Elitism in Art Is a Choice, Not a Destiny: A Critique of Blaming Capitalism
In a thought-provoking essay featured in Artribune, Angelo Argento disputes the notion that capitalism is the root of elitism in modern art. He posits that capitalism is inherently expansionist and indifferent to artistic content, aiming to reach a wider audience. Argento points out that capital often invests in politically engaged sectors, demonstrating its flexibility. He attributes elitism to the actions of cultural institutions, curators, and committees, arguing that it stems from their choices rather than being an unavoidable outcome. He stresses the importance of culture as a framework for equitable access. By differentiating complexity from exclusion, Argento critiques the tendency to hold capitalism accountable for cultural inequalities. He advocates for reforming institutions to prioritize research, embrace risk, and assess artistic directions based on audience engagement. Ultimately, he asserts that the art crisis is linked to its role within the system rather than capitalism itself.
Key facts
- Angelo Argento wrote an opinion piece for Artribune arguing that elitism in contemporary art is a choice, not a structural destiny.
- The essay critiques the tendency to blame capitalism for the art world's self-referentiality and exclusivity.
- Argento argues that capitalism is opportunistic and indifferent to content, and would logically seek to expand its audience, not restrict it.
- He cites that capital invests in politically engaged niches like postcolonialism and gender issues, showing its adaptability.
- Responsibility for elitism is placed on cultural institutions, curators, artistic directors, committees, and juries.
- The author distinguishes between complexity (which produces knowledge) and exclusion (which produces belonging to a closed circle).
- Argento calls for rebuilding institutions to distribute access, rewarding research over statements, and creating new audiences.
- The piece references Christian Caliandro's diagnosis of the 'rubber wall of elitism' but disputes the attribution to capitalism.
- The essay concludes by asking not how much capitalism is in art, but how much art remains in the art system.
Entities
Artists
- Angelo Argento
- Christian Caliandro
Institutions
- Artribune