ARTSPLOITATION Meaning and
Definition
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Artsploitation refers to a genre of films that combine elements of artistry and exploitation. It is a term that emerged in the late 20th century to describe a particular style of filmmaking that aims to provoke, shock, or challenge its audience through the use of unconventional and often controversial themes, imagery, and storytelling techniques.
The term "artsploitation" is derived from the words "art" and "exploitation," which reflects the dual nature of these films. On one hand, they strive to be thought-provoking, pushing boundaries and experimenting with artistic techniques in ways that challenge traditional narratives and aesthetics. These films often tackle taboo subjects, explore abstract concepts, or confront social and political issues, aiming to engage the viewer on an intellectual and emotional level.
At the same time, artsploitation films have their roots in the exploitation cinema of the mid-20th century. They borrow elements from exploitation genres such as horror, action, and sexploitation, using provocative imagery, graphic violence, and explicit content to shock and entertain their audience.
The essence of artsploitation lies in the blending of highbrow artistic sensibilities with the visceral thrills and shocks of exploitation cinema. These films often strive to challenge conventional notions of morality, aesthetics, and narrative structure. By deliberately pushing boundaries and defying expectations, artsploitation films aim to provoke strong reactions, spark debates, and leave a lasting impact on their viewers.
Etymology of ARTSPLOITATION
The term "artsploitation" is a blend of two words: "art" and "exploitation".
The word "art" stems from the Latin term "ars", which means skill or craft. It has been in use since ancient times to refer to human creativity, aesthetics, and expressions of imagination. Over time, "art" has evolved to encompass various forms of artistic endeavors, including visual arts, literature, performing arts, and more.
On the other hand, "exploitation" comes from the Latin word "exploitare", which means to utilize or make use of. In its original sense, "exploitation" referred to the action of using and benefiting from resources, often in an economic or industrial context. However, in a cultural context, "exploitation" can refer to the use of sensationalist or controversial elements to attract attention or achieve commercial success.
