Art as Capital: The Intersection of Science, Technology, and the Arts

The growth of the creative industries and new media investigations in art are positive developments, but there is a lack of critical reflection on this form of creative production. This book highlights the dangers of subordinating art to the economy and politics, which can lead to the loss of its independence from other spheres of human activity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2021
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Creative industries are flourishing globally, accompanied by innovative new media explorations in art and initiatives fostering artistic innovation for economic purposes. Nevertheless, there is a notable absence of critical analysis regarding this form of creative production. This significant work highlights the risks and drawbacks associated with the surge of the creative industries, as well as the marginalization of art in favor of the economy and politics. Specifically, it underscores the loss of art's independence from other domains of human activity, a core aspect that it has ardently pursued throughout modernity.

The growth of the creative industries has brought about significant changes in the way art is produced, distributed, and consumed. It has created new opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs, but it has also raised concerns about the commodification of art and the erosion of artistic integrity.

One of the main dangers of the creative industries' boom is the subordination of art to the economy. In many cases, artists are forced to prioritize commercial success over artistic expression, leading to the production of art that is shallow and superficial. This can have a negative impact on the cultural landscape, as it reduces the diversity and depth of artistic expression.

Furthermore, the creative industries' focus on economic growth can lead to the exploitation of artists and workers. Many artists are paid low wages, work long hours, and have little control over their creative output. This can create a culture of inequality and injustice, as some artists are able to achieve great success while others struggle to make a living.

Another concern is the loss of artistic autonomy and independence. As the creative industries become more commercialized, artists are often subjected to strict guidelines and regulations imposed by corporations and governments. This can limit their ability to express themselves creatively and challenge social and political norms.

Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for artists and the creative industries to thrive in a sustainable and ethical manner. One approach is to prioritize the production of high-quality art that is meaningful and socially relevant. This can create a market for art that is valued for its artistic merit rather than its commercial value.

Furthermore, artists and the creative industries can work together to create new models of collaboration and distribution that prioritize the interests of artists and the public. This can include initiatives such as artist-run spaces, cooperatives, and crowdfunding platforms that provide artists with more control over their creative output and allow them to connect with a wider audience.

In conclusion, the growth of the creative industries has brought about both opportunities and challenges for artists and the cultural landscape. While it has created new opportunities for artistic expression and economic growth, it has also led to the subordination of art to the economy, the exploitation of artists and workers, and the loss of artistic autonomy and independence. By prioritizing the production of high-quality art that is meaningful and socially relevant, as well as by creating new models of collaboration and distribution, artists and the creative industries can thrive in a sustainable and ethical manner.

Weight: 178g
Dimension: 228 x 160 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538154229