Truth and Lies in Contemporary Art: A Philosophical Reflection

Christian Caliandro, an art historian and professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, reflects on the role of truth in contemporary art. Drawing on Jerzy Grotowski's 1970 'Discourse at Skara' and Philip K. Dick's 'Exegesis', he argues that great art must pursue truth, even if it conflicts with public expectations. Caliandro contends that art oriented toward audience approval becomes mere falsification, creating a 'pseudoreality' that separates from truth. He emphasizes that lying is a choice, and artists bear responsibility for their work's authenticity. The text critiques contemporary art's obligation to conform to official values and contexts, which often results in counterfeit works that are merely 'content'. Caliandro calls for a return to humility and a 'trance-like' state in creation, renouncing the desire to please or conform. The article was published on Artribune in May 2023.