Reflections on Thurs. lecture
Our professor, John, asked this question of our class last Thursday: "Do we have artists [here in class] who did the [art] work and never showed it to anyone?" There were plenty of hands that went up, since it is realistic to presume that many artists in the world choose to keep their art out of the public eye. Is it right and moral though, to bring an artist's "private" collection out into the spotlight after their passing? It is hard to know where to stand on this issue. If Van Gogh had requested that his widely acclaimed painting "Starry Night" stay hidden, would his request be honored? It is no doubt that his painting serves as an inspiration for all, and most importantly, documents the talent of this great artist. Without its presence, there would most definitely be a void in the art sphere. After pondering this question, I then thought, why WOULD an artist want to keep their work hidden? The first reason that comes to mind is that an artist may not perceive their work to be worthy of showing the public. They may believe that this "lower quality" work may decrease the value of past pieces on display. Furthermore, the content of the piece may have been intended to only be viewed and understood by the artist himself. Are we doing the artist an injustice when we choose to ransack their art studio and publicize their work after their death? Or is it worth it, because, in the opinion of one, or perhaps a few people, a quality piece of art does not deserve to be packed away in a dusty box?
1 comment:
You commented on the intention of the artist and the desired interpretation of a work of art.
Even if the artist keeps a work of art private because s/he believed the work is meant only for their eyes, or that the meaning is only truely known to them alone, this is only one person's opinion. It is true that the context in which anyone else views the work is different than the context that the artist views it. However, this does not make the interpretation of anyone else less valid.
I think sharing the work after the artist's death should be allowed if that is what is desired by the artwork's new owner. I don't believe the artist can maintain complete authorship and control over a work of art once it is produced. Once it leaves the artist's possession, it is the property of the new owner, and that person can do what they want with it.
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