What is Art? (And Related Questions)
Because the arts are so subjective and speak to us in so many different—and sometimes challenging—
ways, there are no easy answers to the hard questions they pose. Different people will have different answers,
and each of us may change our mind about our own answers. But because the arts express our humanity, it is
important to consider the questions and to think about our answers.
In this context, assume that the term “Art” refers to any of the major types of artistic expression,
particularly the visual, performing, and literary forms: painting, sculpture, music, dance, theater, film, drama,
fiction, poetry, etc. Consider the answers for “Art” (meaning all these areas), but also think about whether
there are differences for different fields. For example, your answer for music might be different from your
answer for the visual arts.
What are the requirements for something to be “Art”? What is the purpose of Art—or does it have a purpose?
What qualities should all art forms have, and which ones are specific to particular fields? Make lists of criteria.
(In doing this, it might be helpful to also discuss the things you think are NOT necessary for something to be
considered “art.”)
Who should decide if something is Art and, therefore, worthy of being taken seriously and admired? The artists
themselves? The critics? The general public? The government? Is the answer the same for all fields? Explain
and support your answer.
Should Art be censored? If so, what kind of thing should be censored? If so, who should decide what should be
censored? Should there be censorship in some fields but not in others? Who should enforce censorship?
Should there be government funding for the arts? Why or why not? If so, should the government have the right
to censor or even dictate either content or form?