Elitism in art

Definition

Elitism in art refers to the belief or practice that certain artistic works or movements are of higher value, importance, or quality than others, often promoting the idea that only a select group of individuals can truly appreciate or create 'great' art. This notion can create barriers to access, leading to a divide between the 'elite' in the art world and the general public, influencing how art is perceived and who is included in the conversation around it.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elitism can manifest in various forms, including exclusive exhibitions, high prices for artworks, and limited access to art education, which can alienate potential audiences.
2. Many contemporary artists actively reject elitist notions by creating work that engages with everyday life and invites participation from a wider audience.
3. Art institutions often grapple with balancing the preservation of high culture while making efforts to be more inclusive and accessible to diverse populations.
4. Critics of elitism argue that it perpetuates cultural hierarchies, marginalizing voices and perspectives that don't conform to traditional definitions of high art.
5. The rise of social media and digital platforms has challenged traditional elitism by allowing a broader range of artists and audiences to share their work and perspectives.

Review Questions

• How does elitism in art affect the way different audiences engage with artistic works?
  • Elitism in art creates barriers that can discourage broader audiences from engaging with certain artworks or movements. When art is presented as something only a select few can appreciate or understand, it often leads to feelings of exclusion among those who do not identify with the elite group. This divide can diminish public interest in the arts and reduce opportunities for diverse voices to be heard within the artistic community.
• Discuss how institutional critique has emerged as a response to elitism in art.
  • Institutional critique has developed as an important movement within contemporary art that directly addresses and challenges the structures that perpetuate elitism. By questioning the practices and values upheld by galleries, museums, and other art institutions, this form of critique seeks to expose inequalities and advocate for inclusivity. Artists involved in institutional critique aim to redefine what constitutes valuable art, urging institutions to broaden their definitions and open their doors to a wider array of artistic expressions.
• Evaluate the impact of digital platforms on the perception of elitism in the art world.
  • Digital platforms have significantly altered perceptions of elitism in the art world by democratizing access to both creation and consumption of art. Artists who may have previously been marginalized now have opportunities to share their work with global audiences through social media and online galleries. This shift challenges traditional hierarchies by allowing diverse voices to gain recognition outside established institutions, leading to a re-evaluation of what constitutes valuable artistic expression. As a result, the definition of 'great' art continues to evolve in a more inclusive direction.

Related terms

Accessibility: The degree to which art is available and approachable for a broader audience, often focusing on overcoming barriers that prevent engagement with artistic practices and institutions.

Institutional Critique: A form of art that challenges and questions the structures, values, and practices of art institutions, often highlighting issues of power dynamics and elitism.

Cultural Capital: The non-financial social assets, such as education and knowledge, that promote social mobility in a stratified society, influencing who participates in and appreciates art.