The argument over how “art” should be defined is a discourse that has transcended time. Although the definition of “art” is easily found in Webster’s dictionary, there has been a lot of disapproval. Some even question if the simple word can be defined.
One of our talented senior Lobo artists, Sophia Song, shares what her idea of art is, “I think it’s just beauty in general, that’s it.” With the differing definitions, it’s hard to know what qualifies as art. For people who see beauty as art, anything that can be seen with beauty can be considered art. But art is not always “pretty” or “beautiful.”
Artists like Marina Abramovic, a performance artist, is famous for her provocative art. Her art has sometimes taken a violent turn and has allowed many opportunities for offense to herself and to those watching. She gives a new meaning to “doing it for the art,” but some would even say she’s too extreme and that there should be limits to what is permitted.
Our senior artists, Sophia, believes that art should have no limitations but another Lobo would disagree. Alondra Hernandez, a junior, believes that “it is a bit too much. I don’t think her hurting herself is art, but maybe if I understood it more, it’d be different.”
All of the best artists from any era pushed the limits and taken risks. But is there a point when it becomes too much? Art is known to be provocative at time and to ignite strong emotions, but is there a point when it goes too far?
