What Cannot Be Classified as ‘Art’?

Art is a broad and ever-evolving concept that spans across various mediums and forms. From visual paintings to auditory compositions and beyond, anything created by humans can potentially be considered art. However, there are certain aspects and situations where the classification of something as art becomes more ambiguous. This article delves into the complexities of defining 'not art' and explores the blurred lines between functionality and artistic expression.

Originality and Copyright

Theoretically, anything that is originally created by humans can be considered art, and it is possible to obtain a copyright on such creations. Conversely, something that is not originally created and cannot be copyrighted does not fit the definition of art. For instance, a chair, couch, or bed, despite requiring design and creative thought, may lack the intent to express a specific idea, belief, or emotion, rendering it not as a piece of art.

Beyond Strict Definitions

Art is not confined to traditional mediums or forms. We must step away from rigid definitions and embrace a more flexible approach to understanding art. In our pursuit of artistic expression, we often focus on the skill, effort, and intention behind the creation. An artist may create a visually unimpressive piece with great meaning, or even something unintentionally, yet imbued with profound significance. This flexibility in definition challenges us to consider a broader range of possibilities within the realm of art.

Theoretical and Practical Applications

It is challenging to definitively categorize an object or creation as 'not art.' Concepts such as a painting on a canvas or a design for a chair, couch, or bed, blur the lines between functionality and artistic expression. While a painting on a canvas may be universally recognized as art, the chair may serve its functional purpose without necessarily conveying a specific idea, belief, or emotion.

The intention behind a work is a crucial factor in its classification as art. If an object or creation does not aim to express a specific idea, belief, emotion, or piece of abstract thought, it is not considered art. Nevertheless, the line between functionality and artistic expression can be significantly blurred, making it difficult to draw a clear distinction. Factors such as the use of design, creativity, and the degree to which the piece evokes a certain emotion or thought can influence the perception of its artistic value.

Conclusion

Art remains a fluid and multifaceted concept, with no strict boundary dividing what is and what is not art. While theoretically, anything created by humans can be art, practical and theoretical contexts can complicate this classification. The pursuit of art involves not only showcasing creativity but also recognizing the nuanced nature of its definition. By embracing flexibility and understanding the intentions and meanings behind various creations, we can expand our understanding of art and appreciate its diverse expressions.