How Institutions Influence Art and Our Lives

Vertical vs. Horizontal Institutions and their Impact on Society

Kanō Einō (1631–1697), “Birds and Flowers of Spring and Summer”

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In today’s world, it is possible to study fine arts at a variety of institutions with the most prestigious ones providing their students with the highest probability of success in the art industry. They give their students a good chance of finding institutional support after graduation, of finding a patron, or of meeting potential curators and collectors.

There is no doubt that at every step of a successful artistic life, there is always institutional support nearby. The question is what role these institutions should play in the lives of artists and how much they should influence their creations.

You already know I am a philosopher not an artist. However, I have been working with the international artist Season Lao for quite a while now. This has connected me to a world that is very different from the academic world I am familiar with. I would like to share an interesting debate that I have discussed with leaders in the art industry in Japan, where I live.