The Line: Fine Art & Craft

Since as recently as the mid-1500s fine art was placed higher than craft in the art hierarchy. This has been problematic and disrespectful to the intense labor and beauty that craft consists of. A bare bones definition to explain art is: something that is useless- without function, while the definition for craft has always been: something that is useful - something that has a function that may also happen to be beautiful. But this gets messy, take for instance Necklace designed and made by Tone Vigeland:

Using a strict matrix by which to judge this piece one would say it's craft, it's a necklace after all and can be worn. However here's the problem, it can't actually be worn. It's made of hand forged and flattened steel to ultimately achieve a feather-like look. Because of  its construction it loses its function. So, is it craft or fine art? Should there even be a distinction? Or should we simply allow craft to stand side-by-side with painting in the hierarchy of the arts? 

- Grace

Ken Price: Ceramic Master

Los Angeles-based American artist Ken Price creates astounding ceramic sculptures that beg to be contemplated and evoke emotion rare from such a humble material. 

Out West

2010

Bro

2009

Sissy

2007

Marti

2006

L. Blue

1961

Untitled (Two Parts)

1974

Price's variety of work (more can be viewed at kenprice.com) illustrates his high level of skill. His ability to master both biomorphic as well as geometric shapes creates a wide range of work all bearing his signature. 

What do you think? Do you like Ken's work? Do you think his work is fine art or craft?

- Grace