Sunday, April 11, 2010

Response to Andrew Roiter: Ethical Dilemmas Degrading Art

Andrew asked, Is it morally right to separate an artist from his work if we find the artist's own morals questionable?

I would say that an artists' morals should not affect how we view their art. If one sees a painting and is filled with awe at its beauty, why would it become less beautiful if just because you found out something undesirable about the person who created it? For instance, The Beatles--one of the most popular bands of all time, if not the most popular--were under the influence of drugs while writing many of their songs. Despite that, many people who are anti-drug listen to their music because the message and and talent within the songs is so awesome that it doesn't matter to them what habits the artists had. Van Gogh was literally insane and cut off his ear, but he is also regarded as an influential and talented painter.

I will say as well, though, that it is possible for information about the artist to can cause a change in one's interpretation of the artwork, which can change one's opinion about it. I know that sounds a little convoluted, but don't worry--I will explain. Say, for instance, you saw and ancient Egyptian wall painting of a man holding a baby. You might look at it and think, "Wow, that's really cool." Then you find out that the painting was done by a man in support of killing Jewish infants by throwing them to crocodiles. Suddenly the you see the painting in a new light, and do not think it is as cool anymore.

My question in response is this: Why do you think people have so much trouble setting aside their morals so they can appreciate art? This seems to be a problem that has been present for centuries.

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