IMPROVISATION
What is aesthetic improvisation?
Improvisation occurs when attempts are made, to one extent or another, to break the conventional boundaries of semiotic expression in what is offered to society. Artists often see this as part of their “creative license.” In recent years the new technologies (computers and communications) have been used in this improvisation. The Internet was itself new not so long ago, and now some of its uses are right on the leading edge of improvisation (blogs, FaceBook, video and music sharing, etc.). Nevertheless, there are problems with such improvisations. The innovation process will inevitably change some of the features and characteristics of previous modes – if these existing forms have been copyrighted, trademarked, or patented, the property rights in these versions may inhibit or disallow changes to them. Technological ways are often found to do an “end run” around such restrictions, but in many cases they are not, with the result that either the proposed improvisation is discontinued, or a financial settlement is reached between the parties concerned, with the improvisers paying for the right to infringe on the configuration of established modes.
The other major problem with improvisation is the fashion-driven “change for the sake of change” syndrome. Things are replaced not because they have worn out or are obsolete, but rather because a new model has a new colour, a fancier look, or is suddenly popular for some other reason. Improvisers usually can’t resist adopting these new stylistic changes because it gives them a chance to “get on the bandwagon on its way to the bank.” Improvisation that seems like little more than stylistic change may seem harmless, but it helps create a social psychology in which we all become novelty junkies. The waste in time, effort, money, and discarded objects is ignored in deference to a process of social differentiation that leads to increasing individuation in search of idiosyncrasy.
How is improvisation used?
The Fashion Industry employs designers, models, garment workers, and promoters in a multi- million-dollar extravaganza every year. Software and hardware firms give us mostly new versions and occasionally new gizmos every year. Automobile manufacturers give us new paint- jobs, new trim, and more electronics every year. The Home Furnishings Industry provides a “make-over” to refrigerators, sofas, beds, chairs & tables, and multiple other furnishings every year. Cereal manufacturers change the shape of their cereal bits from “squares” to “diamonds,” or something similar every year. The creators of this “newness” swear that it is important, and the consumers continue to buy it. But although all of this may indeed be improvisation, is it really worthwhile? Not for my money it’s not - junk is still junk, no matter how fashionable and popular. You be the judge for your own wallet.
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