Art Historical Canons

Definition

Art historical canons refer to the established standards and criteria that dictate which artworks are considered significant, valuable, or worthy of study within the field of art history. These canons often reflect cultural, political, and social values, and they shape our understanding of art by highlighting certain artists and movements while marginalizing others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Art historical canons have traditionally favored Western artists and movements, leading to a lack of representation for non-Western art forms in mainstream narratives.
2. The criteria for inclusion in art historical canons are often influenced by prevailing cultural values, which can change over time as societies evolve.
3. Contemporary art practices challenge traditional canons by emphasizing diversity, inclusivity, and the importance of marginalized voices in shaping art history.
4. Revisiting and redefining these canons can foster a more comprehensive understanding of global art practices and histories.
5. Institutions such as museums and galleries play a crucial role in perpetuating or challenging these canons through their exhibitions and collections.

Review Questions

• How do art historical canons influence the recognition of artists and movements in the study of art?
  • Art historical canons play a significant role in determining which artists and movements receive recognition within academia and public discourse. By establishing specific criteria for what is considered 'important' art, these canons often elevate certain figures while sidelining others, particularly those from non-Western backgrounds. This creates a skewed understanding of art history that can overlook valuable contributions from diverse cultures.
• What are some ways that contemporary artists challenge traditional art historical canons?
  • Contemporary artists challenge traditional art historical canons by promoting inclusivity, showcasing diverse narratives, and questioning established norms. Many artists today intentionally highlight marginalized voices and use their platforms to address issues related to identity, culture, and social justice. By doing so, they push against the limitations imposed by previous canons and advocate for a broader understanding of what constitutes significant art.
• Evaluate the implications of redefining art historical canons on our understanding of global art histories.
  • Redefining art historical canons has profound implications for our understanding of global art histories. By incorporating diverse perspectives and recognizing the contributions of non-Western artists, we begin to build a more equitable narrative that reflects the complexity of human creativity across cultures. This re-evaluation not only enriches the study of art but also challenges Eurocentric viewpoints, allowing for a more holistic appreciation of artistic expression worldwide.

Related terms

Eurocentrism: A worldview that centers European culture and history as the primary reference point for understanding global developments, often leading to the neglect of non-Western perspectives in art.

Cultural Appropriation: The adoption of elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without permission and usually in a context that can lead to the exploitation or misrepresentation of the original culture.

Postcolonialism: An academic approach that examines the cultural, political, and economic impacts of colonialism and seeks to reframe narratives by incorporating voices and perspectives from formerly colonized societies.