What does “good art” mean?

"Good art” is a subjective term that can have different interpretations depending on the context and perspective of the individual. In general, “good art” is often considered to have the following qualities:

●      Aesthetically pleasing: Good art is visually appealing and captures the viewer's attention through its composition, use of color, form, and other elements.

●      Emotional impact: Good art has the ability to evoke an emotional response in the viewer, whether it be happiness, sadness, awe, or any other feeling.

●      Intellectual stimulation: Good art often prompts the viewer to think about important ideas or concepts, either through its subject matter or its form.

●      Originality: Good art is often seen as innovative and unique, pushing the boundaries of conventional art forms or presenting new perspectives on familiar subjects.

●      Technical skill: Good art is typically characterized by mastery of the medium and technical skill, as evidenced by the artist's ability to effectively convey their vision.

As you’ve just read and studied above in Travis Anderson’s article about seeking after the good in the arts, the qualities listed here are quite similar to the three important steps Anderson challenges us to consider in our seeking after that which is virtuous, lovely, of good report or praiseworthy. We will next consider each of Anderson’s steps in turn, with discussion of exemplifying artistic works from around the world.

An example of a modern artwork that embodies the idea that art should be taken seriously and with a certain degree of tolerance is Pablo Picasso's Guernica. This iconic painting, created in 1937, is widely considered one of the greatest masterpieces of 20th-century art, and is celebrated for its powerful political commentary, its striking composition, and its bold use of form, color (it’s essentially monochromatic), and symbolism.

This large mural-like painting, measuring some 11’ 6” x 25’ 6”, Guernica was created in response to the bombing of the town of Guernica—located in northern Spain’s Basque Country—during the Spanish Civil War, and depicts the horror and suffering of war in a fragmented and abstract style that was considered revolutionary at the time. Despite its political content, the painting has been widely acclaimed for its timeless artistic merit, and its cultural significance as a work of art is undeniable. 

This example demonstrates that even works of art that address difficult or controversial political issues can be important and valuable, and that we should be willing to engage with such works with a certain degree of tolerance and openness. In sum, Picasso’s Guernica serves as a reminder that art should be taken seriously, and that it has the power to inspire, challenge, and transform us in profound ways, even when the subject matter is difficult to confront.

A non-Western example of art that appears to meet Anderson’s above criteria are the rock-cut temples of Ajanta and Ellora in India. These temples, built between 2nd century BC–6th century AD, are considered masterpieces of Buddhist and Hindi religious art and are known for their intricate carvings, sculptures, and murals (see images below). The Ajanta and Ellora temples and caves are a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and offer a window into the beliefs, values, and artistic traditions of ancient Indian society.

The art in these temples is a departure from the more familiar Western artistic traditions, yet it still promotes qualities of beauty, truth, and goodness. The intricate carvings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as various Hindu and Jain myths and legends, providing a rich cultural and religious tapestry. The beauty of the art is not limited to its visual appeal, but also extends to its spiritual and philosophical depth.

Visiting the Ajanta and Ellora temples is an opportunity to broaden one's horizons and expand one's appreciation for beauty, truth, and goodness beyond the confines of one's own culture and experience. By encountering art from other parts of the world, one can gain a greater understanding of different perspectives and cultural traditions, and develop a more nuanced appreciation for the diversity of human creativity.

Kailash temple (Ellora cave no 15) at Verul.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Ajanta Cave artwork, c. 2nd century BC, medium: dry fresco.

Photo Credit; Wikimedia. Public Domain

Finally, a specific artwork that exemplifies Anderson’s final step in seeking after that which is good–and one that surely requires purposeful preparation and effort from the viewer in order to more fully appreciate its “goodness”—is the conceptual work by Christo and Jeanne-Claude known as The Gates. Created in 2005, the artwork consisted of 7,503 steel gates that were installed throughout Central Park in New York City, each gate topped with a swath of saffron-colored fabric. The gates spanned 23 miles of footpaths throughout the park, creating a striking and unexpected visual experience for visitors. (You may visit Remembering the Gates to see images.)

The Gates conceptual installation was the result of years of planning and preparation by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, who had to navigate a complex web of political, environmental, and logistical hurdles in order to bring their vision to life. The project required extensive research into the ecology of Central Park, as well as detailed negotiations with local officials, park administrators, and community groups.

In order to fully appreciate The Gates, a more than casual viewer interest is certainly required. This may include researching the history of Christo and Jeanne-Claude's work, understanding the conceptual and aesthetic motivations behind the project, and considering its impact on the local community and the environment. 

Without question, The Gates project remains one of the most memorable and beloved public artworks of the 21st century, offering a powerful example of the transformative power of art and the potential for large-scale public installations to create a sense of wonder and awe. 

In conclusion, it is true that art is a vital aspect of human culture and should be taken seriously. Art has the power to evoke emotions, challenge beliefs, and provide insight into the human condition. It can be a means of communication, a form of self-expression, and a reflection of society. It is through the study and analysis of art that we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. However, it is also important to approach art with a certain degree of tolerance. Art is subjective and can often elicit strong emotions and opinions. It is essential to remember that everyone is entitled to their own perspectives and interpretations of art. This tolerance allows us to engage in meaningful discussions and debates about art without resorting to personal attacks or judgment. 

Likewise, expanding our appreciation for art beyond our own views and preferences is an important ingredient in our pursuit of “good” art. It allows us to broaden our perspectives and understanding of different cultures, histories, and experiences. By exposing ourselves to art that challenges our beliefs and expands our horizons, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the world around us. This can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of beauty, truth, and goodness, and help us to see beyond our individual experiences to the larger, more universal aspects of human existence. Whether it is through visiting museums, attending art exhibitions, or reading about different art movements, the effort put into exploring art that is outside of our comfort zone can be a rich and rewarding experience.

Finally, it goes without saying that studying and analyzing art require considerable preparation and effort on the part of the audience and viewer. To truly understand and appreciate the complexities of art, one must immerse themselves in the historical and cultural context in which it was created, as well as the techniques and materials used by the artist. This requires more than casual research, in addition to at least a basic understanding of art history, aesthetics, and critical theories. Additionally, the ability to effectively analyze a work of art requires the viewer to begin developing their visual literacy, together with an ability to articulate complex ideas and emotions through observation and interpretation. In sum, the effort put into studying and analyzing art can be both challenging and rewarding, as it allows individuals to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the art world and its significance in our lives.