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July 08, 2026, 01:00:01 PM |
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Lately, I've been constantly thinking about how art should be integrated into everyday life. I come across posts that talk about the positive effects of simply being a viewer of art on human consciousness. In my opinion, this discourse exists to ensure the continued existence of museums and galleries. I'm not arguing that looking at artworks is unnecessary; the connection established between the artwork and the viewer is invaluable. However, I believe that the integration of art into everyday life needs to be re-evaluated from a Situationist perspective.
Inspired by the avant-garde art movements that preceded them, the Situationist International opposed the dominance of galleries and museums over art, while also resisting the attribution of art production solely to the artist. Art should be an action that every human being, regardless of their role, should undertake. Constant (Anton Nieuwenhuys) argues that the artist's role can be that of a revolutionary; the most important task of art is the activation of the creative impulse in individuals. In this context, attributing art solely to the artist, reducing individuals to mere spectators in galleries and museums, and appealing only to the sense of sight, reduces individuals to objects. However, the body is not merely "an object among objects." Merleau-Ponty points out that what prevents the body from being a "wholly constituted" object is that objects exist through it. The body is not just any of the external objects; it is the purpose of existence. "To possess a body, for a living being, to participate in a particular environment, to be intertwined with certain designs, is to be constantly connected to it" (Merleau-Ponty, 2017, p. 127).
Today, the relationship an individual has with their body is increasingly damaged. In individuals whose daily gestures are already restricted by modern modes of production, the increasing development of artificial intelligence is once again making sight the sole priority sense. The connection between consciousness and body is becoming increasingly severed. Yet, body and consciousness mutually support each other. Motor skill disorders are also increasing, especially in the new generations, of individuals who have severed their connection with their bodies. Contextual thinking is being replaced by one-dimensional learning. It is crucial for our existence as embodied subjects that we not only be viewers of art but also incorporate art production as a discipline into our daily lives. Art production (whatever we produce) is a practice born from the interplay of body, consciousness, and spirit, allowing us to remain in the moment without focusing on the outcome. And its true healing power lies within the act of production itself.
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