Humanities and Arts
Angels with Guns: A Memoir on Guy Brett (and David Medalla)
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Abstract
In the mind of anyone who knew them and their work, the British art critic and curator Guy Brett and the Filipino mixed-media and performance artist David Medalla formed a pair. Which is why, though it might sound awful, I was not overly surprised by the news that Guy had died (February 2, 2021) just over a month after David (December 28, 2020). It was as if the former had waited for permission to die from the latter. Guy had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the end of 2013, and the deterioration of his health had accelerated in the last months of his life. As for David, it was Guy who had informed me of his stroke in his letter of April 25, 2018. He added: “I was profoundly shaken up by the whole event. I felt the vulnerability of David who I had all always thought was invincible.”
Key Questions
What is the focus of the memoir?
The memoir focuses on the lives and artistic contributions of Guy Brett and David Medalla. It reflects on their relationships, artistic practices, and impact on the world of contemporary art, particularly in the context of experimental and conceptual movements.
Who are Guy Brett and David Medalla?
Guy Brett was a renowned British curator and critic, known for his support of avant-garde and conceptual art. David Medalla was a Filipino artist whose works spanned various media, including sculpture, installations, and performance art. Both were influential figures in the development of modern art.
How does the memoir connect their artistic legacies?
The memoir intertwines the artistic practices and relationships of Brett and Medalla, illustrating their collaboration and mutual influence. It highlights their shared vision of art that transcends traditional boundaries and engages with global and political concerns.
What themes are explored in the memoir?
The memoir explores themes such as the intersection of art and politics, the role of collaboration in creative practices, and the evolving nature of artistic expression in the 20th and 21st centuries. It also reflects on the personal connection between Brett and Medalla, and their shared experiences in the art world.
What role did Guy Brett play in the development of contemporary art?
Guy Brett played a pivotal role as a curator, critic, and writer in shaping contemporary art discourse. He was instrumental in promoting and writing about conceptual art, experimental practices, and global art movements, helping to give visibility to artists like Medalla who defied traditional art forms.
What is the significance of David Medalla's work?
David Medalla's work was significant for its engagement with notions of time, space, and movement, often incorporating elements of performance and audience participation. His art challenged conventional approaches to sculpture and installation, and he became an important figure in global art movements like Fluxus and the Manila avant-garde scene.
How does the memoir contribute to the understanding of their artistic relationship?
The memoir provides a personal and intimate look at the relationship between Guy Brett and David Medalla, offering insights into their collaborations, shared philosophies, and the mutual respect they had for each other's artistic practices. It also touches on how their friendship influenced their respective works and careers.
What impact did their work have on the global art community?
Brett and Medalla's work had a profound impact on the global art community, particularly in the context of experimental and conceptual art. Their collaborations helped bring attention to non-Western perspectives in contemporary art, and their advocacy for cross-cultural dialogue continues to resonate in today’s artistic landscape.
