What is Art?
Art is the conscious creation of something beautiful or meaningful using skill and imagination. It encompasses a wide range of human activities, including painting, drawing, graphics, sculpture, modern media art, theatre, dance, music, song, photography, film, architecture, literature and poetry.
In Western aesthetics, the work of art resulting from the conscious use of skill and creative imagination transcends the mere functional. However, every conception of art is culture-specific and time-bound. Objects from almost every culture are known that distinguish themselves from ‘ordinary’ objects because they are generally attributed a higher aesthetic value. Such objects sometimes have non-aesthetic – ceremonial or religious or propagandistic – functions, and sometimes they do not. Concepts of art can also evolve within the same culture: new genres emerge and other art forms develop, changing the idea of the function and nature of art.
Who determines whether something is art?
Art only exists in the mind of the viewer. The concept, the artist’s idea, is separated from the material and the execution. Since Duchamp, developments in the visual arts have followed each other in rapid succession.
What is the value of art?
Art not only has an artistic self-esteem in itself, but also a social value. A third value that can be added to this is the economic value: the significance of art and culture for the business climate in the region, competitiveness and employment within an area.
The value judgment of the viewer
The way in which the viewer views the work of art and the reaction it elicits from its audience and critics is what we call reception.
An artist sometimes expresses his personal opinion or feelings in his work. Art often speaks its own language, which can be understood by those who view the work of art. Yet it is not necessarily the intention of a work of art that the viewer immediately understands the personal expression the artist put in his work.
Contemporary art can sometimes be difficult for the public to understand at first because an innovative artist expresses something for which there is often no comparison material yet.
What makes art valuable?
The most important thing when valuing art is generating a belief that your art is valuable, says Velthuis. “The value increases when people with respect in the art world, such as art critics, curators and museum directors, are positive about your work.”
Emotional value art
The emotional value is determined by your perception of shapes, colors or the entire scene. Whether it is a realistic portrait or a painting with some abstract elements. Whether the painting appeals to you is independent of its commercial value. Once enchanted, you will bond with the painting.
What does art do to you?
Art attracts your attention, makes you curious, enraptures you and can also offer you comfort. In short, art inspires! Art is also about emotions and they can often be found in a hospital.