Generic Art Solutions
GENERIC ART SOLUTIONS (G.A.S.)
The establishment of the collaborative team Generic Art Solutions came after what may very well have been two years worth of discussions between myself and artist Tony Campbell. While we both had formal training in a number of mediums, neither of us felt tethered to a single one. We agreed that each medium has its own advantages, as does any tool in the shed. He and I have our own specific qualities as well, and it was agreed to employ them strategically whenever we deemed most advantageously.
In this team effort, we treat each other as equals; and our presentation reinforces that concept. Weather we are in the studio or in public, we dress alike--often in workmen’s uniforms and equip ourselves with the same tools. We feel strength in this unity a type of artistic solidarity and we refer to ourselves as “Brothers in Art”. We share a conceptual affinity for Joseph Beuys’ idea that everyone is an artist.
The first joint decision we were faced with was “What do we call ourselves?”. We agreed that our individual names should be replaced by a single title, like a team name, but we wanted it to live in the realm of product advertisement. I thought it would be a good idea to be the “Mr. Goodwrench” of the art world, and Tony suggested “Generic Art Solutions” (G.A.S.). I expressed my reservation that “generic” products in the U.S. were devoid of style, and that the quality of such products were questionable. Tony maintained that in England (where he was born and raised) “generic” referred to a streamlined version of popular products that defined contemporary styling. We came to agree that multiple interpretations of this title would be a good thing, as it found application in the entire rage of styles of all products. Generic Art Solutions was born.
Matt Vis
