You Are Responsible for Constituting the Meaning of Things

Jenny Holzer's work has evolved since the late 70s, yet there are qualities which remain vital to the core aspects of Holzer's concepts regarding art. It is intended to be seen by many, pondered over, and deciphered by the general public. She now exhibits work in a wide variety of mediums to address more acutely cultural issues. Adjusting to new spaces and a shifting social landscape, Holzer retains a devotion to utilizing clear, direct language. Other details have changed: simple texts paper led to complex displays employing light, color, and other mediums (marble, skin, and bone, i.e.). Audiences are often a select group of "art" cognoscenti who seek her texts, rather than original street viewers who were caught off guard by the appearance of texts in public places. Holzer now culls writings from poets or utilizes governmentdocuments; installations are more intricate and complex, moving from outdoor to gallery and museum spaces. This publication addresses the mechanisms by which Holzer's texts achieve their potency, and enumerates similarities and differences between the series Holzer has created through her career up to her Redaction Paintings.