Joëlle Zask Argues Art Practices Embody Democratic Citizenship

In her book "Art et démocratie," philosopher Joëlle Zask posits that artistic endeavors represent democratic behavior more effectively than any other domain. She asserts that artists exemplify ideal citizenship by engaging with a variety of perspectives through their works. Zask refutes the idea that democracy results in uniformity, instead framing it as a realm of individuality with the motto "Let each count for one." She differentiates between republican citizenship, rooted in consensual relationships, and participatory democratic citizenship. Zask contrasts republican educational institutions with democratic ones, claiming that art schools reflect the democratic model. Conversations with artists such as Séchas and Sylvie Fanchon illustrate how artistic practices embody democratic principles. The book, published by Presses universitaires de France, received a review from Catherine Francblin.