Theory of Art - part one

Man is the only creature which deals in Art, though Art is very hard to define – yes, it includes painting, music, dance, literature, and poetry, but a precise definition is hard to come by.  Aesthetics it deals with.  Man concerns himself with the appearance of his surroundings – his home (inside and out), his autos, his clothing, and his body.  He cares about architecture, city planning, fashion, cosmetics, landscaping, interior decorating, jewelry, and even the way his food appears on his plate.  All of those concerns are related to Art.  He creates constantly – the only creature with the ability to do so.  Perhaps Art is an expression which touches and appeals to those sensibilities which lie beyond our intellectual curiosity - a language apart from written and spoken language.  It is not concerned with the alphabet.  We cannot describe any work of music with words.  That is impossible.  We must hear it.  What about a painting?  A painting can be described with words, even if it takes many, many words - it can be done.  Technically, it would be like describing a set of blueprints.  Nevertheless, words cannot take the place of a painting.  One must see it.  A description of a piece of literature can also likewise not take the place of the literature itself.  One must read it.  One must experience the play in the theatre.  So, then, even if we do not know precisely what Art is, how do we determine what is mediocre, good, or great Art?  As with Music, the audience is the final arbiter.  I know when I like something if I want to return to it over and over again.  I am certainly smart enough to know what I like.  What is that question on everyone’s mind?  What about Lady Gaga?  If she is so popular and the audience is really the final arbiter, does that make her a great artist?   No.  Why not?  Because her art is transitory – it will not last.  Great art is here to stay.  Bach’s music is almost 300 years old and it is still being played.  Lady Gaga may last ten or twenty years but certainly not beyond that.  A good entertainer she is and an artist, of course, a cheesy one, but not a great artist.  And people like trailblazers too – they love daring, original, courageous, intrepid, scandalous leaders.  That’s how we explain a phenomenon like Andy Warhol.  Is he here to stay?  Yes, I’m afraid so.  He was a trailblazer.  Not a great artist but a trailblazer.  Finally, what about value - who decides value?  To be continued . . . . This painting is Doorway - number 322 - 2008