From guest writer Blanca Lucia Bergman
I’ve thought about the enduring question, “What is art?” for a long time. Here’s my conclusion and the working definition that guides my art viewing, curation, and even my mental health advocacy:
Art is anything designated as such.
Meaning, beauty, reflecting the times, purpose, narrative, technical skill… none of these are required, only designation by a creator or viewer.
For me, broadening the definition of art offers insight into the creator's or viewer's perception (which is a privilege) and expanded collective mental health by creating moments of joy, excitement, and connection that may not otherwise exist. It also creates access for people who cannot afford supplies, training, or transportation, or who live with limited mobility.
Broadening the definition of art does not make masterful artwork, as judged by experts, any less masterful.
If an AI piece, for example, were to induce positive change, introspection, joy, or inspiration, why would I negate that?
My life isn’t perfect, and this year has served as a loud reminder, but my broad definition of art has enriched my life and made painful moments transcendable.
Blanca Lucia Bergman, MBA
Art is anything designated as such.
Meaning, beauty, reflecting the times, purpose, narrative, technical skill… none of these are required, only designation by a creator or viewer.
For me, broadening the definition of art offers insight into the creator's or viewer's perception (which is a privilege) and expanded collective mental health by creating moments of joy, excitement, and connection that may not otherwise exist. It also creates access for people who cannot afford supplies, training, or transportation, or who live with limited mobility.
Broadening the definition of art does not make masterful artwork, as judged by experts, any less masterful.
If an AI piece, for example, were to induce positive change, introspection, joy, or inspiration, why would I negate that?
My life isn’t perfect, and this year has served as a loud reminder, but my broad definition of art has enriched my life and made painful moments transcendable.
Blanca Lucia Bergman, MBA
Founder, Blanca Bergman Consulting, Mental Wellness for Artists, Cycad Gallery