For years, community art was created by a professional for the enjoyment or education of a public group. How did the definition change in the 19th century?
In the 19th century, the definition of community art began to shift from solely focusing on work produced by professionals for public enjoyment and education to a more inclusive and participatory approach. This change was primarily driven by the social, political, and cultural transformations that characterized the era, including industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of democratic ideals.
The shift in the concept of community art emerged in tandem with new philosophies and movements, such as the Arts and Crafts Movement, which emphasized the importance of craftsmanship and the connection between art, work, and society. Additionally, influential thinkers like John Ruskin and William Morris began advocating for the democratization of art, arguing that everyone should have access to it and be able to participate in its creation.
As a result, community art came to be understood as not only being created for public enjoyment and education but also involving community members in the creative process. This broadened definition encompassed art workshops, participatory public art projects, and more decentralized and grassroots cultural initiatives. In this new context, community art became a means to promote social cohesion, engage citizens in civic life, and foster a sense of shared identity and belonging.