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Noses & Ears, Etc.

John Baldessari's Noses & Ears, Etc. (2006-2007) series exemplifies his innovative approach to conceptual art, focusing on the isolation and examination of human features against minimalistic backgrounds. This period in Baldessari's work continued his exploration of body parts, which began with series like Noses and Ears and extended into Arms and Legs, showcasing isolated features on a color field to highlight and dissect the nuances of perception and representation.


In creating the Noses & Ears, Etc. series, Baldessari utilized screen-printed images constructed in three layers on sintra, a rigid foam board, complemented with hand painting. This method allowed for a dynamic interplay between the two-dimensional print and the tactile quality of paint, offering a fresh perspective on the fragmented human form. A notable publication from Gemini G.E.L. in 2007, titled God Nose, accompanied this series, featuring a cast aluminum piece indicative of the thematic focus of the series​ (Wikipedia)​.


Baldessari's interest in the arbitrary systems of rules, akin to language and games, is evident in his approach to art. He engaged in sequences of actions attempting to achieve a set goal under arbitrary conditions, such as Throwing Three Balls in the Air to Get a Straight Line (1973), further emphasizing the process over the product in art creation. This method of working underlines the conceptual framework behind Noses & Ears, Etc., where the focus is placed on the act of selection, manipulation, and presentation of images rather than on traditional artistic craftsmanship​ (Wikipedia)​.


Moreover, Baldessari's broader body of work, including the Noses & Ears, Etc. series, often incorporates elements of pointing, directing viewers' attention to specific details or concepts, thus engaging them in a dialogue about the nature of art, perception, and the construction of meaning. Through such works, Baldessari has firmly established himself as a pivotal figure in conceptual art, continually pushing the boundaries of how art is created, viewed, and understood​ (Wikipedia)​.