H.L. Mencken
In order to have an opinion regarding the controversial views of artist and their work; one must come to terms with the meaning of art. Art is abstract, it involves the ordinary and entwining it into a creation of many dimensions. Art is creativity, expression, rebirth and a state of mind. There is no one concrete definition for this subject. For what one person considers art may not be the same perspective of another individual. Art is varied according to the artist and the public it is intended for. In all art like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. Many variations of creations are sheltered under the category of art. With each creation being precious and unique in it's own manner.Keeping in mind the idea that art has branched categories, H.L Mencken's views on artist relationship towards society are valid to a certain degree. Mencken's theory states that an artist of any dignity is against his country; and in a reciprocal manner his country is against him. Not only does Mencken state what artist of dignity are, he also goes on to define them. "Artist have special qualities that break them apart from the rest of us." Artist have an "extraordinary capacity for irritation, a pathological sensitivity that separa
In today's society Mencken's theory has specks of truth in it. Mencken's theory was on the right course, there is room in it for change and improvement. After careful observations it is not hard to see that artist are people and differ, like the job they perform. Now to say that Jackson has a pathological sensitivity seems sardonic after he is seen spending frivolously over half a million dollars on two vases for his home. It wasn't as much the patriotism that evoked a feeling of action among these artist; it was the sudden and tragic loss of innocent lives. " Regular citizens are unmoved, or merely annoyed this description is like glove on hand for Jackson. Like in any other industry, there are other artist who are not concerned with the changes around the world. Yet there are equally as many followers who see Thorpe as a leader for tolerance, not only for homosexuals, but for all groups of people who are labeled as different. Jackson is a great performer, he has many fans and his popularity is unbelievable. For example, after September 11, the United States saw the gathering of many artist to pay tribute to the families of those who passed away. There are artist like Maple Thorpe, who does Homo erotic art, he is detested by many who feel that what he shares is not a form of art, but a form of pornography. Mencken describes the thoughts of these creators as minds that are able to see outside the ordinary. This proves Mencken's theory wrong in the analysis of artist relationship with society. " He is not the kind to sit still and watch the world pass him by, he is proactive.
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