Earnestness Theorums is a series of diagrams and theorums through which the artist explores how earnestness is perceived and received. The first two sets emphasize the importance of how the artist’s intention is perceived. The later sets considers the impact of the viewer's psychological contribution.
 

The artist wishes to thank Anthony Daniel Ryan and Anu Vikram for their input.

Images

Earnestness Theorums, 2011
fluorescent and glitter pen on gridded vellum, 11 x 8.5 inches / 28 x 21.5 cm

• Given that art object = artist + earnestness, if viewer’s perception of earnestness = genuine commitment, then viewer's response = sincerity and/or curiosity.
• Given that art object = artist + earnestness, if viewer's perception of earnestness = naive idealism, then viewer's response = cynicism and/or ridicule.
• Given that art object = artist + earnestness, if viewer + courage, then response to earnestness = sincerity and/or curiosity.
• Given that art object = artist + earnestness, if viewer + fear, then response to earnestness = cynicism and/or ridicule.