Number 17A, 1948 by Jackson Pollock. This painting was sold in 2015 for a staggering $200 million. Photo from Wikipedia by private collection.

In the labyrinth of art galleries and exhibitions, amidst the cacophony of colors and shapes, one trend stands out starkly: abstract art. Yet, as admirers gaze upon seemingly random splatters and geometric shapes, one question lingers in the air: should abstract art be recycled? While the term “destroyed” may seem harsh, the notion of recycling abstract art suggests a transformative process, one that repurposes the canvas for more meaningful expressions. Here, we delve into the rationale behind reclaiming art from the abstract abyss.

Firstly, let’s address the elephant in the room, which is the ambiguity of abstract art. For too long, artists have hidden behind the guise of “interpretation,” leaving viewers perplexed and detached from the artistic experience. By recycling abstract art, we aim to replace ambiguity with clarity, allowing art to communicate universal truths and evoke genuine emotion.

Moreover, abstract art often perpetuates a culture of elitism and exclusivity. As spectators ponder over minimalist compositions or obscure installations, they may feel alienated from the artistic narrative. Recycling abstract art challenges this exclusivity, transforming it into accessible creations that resonate with a broader audience.

Consider also the question of skill and craftsmanship. While abstract art may celebrate spontaneity and intuition, it often neglects the discipline and technical prowess that define traditional art forms. By recycling abstract art, we honour the dedication and expertise of artists who invest countless hours refining their craft.

But perhaps the most compelling argument for recycling abstract art lies in its environmental impact. As canvases accumulate in galleries and storage facilities, they contribute to the depletion of resources and the proliferation of waste. By repurposing these canvases, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also breathe new life into forgotten artworks.

In essence, the call to recycle abstract art is a call to reclaim art’s essence: to inspire, to provoke, and to resonate with the human spirit. It is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the enduring relevance of artistic expression.

So, as we navigate the realm of art and aesthetics, let us not shy away from challenging the status quo. Let us embrace the opportunity to recycle abstract art, breathing new life into the canvas and rekindling the flames of artistic innovation. In doing so, we pave the way for a more inclusive, meaningful, and sustainable artistic landscape.

Ben Hinton, Environmental Science major, states, “I feel some forms of art, especially abstract walk the razor blade, in terms of meaning and impact on the viewer. Some can view a spatter of dots on a canvas and see chaos, while others can see a landscape of color illustrating one’s mind. Like many things, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and very subjective”.

Ely Butler, who is an Art major, adds, “I like certain abstract art pieces, but some have no meaning to them. Art is supposed to have meaning. One single paintbrush dot on a white canvas doesn’t seem to have much meaning to me, but I suppose, to the artist, it could mean the world. One big dot next to another could mean so many things. It could be you versus the world, or you versus some higher power, or even a minority fighting against all odds. How people interpret it, is in the eye of the beholder. Everyone sees different things, and that’s what’s cool about abstract art. What you see is up to you.”