Can you separate the art from the artist?

 

When an artist, celebrated for their creative brilliance, is revealed to have committed acts that are morally or legally wrong, where does that leave their art? 

Can an awesome artwork, a captivating film or an incredible song still be appreciated, untainted by the faults of its creator?

This isn’t a simple question and, in the context of contemporary culture, the world seems to change it’s mind quite a bit.

On one side of the debate stands the argument for the art. 

This view asserts that a work of art has an intrinsic value, separate and distinct from the personal character or actions of the individual who brought it into being. 

The beauty of a painting, the empathetic power of a film or the emotive pull of a piece of music – in many ways, the meaning and impact sits within the canvas of its construct.

To deny the experience of some of the most life-affirming art because the crackpot who created it has committed a crime feels like a greater loss for the audience than the author. 

‍

Pablo Picasso.

A titan of twentieth-century art.

His name alone is used to reference creative genius in conversation and culture.

Picasso’s impact on modern art is undeniable. Yet, the tales told of Picasso and his treatment of women would be inexcusable in any modern context. 

Hannah Gadsby, in her 2018 comedic odyssey Nanette, gives a lengthy bit about the bad behaviour of the 20th century’s most revered artist. And, from many other accounts, it can’t be denied that Pablo was an asshole.

Yet, have you stood in front of Guernica? 

Does his bad (bordering criminal) behaviour negate the artistic merit of one of history’s most powerful anti-war masterpieces? 

The painting's visceral depiction of suffering, potent political message, artistic impact – surely these stand alone, irrespective of Picasso's personal failings?

It’s tempting to draw a line between Picasso and his incredibly prolific back catalogue - and perhaps the world has? 

https://www.beansmarketing.com.au/post/can-you-separate-the-art-from-the-artist

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