The discussion on blurring the separation between art and life, explained by cases such as Morgan’s Lane, I began to think of what other lines can be crossed or blurred in the art world. This led me to think of the connection and distinction between an artist and his artwork. I came across an article discussing this topic, and which used filmmaker Woody Allen as an example. Allen is a talented and successful filmmaker; however, his personal life has caused many to question his character. He was accused of molesting his daughter, and eventually married a daughter he adopted. However, should this part of his life cause his peers to judge his work, and dislike his films? Should we not watch Allen’s films because of these accusations? Or should the two be separate? Further, if Allen’s name wasn’t attached to the film, and instead the work was anonymous, then what would peoples’ opinions be? Would it still get as much attention and criticism? This is a topic that I feel will continue to haunt the art world, especially in a world of social media. Nothing is anonymous anymore, it appears, and creating a distinction between an artist and his work seems almost impossible. Instead, we make our opinions based first on the name we hear, and then on the art we see, perhaps clouding our judgment and shaping our biased views.
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