Case Study for Basic Theories

as Frameworks in Ethics
Art and Offense
Art and Offense

The concept of art and offense often revolves around

the tension between creative expression and
respecting the sensitivities and values of others.

While art is typically seen as a form of expression

that can challenge norms and provoke thought, it
can sometimes cross boundaries and offend certain
individuals or groups.
Art and Offense

The ethical dilemma lies in finding a balance

between artistic freedom and the potential harm
caused by offensive or insensitive content. It involves
considering questions of cultural sensitivity, respect
for diversity, and the responsibility of artists and
society as a whole.
Case in Art and Offense
Art and Offense
In 2011, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) mounted an exhibit
that included Mideo Cruz's "Politeismo," an installation comprised of an
amalgam of many images including a statue of Jesus wearing Mickey
Mouse ears, a crucifix adorned with a bright red phallus, and a picture of
the face of Jesus with a wooden ashtray with penis tacked on the middle.
Apparently conceived as a piece to promote critical thought and perhaps
debate on idolatry, it was seen by many in this predominantly Catholic
country to be a deliberate insult to their faith. Given the public outcry and
the strong denouncement from the various religious and secular leaders,
the exhibit was abruptly closed. In addition to being threatened and
having his work vandalized, Cruz was charged with obscenity. However, he
(as well as the administrators of the CCP) was acquitted of these charges
by the courts in 2013.
Art and Offense
A case such as this allows us to consider questions on aesthetics such as "Is
it the point of the work to be appealing or to be thought provoking?" It
also allows us to consider political questions, such as "Who gets to decide
which artists and which projects may or may not receive funding from the
state?" Our concern here is ethical, and perhaps we can recognize that a
number of highly significant ethical questions can be raised: Does the artist
have an ethical obligation to the sensibilities of his audience? Or does he
have a moral obligation only to be faithful to his vision and his art? What
constitutes offense, and at what point is offense severe enough as to
require control or to justify retribution? Does a religious majority have a
monopoly on understanding of what is right or wrong? Does an artist have
an absolute freedom of expression, or are there proper restrictions to this
right?
Art and Offense

Is this is an ethical issue?Why?

Does the question of the rightness or wrongness of this depend on

which religion you belong to?
Art and Offense
 “The Holy Virgin Mary“
by Chris Ofili

Other example of Art and Offense

Reference!
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Holy-Virgin-Mary

https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2273/
Thank You!