Appropriation

I think that appropriation is not something that is actively attempted. In order to create a cohesive series of work, the artist(s)' work must be informed of past works in order to make any sort of statement. Being aware of art history is a must for any artist, and references to influential pieces pack heavy punches in the message of the current piece. Also, it is very nearly impossible to create a truly original piece, free of any sort of influence or cues from other works. I would be quite surprised and more than a little skeptical. It is important and also extremely useful to bring a number of different influences from many different mediums and eras of art.