Art as commodity

Definition

Art as commodity refers to the idea that artworks are treated and valued like products within the marketplace, where they can be bought, sold, and traded. This concept highlights the shift in perception of art from a purely cultural or spiritual expression to something that can be commercialized, impacting both its creation and appreciation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The commodification of African art has often led to a loss of its original context and meaning as it is produced for a market that values aesthetics over cultural significance.
2. Many artists create works specifically for tourists, altering their traditional practices to appeal to market demands and expectations.
3. The rise of the internet has expanded access to African art, enabling more artists to sell their work globally but also increasing competition in the marketplace.
4. Commodified art can lead to economic opportunities for artists, but it can also result in exploitation, as many creators do not receive fair compensation for their work.
5. Tourist markets often prioritize mass-produced items over unique works, causing a decline in traditional craft practices as artisans shift towards production methods that maximize profit.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of art as commodity affect traditional artistic practices among African artists?
  • The concept of art as commodity significantly impacts traditional artistic practices by pushing artists to adapt their work to meet market demands. Many artists create pieces specifically aimed at tourists or collectors who may not understand the cultural significance behind them. This shift often leads to a dilution of authentic practices, as artists prioritize saleability over tradition in order to survive financially.
• Evaluate the relationship between tourism and the commodification of African art in contemporary society.
  • Tourism plays a crucial role in the commodification of African art by creating a demand for artworks that appeal to non-local consumers. As tourists seek authentic experiences, they often purchase art as souvenirs, which encourages artists to produce work tailored to these expectations rather than traditional forms. This dynamic can benefit local economies but risks homogenizing diverse artistic expressions and erasing their original meanings.
• Discuss the implications of viewing African art primarily as a commodity for both artists and consumers within a globalized market.
  • Viewing African art primarily as a commodity has significant implications for both artists and consumers. For artists, it can create financial opportunities but often at the expense of cultural integrity and personal expression. Consumers, on the other hand, may find themselves purchasing items that lack authenticity or understanding of their cultural significance. This transactional view shifts the relationship between art and its audience from one rooted in cultural appreciation to one focused on consumerism, altering how African art is perceived and valued globally.

Related terms

Cultural Appropriation:

The adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without understanding or respecting the significance behind those elements.

Tourism Economy: An economic system primarily based on attracting visitors who spend money on local goods, services, and experiences, which can significantly influence local cultures and industries.

Authenticity:

The quality of being genuine or original, which is often questioned in the context of commodified art where reproductions may overshadow traditional forms.