My project, entitled "Wholesome," is an exploration of YouTube-based depictions of what, exactly, "Wholesome" means to people. What began as a search for definition turned quickly into an analysis of wholesome femininity as portrayed through popular opinion. Popular opinion, in this case, is represented almost exclusively by male YouTubers.
Working with community opinions and ideas means that content is restricted to what other people share with the world, and that shared content tends to come from a vocal, media-savvy population subset. In the case of "Wholesome," the only information available on wholesome girls was posted by males. The videos in "Wholesome" range from subtle--advertising tween underwear from 'noslutwear.com'-- and not-so-subtle--YouTuber nigahiga describing the modest dress and body standards required for a wholesome gal. Additional segments include a Julie Andrews "wholesome test," a strange cultish video about burning witches, and a drunken man stating he needs a loving girl, and an acerbic rap about public opinion of Miley Cyrus. The resulting conglomerate of videos describes the subjective, amorphous definition of wholesome femininity found online.
YouTube sculpting allows for a beautiful, subtle social commentary on prevalent issues. Since the content already comes from digital media, the integration of the issue in pop culture/opinion is irrefutable. There are, however, downsides to this brand of appropriation art: The message can be too subtle. The artist has no aesthetic control. Being pointed and/or concise is difficult. Appropriation art sacrifices a great deal of artistic constructivity, which proved a little difficult for me. Although I was able to create a project of sorts, "Wholesome" feels more like a supercut than video art or social critique. I found most of my meaning when I painstakingly cut the video together, and I'm afraid it doesn't quite make sense without an unreasonable level of engagement by the viewer.
YouTube appropriation art is an extraordinary opportunity to work with community opinions and ideas. Content is entirely restricted to the videos that others share with the world and how the owners tag that media, and meaning is restricted to the author's ability to find cohesion in the conglomerate. This brand of appropriation art allows for realistic explorations of vocalized opinions and personal engagement with social issues, although it tips precariously close to mastercuts and compilations.
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