The term "art swallowed up" refers to a phenomenon in which the innovations, uniqueness, and creativity in artistic expression become overshadowed or engulfed by mainstream and popular culture. This phrase encapsulates the process by which the vast diversity and individuality of art gradually lose their distinctiveness and are assimilated into a homogenous mass.
When art is "swallowed up," it often occurs due to the increasing commercialization and commodification of artistic endeavors. As art becomes more market-driven, the emphasis shifts toward creating works that are palatable to the masses, resulting in a dilution of originality and a focus on repetitive, formulaic creations.
This phenomenon can also be seen as a consequence of mass media and mass production, as the rapid dissemination and accessibility of art through various channels can lead to the replication and imitation of popular art styles, overshadowing less recognized or unconventional artistic expressions.
Furthermore, "art swallowed up" can refer to the process in which once vibrant artistic communities are engulfed by the norms and expectations of mainstream culture, leading to the marginalization of unconventional and avant-garde art forms.
In essence, the concept of "art swallowed up" describes a loss of artistic diversity and a diminishing recognition of innovative, boundary-pushing creations as artistic expressions become increasingly homogenized and conform to dominant cultural norms.
