Daniel Joseph Martinez

1. How do you feel in America, do you feel like an equal, like the racial issue is controlled?
2. How important is equality to you?
3. Have you always felt that people have dealt fairly with you?

The castle is burning was an interesting piece. I knew that he would be an artist intent on making us aware of how our government is messed up and how racial issues aren’t being dealt with properly. I thought it was interesting how he put it there knowing it would cause a stir and problems. I bet he wanted it to, he wanted people to be aware how racial our country really is. That was the pieces purpose. The title was perfect as well. Clever man.

Also, I was waiting for a artist to be a non conformist artist, one who doesn’t want to make art to sell or make it to be enjoyed visually. He wants to make people think, conjure up thoughts and questions. When he is invited to galleries, he goes all out and tries to make a statement. That’s bravery right there. Im surprised the governemtn hasn’t been involved, but then again im not, because he has those freedoms that are guaranteed to Americans.

I think the racial issue is ridiculous. I cant comprehend why it is even an issue. Who cares about the color of the skin, it does not mean we think and act differently. Every person is a person, no matter what they look like. Racists have always bothered me, but we can thank te media for expanding the idea of racism, movies and what not. People like to do what they are told when they are entertained, if a celebrity is making racist omments, then they want to too. CANT WE ALL JUST GET ALONG!!

He wants radicalism. He is so dedicated to his beliefs. He wants to make a statement, he wants change to come around. I cant imagine every praising negative reviews like they did on his exhibition in new york with the museum tags. But that’s what he wanted!! He wanted to take a stand, crazy!

Evidently, equality and racism are a big part of his life and ideals. They affect him greatly and you can see that in almost all of his work. He wants to make a difference, make people think and stand up for what they believe.

1. Do you ever worry about your safety when making all of these pieces on racism?
2. Why do you think that racism is still a big deal in America, do you think it will ever go away?
3. Would you ever have a gallery or exhibition that didn’t create controversy?