By Matthew Bramlett Staff Writer One of the most well-known and sought-after street artists may not even exist. Mr. Brainwash, the eccentric filmmaker turned artist whose real name is Thierry Guetta, has seen his image and personal brand explode in recent years. It began in 2008 with his debut art show “Life is Beautiful,” and continueswith his starring turn in graffiti artist Banksy's documentary on the growing street art phenomenon, Exit Through the Gift Shop. Since Banksy's film opened last year, Mr. Brainwash (or, rather, the idea of Mr. Brainwash,) has been the subject of much speculation. All across the Internet, there have been different sources claiming that not only … [Read more...] about Purposeful portrait or preposterous prank?
anonymity
Anonymity leads to animosity
By Rachel Cannon Staff Writer A news reporter whose migraine headache caused her to garble her speech on air during the Grammys has sparked a discussion about how the Internet is affecting our sense of empathy. The video clip of reporter Serene Branson’s “meltdown” quickly went viral, and all over the Internet, users were watching, laughing and making fun. It soon spread beyond the Internet; disk jockeys were joking at Branson’s expense on the radio as well. This behavior is outrageous and uncalled for – it suggests a lapse in our collective humanity. At least part of the fault of this shocking loss of empathy may lie squarely with the Internet. In the age of online video, we … [Read more...] about Anonymity leads to animosity