"A New Way of Seeing" is overrated.

I keep hearing that it is very important to demonstrate a “New Way of Seeing” in one’s art to be relevant. I would take that issue to task. That is simply NOT how historically movements in art have been written. Yes, somebody does create an important break from the status quo, but then, other artists must recognize that value and subscribe to that vision, and create the “movement.” For example, Cezanne was considered the “Father of Modern Art” (and a few other things) so that means that HE was the one credited with breaking away from the status quo, and everyone else (his cronies) went along with the idea. THEY did not create the new way of seeing....only HE did. And they followed in tow. I think, for the bulk of us artists, if we attach ourselves to a contemporary movement - that would be sufficient. And if you do something entirely renegade? Chances are you will be considered just that - renegade - and lost in time.