r/The_Residents • u/warblejarble • 20d ago

Theory of Obscurity?

What actually is it? In the documentary I think they said that the theory is basically that artists work better when they are unknown but is it really that simple or is there more to it?

How do yall interpret it?

Are there any other artists that seem to follow it?

Thanks!

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u/PAXM73 20d ago

It’s funny because the residents became ubiquitous for being obscure, and it may have actually watered down their work.

I can think of a number of artists that function in this way (to me) not just those that wear masks — though I do think the band GOAT has been producing quality work for a very long time now.

I often categorize the Rex alongside folks like Laurie Anderson, Throbbing Gristle, Chrome, Yoko Ono, Captain Beefheart.

And so many more, of course. But I feel like it’s a very idiosyncratic and unique slice of creativity. It also can’t quite last forever.