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Capitalism and Representation: The Oxford History of Art

Everett Bell

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Published in Modern Art 1851 1929: Capitalism And Representation (Oxford History Of Art)

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Art has long been a reflection of the society in which it is created. The works of art that we see today can tell us a great deal about the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the people who created them. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the relationship between capitalism and art. This article will explore the ways in which capitalism has influenced the production, distribution, and consumption of art.

The Rise of Capitalism

The rise of capitalism in the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance led to a number of changes in the way that art was produced and consumed. Prior to this time, art was primarily commissioned by the Church and the aristocracy. However, as the middle class grew in wealth and power, they began to demand a greater share of the art market. This led to the development of new genres of art, such as portraiture and landscape painting, that appealed to the tastes of the middle class.

Modern Art 1851-1929: Capitalism and Representation (Oxford History of Art)

by Richard R. Brettell

4.2 out of 5

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At the same time, the rise of capitalism also led to the development of new technologies that made it possible to produce art more efficiently and cheaply. The invention of the printing press, for example, made it possible to mass-produce prints and other works of art. This led to a decline in the price of art and made it more accessible to the general public.

The Commodification of Art

One of the most significant impacts of capitalism on art has been the commodification of art. In a capitalist society, art is treated as a commodity that can be bought and sold for profit. This has led to a number of changes in the way that art is produced and consumed.

First, the commodification of art has led to the development of a market for art. This market is driven by the demand for art from collectors, investors, and other buyers. In order to meet this demand, artists must produce art that is appealing to the tastes of the market. This can lead to a narrowing of the range of artistic expression and a focus on producing art that is safe and predictable.

Second, the commodification of art has led to a separation between the artist and the audience. In the past, artists were often closely connected to their communities and their work reflected the values and beliefs of those communities. However, in a capitalist society, artists are often isolated from their audiences and their work is more likely to reflect the values of the market than the values of the people who create it.

The Critique of Capitalism

The commodification of art has been a major source of criticism from both artists and critics. Many artists argue that the market for art has corrupted the creative process and led to a decline in the quality of art. Critics also argue that the commodification of art has made art less accessible to the general public and that it has contributed to the growing inequality in our society.

In recent years, there have been a number of movements that have sought to challenge the commodification of art. These movements include the Dada movement, the Surrealist movement, and the Pop Art movement. These movements have all sought to break down the barriers between art and life and to create art that is accessible to everyone.

The Future of Art in a Capitalist Society

The future of art in a capitalist society is uncertain. The commodification of art has had a significant impact on the way that art is produced and consumed, and it is likely that this impact will continue to be felt in the years to come. However, there is also a growing movement of artists and critics who are challenging the commodification of art and who are seeking to create a more just and equitable future for art.

Capitalism has had a profound impact on the production, distribution, and consumption of art. The rise of capitalism led to the development of new genres of art, new technologies for producing art, and a new market for art. However, the commodification of art has also led to a number of problems, including a narrowing of the range of artistic expression, a separation between the artist and the audience, and a growing inequality in the distribution of art. The future of art in a capitalist society is uncertain, but there is a growing movement of artists and critics who are challenging the commodification of art and who are seeking to create a more just and equitable future for art.

Modern Art 1851-1929: Capitalism and Representation (Oxford History of Art)

by Richard R. Brettell

4.2 out of 5