What Is Not Considered Art in the Contemporary World

The definition of art can vary widely depending on cultural, social, and personal perspectives. However, certain categories of objects, activities, and creations are generally not recognized as art. This article explores why certain items and experiences fall outside the realm of art and what distinguishes them from more traditionally accepted forms of artistic expression.

The Aesthetic Experience and Art

Art is fundamentally a combination of creativity, intention, and interpretation aimed at evoking an emotional, intellectual, or aesthetic response in the viewer. It spans traditional mediums like painting and sculpture, as well as contemporary forms that experiment with diverse media and concepts. The core of an artistic experience is the interaction between the creator’s intent and the audience's perception.

Personal Experiences and Articulation

Each individual’s experience of art can be subjective. An artist, a gallery owner, or a collector might experience and define art differently. For example, an artist might focus on their intent, whereas a dealer might consider market value. However, the defining feature is that the experience must be aesthetic, engaging the senses in some profound and unique way.

Distinguishing Art from Non-Art

Art can be distinguished from non-art by its capacity to offer an extraordinary aesthetic experience, which is not ordinary. Non-ordinary aesthetic experiences cannot be equated to works that lack intention behind their creation. To differentiate between art and non-art requires additional qualifications related to the intentionality that lies behind the creation of the work.

The Nature of Aesthetic Experience

Aesthetic experience is the awareness of the presence of beauty or the perception of artistic quality. It arises from the action of mind and not mind. Aesthetic experiences can be intentional or unintentional, and can be influenced by both human-made and natural elements. The boundary between these two realms can sometimes be blurred, but the essence of art lies in the intentional creation of beauty or meaning.

General Categories Not Considered Art

There are several general categories commonly recognized as not being art:

Functional Objects

Items created primarily for utility, such as tools or household items, are generally not classified as art. While these objects can be aesthetically pleasing, their primary purpose is practical rather than expressive.

Commercial Products

Mass-produced goods like consumer electronics or fast fashion items are not considered art if they do not include creative intent. Their primary purpose is commercial, focusing on profit rather than artistic value.

Non-Aesthetic Activities

Routine chores or administrative tasks, regardless of their intrinsic beauty, are not considered art. These activities do not aim to provoke thought or convey beauty.

Works Lacking Intent

Artistic works are often defined by their intentionality. If something is created without any artistic intent, it may not qualify as art. This includes many commercial products and functional objects without design considerations.

Certain Types of Entertainment

While performance art and live pieces can be considered art, other forms of entertainment like reality TV shows or product advertisements are often not seen as art. Their primary focus is on entertainment or profit rather than artistic expression.

Conclusion

The boundaries of what is considered art are not fixed and can vary greatly across different cultures and contexts. What is deemed art today might not be considered as such in the future, and vice versa. The key to understanding what is not art lies in recognizing the intentional and aesthetic qualities of the work in question. Moving forward, continued exploration of artistic boundaries will undoubtedly expand our understanding of art in the modern world.