An Aesthetic Comparison of Erotic Art Verses Pornographic Art
In: https://digitalcollections.saic.edu/islandora/object/islandora%3A75681
There is a fine line between what one would refer to as Erotic Art or Pornographic Art. Throughout history, art has been consistently producing erotica and pornography. In some societies this was related to religious beliefs and in others it was a part of everyday life. Today erotica and pornography are controversial, with some saying it is perfectly natural, while others are offended. Obscenity is a taboo, especially when it contains pornographic material, which many believe exploit the subject. Yet, there is a fine line between what is obscene and what is merely erotic. Sex is a subject depicted often in society, for it is used to sell merchandise, on TV shows and in movies and a popular theme in musical lyrics as well as poetry and literature. Erotica and pornography in art is a political statement. It is a statement of freedom of speech. Modern artists explore sexuality through their work, and in many cases the work is heavily critiqued by society. It is this exploration that, throughout all of history, has interested many scholars and the public as well. Representing sexuality can be both intriguing and controversial. Through analyzation one can better understand and contemplate the meaning implicit in erotic and pornographic works of art. And through further examination, one can begin to see what the subtle differences are between erotic art and pornographic art.