Ways of Seeing - A Video by John Berger, Ep. 1 (1972)
In John Berger's "Ways of Seeing" video, he shows how art and images have been shaped by culture and context throughout history. Berger challenges the traditional notion of art appreciation, asserting that the way we perceive visual imagery is heavily influenced by societal norms and the presence of the viewer. By dissecting the role of things like advertising and oil paintings, he exposes the hidden layers of meaning embedded in visual culture. Berger's insights remind us that our understanding of art is not merely passive, but rather an active process deeply intertwined with the world around us, urging viewers to critically examine the ways in which they see and engage with the visual world.