The definition of an artist is constantly changing, evolving alongside with the definition of art. When different mediums and styles are added to the long list of what was considered to be art, their producers are added to the long list of what was considered to be an artist. Although one was only considered an artist if they attended some form of formal art education back in the 15th century, the same definition no longer applies in the 21st century. A 21st century definition of an artist is anyone who produces something from any medium that can send a message and/or produces an aesthetic appeal.
Although many people continue to go to art school to formalize their training in the arts, there are artists who have no formal training. For example, Frieda Kahlo had no formal training, yet she had wonderful skills as a painter. Other examples would be Salvador Dali and Claude Monet, who had natural abilities to create something without formal training (although they did attend some form of formal training later in their lives, San Fernando Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid and a private teacher, respectively). If one has a natural talent in some form of the arts, they can be a modern-day artist without any formal training, and not fall under the 15th century definition of an artist.
Artists that create art to send a message often have controversial atmospheres to them. For example, Andres Serrano’s “Piss Christ”, which showed a small plastic crucifix supporting the body of Jesus Christ submerged in a glass of the artist’s urine, was considered controversial when it was first exhibited in 1989. Many were shocked at “Piss Christ” and considered it blasphemous. “Piss Christ” is now seen as test of an artist’s first amendment rights in America. As result of our first amendment rights, many modern-day artists are able to send messages through their controversial creations.
Artists do not have atmosphere, they are shrouded by an …
A pleasure to read non-the-less. Well done.