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The Economies of Serious and Popular Art: How They Diverged and Reunited

The Economies of Serious and Popular Art: How They Diverged and Reunited

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  • More about The Economies of Serious and Popular Art: How They Diverged and Reunited


This book explores the historical and economic factors that have led to the separation of 'popular' and 'serious' art over the past two centuries, examining who has benefited from this distinction, the importance of exclusivity in the established arts, and the impact of low incomes on access to art. It also discusses the evolution of art in the twenty-first century, including the impact of the platform economy and the level of diversity in the art world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 345 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG


This comprehensive book delves into the historical and sociological factors that have shaped the divide between 'popular' and 'serious' art over nearly two centuries. By integrating economic perspectives with sociological and historical insights, the author explores the evolving boundaries between our perceptions of established art and the emerging popularity of mass culture. Central to the book's inquiry are questions such as: Who has benefited from the separation between popular and serious art? Why is exclusivity in the established arts considered crucial? Did the pursuit of exclusivity lead to high costs, subsidies, and prices? Have underprivileged groups been excluded from art consumption and production? How did popular music achieve such remarkable success in the second half of the twentieth century? Despite low incomes, why does the art profession continue to hold a strong allure for young individuals? Furthermore, the book examines the evolving landscape of art in the twenty-first century, considering the impact of the platform economy on the arts, the integration of established arts into the entertainment industry, and the current level of diversity in art. Written from the dual perspectives of an artist and social scientist, this book appeals to a wide range of readers, including cultural economists, academics, artists, and general enthusiasts interested in the world of art.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031186479
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022

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