Art as commodity

Definition

Art as commodity refers to the idea of art being produced, bought, and sold as a marketable product, much like any other goods in the economy. This concept highlights how art can be viewed not only for its aesthetic value but also for its economic worth, impacting the way artists create and audiences engage with their work. The rise of the middle class and the increasing demand for art during this period transformed art into a valuable asset that could be traded and collected.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The emergence of a wealthy middle class during the Dutch Golden Age created a new market for art, where buying paintings became a status symbol.
2. Artists began producing works specifically tailored to the tastes and preferences of middle-class patrons, which influenced the style and subject matter of their creations.
3. The establishment of auction houses facilitated the buying and selling of artworks, allowing for wider access to art as an investment.
4. This shift towards seeing art as a commodity led to changes in how artists were compensated, with some being able to make a living solely from their art sales.
5. The concept of art as commodity changed the traditional relationship between artists and patrons, moving from a focus on commissioned works to more speculative purchasing.

Review Questions

• How did the rise of the middle class influence the production and sale of art during this period?
  • The rise of the middle class created a demand for art that catered to their tastes and social aspirations. Artists began producing works specifically aimed at this audience, leading to new styles and subjects that appealed to middle-class values. As these individuals sought to display their wealth and sophistication, they invested in artworks, transforming the nature of art production from purely commissioned works to pieces intended for market sale.
• What were some key changes in the structure of the art market that emerged as a result of viewing art as a commodity?
  • As art became viewed as a commodity, several key changes occurred within the art market. The establishment of auction houses allowed for greater accessibility to artworks and introduced competitive bidding among collectors. Additionally, galleries emerged as important intermediaries between artists and buyers, promoting artworks and fostering relationships with potential patrons. This shift also meant that artists began adapting their work to align with market trends rather than solely focusing on personal expression.
• Evaluate the impact of commodification on artists' creative processes and their relationship with patrons.
  • The commodification of art had profound implications for artists' creative processes, often shifting their focus towards commercial viability instead of purely artistic expression. Artists began to consider market demands when creating their works, leading to a blend of personal style with commercially appealing themes. This change also altered relationships with patrons; rather than simply providing commissions based on specific requests, patrons started purchasing works based on trends or investment potential. Consequently, this evolving dynamic shaped both the artist's identity and the broader art community.

Related terms

Art Market: The system through which artworks are bought and sold, encompassing galleries, auction houses, and private sales.

Patronage:

The support, often financial, provided by individuals or institutions to artists to produce works of art.

Collecting: The act of acquiring and owning works of art, often motivated by personal enjoyment or investment potential.