The institutional theory of art is a concept within the field of aesthetics that studies the relationship between art and the institutions that define it. It posits that the perception and categorization of what is considered art is largely influenced by social and cultural institutions, rather than by individual artists or inherent aesthetic qualities.
According to this theory, art is not an inherent property of objects or creations, but rather a status conferred upon them by the art world – a network of institutions, such as galleries, museums, art critics, and collectors. These institutions play a significant role in determining what is acknowledged and valued as art within a particular society or culture.
The institutional theory suggests that art is a social construct, shaped by historical and cultural factors, and that it evolves and changes over time as institutions and their definitions of art evolve. It emphasizes the importance of the art world in validating and legitimizing artistic works and practices.
This view challenges traditional notions of artistic genius and the quest for subjective aesthetic value, shifting the focus towards the social, economic, and political dimensions of art. Supporters of the institutional theory argue that it provides a more comprehensive understanding of art by considering the broader socio-cultural context in which it is produced and consumed.
Overall, the institutional theory of art offers a framework for analyzing the complex interplay between artistic creation, institutional practices, and the social construction of meaning in the world of art.
