The work of art as a social expression

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation was to analyse art as a social expression. This was done through studying contemporary art forms referring mainly to Installation Art and the Art of abstraction. In this dissertation, sociological theories on art were presented and analysed. This study endeavoured to examine the relationship between cultural values and their influence on works of art within the local context. The religious institution and its role as a barrier and resistant to new art forms were discussed. Furthermore, the European scenario especially its influence on the local art world was studied through the eyes of Post-war Maltese artists who were mainly trained in Italy. Social symbolic theories on art and the coexistence of multiplicity of art forms were discussed. Furthermore, prominence was given to Feminist theories regarding the art world. The research was based on case studies and participant observation. The reason for adopting case study research method was to provide a rich and in-depth description of the participants' perception. Throughout this study, it was argued that artists used their art as a tool for changing cultural values within the Maltese society. Two local art groups were studied in order to examine new ways of social expression adopted by Maltese artists. One of these groups - The Modem Art Circle was active in the fifties. Its members introduced abstract art. Its repercussions were witnessed in the detailed analysis of the contemporary art group Start and their particular interest in Installation Art. These forms of expression were studied in relation to the meanings attached to new forms of art. Results from the case studies revealed that the participants had comparable perceptions on issues like the role of the public in the art world. However, they had different perceptions on the influence of moral values and issues of nudity in art within the Maltese context. All agreed that there is a great need for art education among the Maltese general public. This would surely enhance the appreciation and understanding of different forms of art in the Maltese Islands.