to an object which produces a sound when it is hit using a compliment. It can also produce sound through shaking, rubbing, scraping or by other means which force the object to vibrate. Percussion basically is made up by different instruments such as claves, cowbells, timbales and conga.
The cowbell also known as cencerro is made from very hard metal (Turner, 2004). The cowbell is used in playing very strong rhythms. Although heavy metals are used during its manufacture the instrument is not that heavy. This is because the musician has to hold it in his/her palm. He then strikes the metal with a short metal stick or a wooden stick. The instrument can produce two different sounds depending on the part that is being hit; the upper part and the edges produces these two different sounds and it’s upon the musician to choose which sound he wants.
Timbales on the other hand are drums metal casing and they originated in Cuba. Timbales differ from ordinary drums in that they are single headed while the other ones are double headed. The musician produces sound by hitting the metal case with either a wooden or a metal rod. Percussion is complimented by other instruments such as trumpets and trombones. In the recent past other melodic instruments such as guitar and piano have been integrated in salsa in order to give it a contemporary face.
Subgenre (salsa dance)
As salsa evolved over time new and different genres were invented. The most famous genre is salsa Romantica which was invented in 1980s as aforementioned. This genre maintained its popularity up to 1990 and was common in New York and Puerto Rica. Salsa Romantica was invented by musicians for purely commercial purposes and this is why it concentrated on romantic themes such as love messages. This genre represented a soft salsa which was totally different from the hard hitting orchestras witnessed in 1970s.
It is important to note that in 1960-1970s salsa music provided an avenue for airing society’s social and political problems. In 1960 for instance, salsa music highlighted social differences that existed among Latinos and African Americans. Introduction of salsa Romantica which deviated from traditional salsa thus represent a change of values and norms in the society. Salsa dancing styles have also changed with time.
Carlos (2005) notes that ‘different dancing styles represents different cultures of the dancer.’ The names of the style depict the region from which dancers comes. The most common dancing styles include: on-1, on-2, and on-3. Salsa on-1 style is the traditional style whereby the man is the leader and the woman is the follower (Carlos, 2005). This style is danced in closed or the famous European position with the dancers facing one another. Salsa on-2 style starts with both feet close together, the dancers hold the beat, followed by a step forward with the left foot. Then roll back to the right foot, step back with the left foot, hold the beat again, followed by a step back with the right foot and then the procedure is repeated.
Salsa on-3 starts as the second one. However, you break forward with your left foot, rock back onto your right foot, step back with the left foot, shift weight onto the left foot, step back again using the right foot, rock back onto the left foot and step forward with the right foot.
Greatest Artist
Over the years we have witnessed emergence of great salsa artists. They include:
Ray Barreto: He was born in 1929 in Puerto Rica. He is famously known as the father of Latin jazz and he has won a Grammy award. He died in 2006.
Eddie Palmieri: He was born in 1936 in Puerto Rica. He has also won a Grammy award for his contribution in the music industry. He was among the first person to introduce and perform salsa in America in 1960s and his band then was known as Conjunto La Perfecta.
Celia cruz: She was born in Cuba in 1925 and she died in 2003. She was regarded as the best salsa performer of the 20th century and during her music career she recorded 23 albums. Due to her music prowess she was nicknamed the queen of salsa.
Jose Alberto: His real name is Jose Alberto Justiniano and he was born in 1958 in Dominican Republic. He later on moved to Puerto Rico where he started his music career as salsa musician. He formed his own band in 1983 and in 1981 he introduced salsa Romantica which is a heavily criticized salsa genre.
Ricardo levmo: He is a well renowned salsa and rhumba player with Congolese origin. He is a contemporary salsa artist and he fuses African beats with salsa beats. Although he is young in the industry his songs still carry traditional messages. For instance, in his song titled São Salvador he talks of an ancient kingdom in his home country. Thus his songs are not for commercial purposes alone, they have a lot of cultural information in them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, salsa music has its roots in Latin America. It is characterized by the use of percussion but today other melodic accompaniments such as piano and guitar are used. Traditionally salsa music was used as a society’s mouthpiece but currently salsa music is composed for commercial purposes. Different salsa genres and dancing styles have also evolved keeping up with changes that are taking place in the social fabric. In future, more African based and European based salsa dancers are going to emerge adding flavor to salsa music.
Work cited
Carlos, J. Salsa dance steps. Web.
Ilch, Tijana. Latin Music: From Cuba To New York To You. New York: Alphine pyublishers,pp 20-40
Lamadrid, J. F. The Cuban Son. 2009. Web.
Leymarie, S. Cuban Fire: The Story of Salsa and Latin Jazz. London: Continuum publishers, pp 265-271
Manuel, P. L., Bilby, K. M. and Largey, M. D: Caribbean Currents: Caribbean Music From Rumba To Reggae. New York: Temple University Press, 2006 pp
Manuel, P. (ed.): Essays On Cuban Music: North America and Cuban Perspectives. Maryland: University press of America. 1991, pp 80-95
Salsa Music. 2009. Web.
Steward, S. World Music, Volume 2. London: Rough Guides, pp 487-501
