Artistry and Commerce: Defining the Boundaries of Art
Artistry and Commerce: Defining the Boundaries of Art
In the realm of creativity, the line between an artist and a craftsman is often blurred, especially in the age of commercial art. With the advent of digital tools and mass production, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes art and who can rightfully claim to be an artist. This article explores the nuances of artistry versus commerce and the challenges one faces when trying to define who is truly an artist. We will also delve into the specific issue of Zentangle and its place in the art world, as well as the broader implications for those who make their living through crafts and commercial design.What Qualifies as Art?
The root of the controversy often lies in the definition of art itself. Many argue that if someone is making a living from their creations, they are an artist. However, when we delve deeper into this idea, the complexity becomes apparent. Art is subjective; what one person considers art may not be seen that way by another. This subjectivity is part of what makes art so fascinating and diverse, but it also poses challenges in defining who is an artist.Artists vs. Craftsmen: A Matter of Intention
When making a living is the primary criterion for being an artist, we run the risk of over-simplifying the concept. For instance, craftsmen who cast, print, or create art using other forms often require artistic skills, but their primary focus may be on functionality and commercial viability rather than sheer artistry. They may have artistic hands, but their work is more aligned with the commercial realm than the artistic one.Therefore, it is more accurate to say that craftspeople create art, but not everyone who creates art is an artist. An artist is someone who creates art with the intention to express themselves, convey emotions, or provoke thought.
Example: Consider the case of Zentangle. Originally, this design method involved creating intricate patterns using simple tools, often for therapeutic and artistic purposes. However, if Zentangle has been commercialized to such an extent that it now involves branded golf pencils, drink coasters, and other trinkets, then the focus shifts from art to commerce. The intention and the end product become crucial determinants in defining the nature of the work.
The Case of Zentangle
Zentangle is a design method that has gained significant popularity, but it has also drawn criticism for being commodified. The founders took Dover copyright-free designs, branded them as Zentangle, and charged thousands of dollars for classes and supplies. This raises questions about authenticity and the true nature of art in the commercial realm.While many people find joy and fulfillment in practicing Zentangle, the commercialization of the method has led to some skepticism. Is Zentangle truly an art form, or has it been co-opted by a business model? This debate highlights the tension between art and commerce.
Skill vs. Schlock: Navigating the Art World
Ultimately, the art world is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of skills and intentions. Some craftspeople make exceptional, high-quality works that qualify as art, while others produce pieces that are more aligned with commercial design and mass production. The line between skill and incompetence is increasingly blurred, and this creates challenges in distinguishing between what is art and what is mere schlock.Example: A skilled painter who creates beautiful, evocative works of art can be considered an artist, regardless of their financial success. On the other hand, a craftsman who produces mass-produced trinkets might be seen as a skilled craftsman but not necessarily an artist, unless their work also conveys a deeper artistic intention.
The art world needs to embrace its inherent complexity. While some forms of art may not align with traditional notions of art, their value and merit should not be discounted solely based on the commercial aspect of their production. Art is not a fixed entity but a dynamic field that evolves with each new creation and interpretation.