Artists use different techniques to enhance their own individual message or perspective, whether it be distinctively clear or subtle. Artists such as Martin Parr and Nick Danziger explore identity of the individual by representing life's journey through the technique of photography. Whilst Grayson Perry explores identity and what is represents through different forms of art, whether as miniatures, large tapestries, statues or pots. Art is the representation of the many elements of human life. It is the expression of emotion, the representation of life experiences and it can also be the representation of people and events. Identity can be represented as well as constructed in the arts. Many do this in diverse and individual ways. Martin Parr's artwork is acclaimed to be brash, colour-satured images of the lives and foibles of regular folk. Nick Danziger's photo montage illustrates a very different approach to represent and construct his identity. His artwork explores the traditional view of Britain as a once-grand, now-declining nation and the life's journey each must take in order to construct one's true identity. Grayson Perry, winner of the 2003 Turner Prize, uses the seductive qualities of ceramics and other art forms to make stealthy comments about societal injustices and hypocrisies, and to explore a variety of historical and contemporary themes.
However, it is not only these three artists that explore identity. There are numerous artists who explore identity in a variety of ways. Some more subtle than others. This is because identity can be explored in so many different ways.
Identity can be defined as individual characteristics by which a person is recognised or known. "Art is a mirror image of a person's identity, circle of influence, and perceived worlds or realities. Art reflects what we feel, think, practice, believe or image." (Gaskins. N, 2010). Both Martin Parr and Nick Danziger represent their artwork in different ways by taking different approaches.
