Stefano Monti on Art's Role in the Age of Musk

In an article on Artribune, Domenico Ioppolo questions the role and function of art in contemporary society, calling for a new artistic vitality. Stefano Monti responds, arguing that contemporary art's exclusivity stems from its own system—galleries, museums, and foundations—which creates cognitive barriers. Monti contrasts this with street art, which he says is the only universally recognized contemporary art form, citing Banksy's 13.2 million Instagram followers versus Fedez's 13.8 million. He contends that contemporary art's complex, self-referential codes alienate broader audiences, while platforms like Instagram engage people more effectively. Monti points to exceptions like Cattelan's golden toilet, Prada Marfa, and Marina Abramović's festival appearances as examples of more accessible art. He concludes that the distribution channel—rather than the art itself—needs reform to break down barriers, and that technology, not art, offers silent resistance in a world demanding worship of artworks.