THE CREATIVE PROCESS IN THE POPULAR ARTS

In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Band 20, Heft 4, S. 613-624

Abstract

Discussions of popular culture commonly suggest that the imputed poor quality of such material is due to the application of mass production techniques to the creative process. However, while mass production technologies are widely employed in the reproduction & dissemination of artistic products, the actual act of creation may still be performed in traditional ways. DofL is widespread in popular culture agencies, but may not affect the creative process. Large, bur'tic org's do not necessarily stifle creativity, & are indeed characteristic of theatre, ballet & musical performance. Popular artists are not necessarily alienated from their work. They may internalize the norms of the producing agency, or be effectively insulated from other reference groups. Specialized marketing operations allow scope for the development of specialized & quasi- professional skills. Alienation may be a graver problem for the more `serious' creative or performing artist, since direct contact with the audience is being rendered progressively harder by the rise of middlemen. Greater attention needs to be paid to the relationships between product quality, org of production, creative activity & the artist's att's. AA.