Art History. Surrealism, Absurdism and Postmodernism
Summary
Blindboy reflects on the podcast industry’s shift toward video formats, arguing it is driven by data needs for AI training rather than listener preference, which threatens the unique literary nature of audio-only shows. He celebrates the opening of his play "Animals" at the Abbey Theatre, discussing how polarized critical reviews validate artistic risk-taking and personal transformation. The episode also covers his upcoming UK tour, a new appearance on the "A View From A Bridge" podcast, and a detailed art history breakdown of surrealism, postmodernism, and absurdism.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship: Mod.com and menopause care
Welcome and podcast longevity reflection
The shift from audio to video podcasts
AI data needs and the doom scroll machine
Costs of video production vs audio independence
Editing freedom in audio vs visual continuity
Podcast mainstreaming and celebrity impact
Listener stories and the passage of time
The play 'Animals' and its origins
Handling bad reviews and artistic risk
Ocarina pause and art history segment intro
Tour announcements: UK and Australia dates
Sponsorships: Midi, Noom, and Toast
Tour updates and running injuries
Critique of modern criticism and homogenization
Personal history: teaching and early career
Debunking the critic's art history claims
Flann O'Brien, surrealism, and Irish literature
Samuel Beckett and the concept of absurdity
Rebutting specific points in the negative review
Audience response vs critical permanence
Sponsorships: Citizens Bank and Onnit
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