The Neo-Absurdist Manifesto

Introduction

Although the Neo-Absurdist manifesto is rooted in the philosophies of Existentialism and Absurdism, it does not aspire to significantly contribute to serious scholarship in any field of Philosophy. A humble and genuine tip of the hat to Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus is warranted, as the Neo-Absurdist acknowledges the manifesto is nowhere near the same intellectual universe as the writings of these accomplished philosophers.

Neo-Absurdist Art is a contemporary movement inspired by the ideas of Absurdism, a philosophical viewpoint that life has no inherent meaning or purpose. In Neo-Absurdist Art, the boundaries between what is real and what is not are blurred, and the artist often creates works that are surreal, unconventional, and challenge the viewer's perceptions of reality. This type of art is characterized by bold colors, strange forms, and a disregard for traditional conventions of beauty. Influences can be traced to the provocative energy of the Italian Futurists, whose works sought to reject the past and embrace modernity through dynamic movement and abstraction, as well as to the New York School of Abstract Impressionism, where artists sought to evoke raw emotion and confront viewers with the chaotic and existential nature of human experience.

The goal of Neo-Absurdist Art is to challenge the viewer to question their beliefs and assumptions about the world, while presenting a new and unconventional view of reality. It embraces the absurd condition of existence, recognizing its futility, while defiantly creating meaning through the act of creation itself. Similarly, it draws upon the Existentialist’s emphasis on freedom and the responsibility of creating oneself, a focus on authenticity and the temporality of being, as well as insights into the fragility of freedom and the perils of oppressive systems.

Neo-Absurdist Principles

Intuitive Knowledge

At the heart of Neo-Absurdism lies an acknowledgment of the power of intuitive knowledge. This form of knowledge, rooted in an individual’s inner sense of understanding, transcends the limitations of conscious reasoning or analytical thought. Intuition becomes the foundation upon which the Neo-Absurdist builds their perspective, liberating the individual from the constraints of external validation and scientific dogma. The concept of "Being-in-the-world" aligns with this principle, underscoring the importance of lived and situated experience as the core of personal truth

Mind-Body Duality

Expanding upon the insights of intuitive knowledge, Neo-Absurdism delves into the mind-body duality. While the mind represents the seat of consciousness, thoughts, and beliefs, the body embodies the tangible, chaotic existence in the physical world. Reconciling these two dimensions becomes a central challenge and opportunity for the Neo-Absurdist, embracing the famous "Cogito, ergo sum" while channeling a fundamental understanding of absurdity. The tension between the mind’s longing for unity and the body’s immersion in chaos serves as a creative force that allows for authentic living.

Discardable Identities

With an understanding of the mind and body’s duality, the Neo-Absurdist confronts the fluid nature of identity. Discardable identities highlight the dynamic and evolving self, untethered from imposed labels or societal expectations. Sartre’s assertion that existence precedes essence informs this principle, encouraging individuals to redefine themselves freely and authentically. In doing so, the Neo-Absurdist resists conformity and embraces the liberating potential of identity as a malleable construct.

Innate Tribalism

From identity emerges the concept of innate tribalism—a reflection of humanity’s inherent desire to belong and connect with others. While tribalism has the potential for harm when it fosters exclusion or conformity, the Neo-Absurdist seeks to reclaim the tribe as an internal construct. By forming a "tribe of one," individuals can assert their autonomy while engaging meaningfully with others on their own terms. Critiques of totalitarianism informs this principle, serving as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of blind allegiance and homogenized identity.

Temporal Rejection

Building on the fluidity of identity and the reimagining of tribal belonging, the Neo-Absurdist rejects the notion of linear time. Temporal rejection asserts that existence is not a straightforward progression but rather a cyclical and emergent experience. This principle shapes the Neo-Absurdist’s artistic and philosophical practices, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the present moment rather than striving for ultimate resolution.

Class Struggle

Having embraced the absurdity of time and identity, the Neo-Absurdist turns to the broader social framework of class struggle. Drawing on Marxist thought, this principle critiques the systems of oppression and alienation perpetuated by economic hierarchies. However, the Neo-Absurdist departs from traditional Marxism by acknowledging the inherent absurdity of human existence, resisting rigid ideological frameworks. Instead, creative forms of solidarity and resistance are emphasized, informed by notions of engagement and exploration of power dynamics and manipulation.

Enlightenment

The culmination of Neo-Absurdist principles is the pursuit of enlightenment—a profound understanding that arises not from achieving meaning but from confronting the absurd and persisting in spite of it. Enlightenment is deeply personal, rejecting universal truths in favor of authentic awakening. Revolt serves as a guiding force, alongside the call to "listen to the call of Being" and an insistence on critical thinking and active participation. Through enlightenment, the Neo-Absurdist reclaims freedom, agency, and the ability to create meaning in an indifferent world.

Concluding Thoughts

The Neo-Absurdist manifesto evokes Sisyphus, who finds joy in the struggle. The absurd is not an obstacle, but a companion—a force that pushes the individual to create, to rebel, and to find beauty in the chaos. Like Sisyphus pushing his rock, the Neo-Absurdist recognizes that the journey itself is the meaning, and in that realization, we are free. Simultaneously, it integrates an emphasis on freedom, exploration of authenticity, and warnings against oppressive power structures, inviting individuals to confront their existence and create meaning through deliberate and passionate engagement with life.