The Idea Of Differ�nce

Submitted By ivyli1113
Words: 453
Pages: 2

Derrida brought out the idea of differánce to discuss where the meaning/being lies. He believed that meaning comes out of the play of differences, and individual meaning exists only by its contrast with others, which creates differences. It lies within the negative space. Furthermore, differences originate from the history and space, and thus Derrida created the word “differánce” to trace the ever-changing differences in spacing and temporization. He states that differránce includes difference, differing and deferring. Differánce is the trace; it is above the ontological idea of being, and it is not a sign nor does it have a meaning.

The idea of differánce reminds me of Zeng Hao’s oil painting series, which depict interior space as a critique in the rapid transformation in contemporary China. However, the titles of these paintings indicate an uncertain moment and space, eg. Friday 5pm. When and where is Friday 5 pm? The fragmented uncertainty put the artworks into a lost time and space, and therefore the difference the artist trying to capture is differed. It can be everywhere and within every moment; the significance is constantly changing.

Krauss discussed the notion of originality and repetition. She opened up the discussion by using Rodin’s sculptures as an example, since a lot of recasts were produced after his death. Krauss stated that Rodin’s works were inherently reproducible and therefore there was no questioning of authenticity. She then moved on to talk about the concept of grid in Avant-Garde Art. Grid itself was never original and therefore has always been a repetition. By saying that, Krauss continuously attenuated the importance of originality, as there was barely one. She also brought up other artists, such as