While I am certainly in accordance with the argument that a universal truth cannot transpire off an artistic endeavor, I do however believe that an absolute truth does exist in art; a truth that not everybody might agree upon, but a truth that reflects the artists’ personal outlook on life and perception of reality. In my opinion, an artist will sell ambiguity to the superficial observer in order to ward off people whom he/she doesn’t consider worthy of this truth. Satirical art is a prime example of this: for instance, art critics during the 17th century would have never had the clairvoyance or audacity to point out the satirical nature of Lafontaine’s fables (some even called it abstract and juvenile), however, we now know that all his work was a way for him to convey the truth about the decadent monarchy at the time. So, can we say that there was no truth in his work if we didn’t know his intent? Truth does not necessarily refer to a concrete concept that cannot be contradicted, truth can be very personal and intimate and may only make sense to the person who owns it: in this case, the artist. Of course there is truth in every art work ever created, only, such truth can only appeal to the artist given the experiences and circumstances he/she went through. Discovering this truth is not the end all be all of art appraisal, but acknowledging its existence is a step closer to true appreciation of the artwork.
Thursday 10 January 2013
Art and Truth
While I am certainly in accordance with the argument that a universal truth cannot transpire off an artistic endeavor, I do however believe that an absolute truth does exist in art; a truth that not everybody might agree upon, but a truth that reflects the artists’ personal outlook on life and perception of reality. In my opinion, an artist will sell ambiguity to the superficial observer in order to ward off people whom he/she doesn’t consider worthy of this truth. Satirical art is a prime example of this: for instance, art critics during the 17th century would have never had the clairvoyance or audacity to point out the satirical nature of Lafontaine’s fables (some even called it abstract and juvenile), however, we now know that all his work was a way for him to convey the truth about the decadent monarchy at the time. So, can we say that there was no truth in his work if we didn’t know his intent? Truth does not necessarily refer to a concrete concept that cannot be contradicted, truth can be very personal and intimate and may only make sense to the person who owns it: in this case, the artist. Of course there is truth in every art work ever created, only, such truth can only appeal to the artist given the experiences and circumstances he/she went through. Discovering this truth is not the end all be all of art appraisal, but acknowledging its existence is a step closer to true appreciation of the artwork.
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I strongly agree with your theories despite the fact I think you're really thinking too philosophically here. What I personally think about the Lafontaine's fables and his overlooked messages, is just that during that time, people couldn't analyze what art was trying to convey as much as we are able to do it nowadays. The poor Lafontaine was unlucky to live in such a period. However, answering to your clear question I would definitely say that, the truth was obviously presented in his arts but due to a low point of view range the message couldn't be grasped. Indeed, I think that the truth can be defined differently depending on one's point of view or perception which shapes consequently the truth or what is trying to be conveyed by the art itself. Moreover truth might as well not be defined further proving that it is all about one's perception.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Pietro... I wonder if we are more aware now of subjectivity and the relativity of truth, than pre-twentieth century people in general? Even to the extent, Rayane, that I do not think there is such a thing as absolute truth - whether in regard to the decadent French monarchy, satire, history or anything else.
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