I’ve been thinking a lot about the purpose of art lately, and I’m starting to feel like there’s too much emphasis on pure aesthetics and not enough on using art as a platform for social commentary. Obviously, appreciating beauty is vital, and technical skill should be valued. But wouldn’t it be more impactful if more artists consciously used their platform to address societal issues, challenge norms, or spark important conversations?
Think about a beautifully painted landscape versus a street art mural addressing homelessness. Both can be considered art, but one feels passively enjoyable while the other actively engages with the world. Maybe it’s unfair to expect every artist to be a social activist, but I wonder if we, as a society, should be prioritizing and celebrating art that pushes boundaries and makes us think, rather than just art that’s pleasing to the eye.
This isn’t to say aesthetically stunning art *can’t* also carry a message, but I’m talking more about the general trend. Are we too focused on form over function when it comes to art, and are we missing opportunities to use creative expression for positive social change? What are your thoughts?