Legitimization

Definition

Legitimization refers to the process of making something acceptable, justifiable, or recognized as valid within a particular context. In the realm of art, this concept becomes crucial as artists and advocates work to establish certain forms of expression, like photography, as deserving of the same respect and status traditionally given to fine arts such as painting and sculpture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alfred Stieglitz was instrumental in legitimizing photography as an art form by promoting it through galleries and publications in the early 20th century.
2. Stieglitz founded '291', a gallery in New York City that showcased photography alongside traditional art, helping to elevate its status.
3. He believed that photography could express complex emotions and ideas just like painting, pushing against the notion that it was merely a mechanical process.
4. Stieglitz's involvement with the Photo-Secession movement aimed to separate fine art photography from commercial practices, reinforcing its legitimacy.
5. His published works and exhibitions helped create a dialogue around photography's place in the art world, encouraging both public appreciation and critical discourse.

Review Questions

• How did Alfred Stieglitz contribute to the legitimization of photography as an art form?
  • Alfred Stieglitz played a pivotal role in legitimizing photography by establishing it as a serious form of artistic expression through his gallery '291' and various exhibitions. He showcased photography alongside traditional artworks, arguing that it could convey profound emotions and concepts similar to those found in painting. His advocacy helped shift public perception and elevated photography's status within the broader art community.
• What impact did the Photo-Secession movement have on the acceptance of photography in the fine arts?
  • The Photo-Secession movement, led by Stieglitz, had a significant impact on the acceptance of photography as a legitimate form of fine art. It sought to differentiate artistic photography from commercial practices by emphasizing creativity and personal expression. This movement not only fostered greater appreciation for photographic work but also encouraged other photographers to pursue artistic ambitions, further solidifying photography's place within the fine arts.
• Evaluate how Stieglitz's approach to legitimization influenced future generations of photographers and artists.
  • Stieglitz's approach to legitimization set a precedent for future generations by establishing photography as an art form worthy of critical analysis and appreciation. His emphasis on personal vision and emotional depth encouraged upcoming artists to explore innovative techniques and themes without fear of being dismissed as mere technicians. This shift paved the way for movements such as modernism and helped shape contemporary photography's diverse landscape, affirming its integral role in the broader art world.

Related terms

Canon: A collection or list of works considered to be authoritative or exemplary within a particular field, often influencing which forms of art are legitimized.

Aestheticism: A movement that emphasized beauty and artistic value over moral or social themes, playing a role in the legitimization of various artistic expressions.

Cultural Capital: The non-financial social assets that promote social mobility, such as education and cultural knowledge, which can impact how certain art forms are legitimized.