Art Quote by John Champlin Gardner Jr
““In a world where nearly everything that passes for art is tinny and commercial and often, in addition, hollow and academic, I argue--by reason and by banging the table--for an old-fashioned view of what art is and does and what the fundamental business of critics ought therefore to be. Not that I want joy taken out of the arts; but even frothy entertainment is not harmed by a touch of moral responsibility, at least an evasion of too fashionable simplifications.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Role of Critics” in The Art of Criticism, 1995
He argues critics should uphold moral responsibility in art, resisting shallow, commercial trends.
In simple terms: Critics must balance joy with ethical standards.
Key Takeaway
Promote thoughtful, responsible criticism.
Themes
art criticism
ethics
commercialism
culture
Mood
reflective
critical
serious
Type
essay
manifesto
When to use this quote
- film reviews
- literary analysis
- museum curation
- media commentary
Key Concepts
moral responsibility
cultural stewardship
Questions to Reflect On
- Should critics prioritize moral duty over enjoyment?
- Can art be both entertaining and responsible?
A Different Perspective
Risk of stifling artistic freedom with over‑caution.
