Decoding the Shift: Why Today's Art Falls Short of Centuries Past

It's essential to approach this topic with nuance, recognizing that art is subjective and evolves over time. While some individuals may perceive today's art as inferior to that of a century ago, it's crucial to consider various factors that contribute to this perception:

1. Lack of Technical Skill: Some argue that contemporary art often lacks the technical mastery seen in art from the past. With the rise of conceptual art and minimalism, there's a perception that artists prioritize concept over technical skill, leading to a decrease in the quality of execution.

2. The Erosion of Dedication: As time goes by, as we think we are advancing in life, we’re getting weaker and weaker, for no one wants to be a scholar anymore, no one is willing to dedicate his life to his craft, which led us to this point. The lack of substance, craftsmanship, self-criticism, and self-dedication.

3. Commercialization and Consumerism: Today's art world is often criticized for being driven by commercial interests rather than artistic expression. Galleries, museums, and art fairs prioritize marketability over artistic integrity, resulting in a proliferation of superficial and commercially driven works.

4. Reliance on Shock Value: Critics suggest that contemporary artists often resort to shock value or gimmicks to gain attention rather than focusing on meaningful expression. This can lead to art that lacks depth or substance, relying solely on provocation to make an impact.

5. Loss of Tradition and Craftsmanship: Traditional artistic techniques and craftsmanship are sometimes seen as neglected in favor of more experimental or avant-garde approaches. This can lead to a perceived decline in the appreciation and preservation of traditional art forms.

6. Overemphasis on Conceptualism: While conceptual art can be thought-provoking and innovative, critics argue that it often prioritizes intellectual ideas over aesthetic appeal or emotional resonance. This can result in art that feels disconnected from the viewer or lacks universal appeal.

7. Fragmentation of Artistic Movements: Unlike the cohesive movements of the past (such as Impressionism or Cubism), contemporary art is characterized by fragmentation and diversity. While this diversity can be enriching, some argue that it leads to a lack of cohesion and direction in the art world.

8. Loss of Artistic Authenticity: With the advent of digital technology and mass production, there's a perception that contemporary art has lost its sense of authenticity and originality. Replication, appropriation, and manipulation of images have become commonplace, raising questions about the uniqueness and sincerity of contemporary artworks.

Ultimately, the perception of today's art as "worse" than that of a century ago is subjective and depends on individual tastes, values, and cultural context. Art is a reflection of its time and context, and different perspectives will always exist on its value and quality.

Thank you for reading this blog post. If you found the information helpful and want to stay up-to-date with my latest thoughts on career development, be sure to follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or comments. I look forward to connecting with you!