Instrumental value

Definition

Instrumental value refers to the usefulness or practicality of something, especially in terms of its ability to serve as a means to achieve an end. In the context of the art market and commodification of art, instrumental value emphasizes how art can be valued for its economic potential, often overshadowing its intrinsic aesthetic or cultural significance. This perspective can impact how artists create their work and how collectors perceive art, leading to a focus on marketability and profit rather than artistic expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instrumental value highlights how art can be viewed primarily as a financial asset rather than a cultural artifact.
2. The rise of the art market has led to increased commodification, where artworks are treated like products that can be appraised and sold for profit.
3. Artists may feel pressured to create works with high instrumental value to appeal to collectors and investors rather than focusing on personal expression.
4. The perception of art's instrumental value can shift based on market trends, influencing what kinds of artwork are produced and celebrated.
5. This focus on instrumental value can lead to a decline in support for public art initiatives that emphasize community engagement over profit.

Review Questions

• How does instrumental value impact artists' creative processes and decisions in the context of the art market?
  • Instrumental value affects artists by encouraging them to prioritize commercial appeal and profitability over their personal artistic vision. As the art market increasingly values artworks for their potential financial return, artists may feel compelled to create pieces that align with market trends. This pressure can stifle creativity, as artists might conform to popular styles or themes that are likely to attract buyers instead of exploring innovative or experimental ideas.
• Discuss the relationship between commodification and instrumental value within the art market and its implications for the appreciation of art.
  • Commodification transforms art into a product that is valued primarily for its monetary worth, reinforcing the notion of instrumental value. As artworks become commodities, their appreciation often shifts from intrinsic qualities—like emotional depth or cultural significance—to their investment potential. This shift can undermine the authentic appreciation of art as a form of expression, leading audiences to focus more on resale value rather than the meanings or messages conveyed through artistic work.
• Evaluate how the focus on instrumental value could reshape future trends in the art world and influence societal perceptions of creativity.
  • A growing emphasis on instrumental value may lead to a future where artworks are predominantly created for economic gain rather than genuine expression. As more artists cater to market demands, society may increasingly view creativity through a commercial lens, diminishing the appreciation for art as a vital cultural practice. This trend could foster a homogenized art landscape focused on profitability, potentially sidelining diverse voices and innovative practices that challenge conventional norms within the artistic community.

Related terms

intrinsic value: Intrinsic value refers to the inherent worth of an object or idea, based on its own qualities, rather than its utility or economic benefits.

commodification: Commodification is the process of transforming goods, services, or even ideas into commodities that can be bought and sold in the market.

art market: The art market encompasses the buying and selling of art, influenced by factors such as demand, trends, and the financialization of art as an investment.