Some folks consider first word art as the only true art and believe last word art isn’t art at all. Why bother if it’s already been done?

Naimark’s essay poses a dichotomy between first word art and last word art – that art is either disruptive and pioneering or the pinnacle of an existing idea. It can either open doors or close them for the art to come. He challenges the idea that all creativity should contribute to refinement of existing principles. First word art is often not regarded as groundbreaking when it is introduced; rather, it is proved to be revolutionary by the acts that follow, deriving inspiration. An example of this is Richard Hamilton’s influence on the onset of the pop art movement, and how he paved the way for iconic figures like Warhol.

This text, in a way, encourages art to ask questions, experiment, and create something new, as it makes room for art that isn’t necessarily the best, but is the first. This shifted my perspective on how I view my own work and the art I consume, challenging myself to take risks and allowing room for failure and growth. This essay affirms the importance of art as an influential force in culture, and inspired me to think about how the communication in my work can influence opinions and lives.

First word art and last word art may ideologically divide the world in two, but they are not necessarily mutually exclusive.