What is campy?

Sure, "campy" is a term often used to describe art, entertainment, or behavior that is exaggerated, theatrical, or intentionally tacky. The concept of camp embraces a kind of self-aware bad taste or irony, often celebrating that which is considered over-the-top or out of the ordinary.

Here are a few key points about campy style:

1. Aesthetics: Campy art or performances are characterized by their love of exaggeration, parody, and kitsch. These elements often play with cultural norms and expectations in a humorous or satirical way.

2. Influence: Camp has been a significant influence in various art forms, including fashion, film, and theater. It is well-known in genres like melodrama, musical theater, and drag performances.

3. Famous Examples: Some well-known examples of campy works include the films of John Waters, classic TV shows like "Batman" from the 1960s, and musical acts like The B-52's. These works often embrace a style that is knowingly artificial or absurd.

4. Cultural Significance: The concept of camp has been important in LGBTQ+ culture, often serving as a way to subvert mainstream norms with humor and creativity. It allows for a playful exploration of identity and society.

5. Susan Sontag's "Notes on 'Camp'": In 1964, Susan Sontag published an influential essay titled "Notes on 'Camp'", which helped define camp as a sensibility. She described it as a style that appreciates "the unnatural: of artifice and exaggeration."

6. Modern Usage: Today, camp remains relevant, with many contemporary artists, fashion designers, and performers drawing inspiration from its themes.

The appreciation of camp involves understanding that what might appear as "bad taste" is often a deliberate artistic choice meant to challenge conventional ideas and entertain through excess and irony.