What is Art?

What is art? Art can’t exactly be described because art is completely subjective and personal, a piece of art that someone might believe is beautiful another may find hideous. Art is personal, and based what you personally find creative or artistic or fascinating.

How do we know it is art? If someone decides and says that something is art then most likely people will agree with them because that is simply the way our society is structured “follow the crowd.” Personally I believe that you can call anything an art form if you find something fascinating or impressive, even though others may think it is nothing.

Who decides what is art? You are your own personal decider, no one can specifically choose what is art and what isn’t, it is what you think of it that matters.

Is it enough to just display a found object and say ‘this is art’ because it’s in an art gallery? To an extend yes it would be enough because as previously stated because of the way our society is built most people would just accept that and agree with that statement, as well as the fact that because it is a piece in art gallery it clearly has some level of artistic importance usually.

“To put art back into the service of the mind” What does this mean? What I think it means is that Duchamp wants to create art that makes you think, and requires you to use your mind and question it and its importance in society. I believe that Duchamp wanted to start creating pieces that made the viewer want to know more and want to ask questions.

Is technical skill important? No I do not believe technical skill is important in all artwork, for some pieces yes it would help to have some technical skill, however any one who can pick up a piece of material and place it on a canvas or paper can create impressive art nonetheless.

Does art need to move you emotionally? No art definitely does not need to move you emotionally, personally I find it more interesting when a piece has a deep emotional connection to me, but at the same time there are thousands of pieces of art that I simply enjoy because I think they are beautiful.

Does art have to be unique? No art does not have to be unique, however if you want to make a statement or stand out from other artists then yes it would have to be unique.