No, I don’t. But before arguing, let’s settle on the meaning of ‘democratising art’ – to democratise something consists in easing its availability, in reaching a larger audience, in increasing its exposure. With the multiplication of museums, of galleries, with the advent of street art and with the expansion of the online sphere, why would it be difficult to find artworks nowadays? Most of you are actually living in a democracy of art, where everyone has an equal right and equal opportunity to access it. You might be your own limitation here, not the place, not the supply.

I'm playing devil's advocate a bit by brushing off the reality of the art world. One that too often keeps people at bay by its arrogance, its elitism and where the only group welcome is existing art amateurs - go figure out yourself how to join this club. My rebuke concerns more the marketing technique of stating 'art for the people' while still replicating the same old trope and exhibition setting. Expanding the offer doesn't necessarily generate an increased interest, as this strategy often underestimates the importance of the way of looking.

It raises an underlying question as well: is it possible to go through the process of democratisation without losing the substance? Yes, but it's tricky, as the flood of information - even a qualitative one - prevents you to engage and the over-stimulation impacts your ability to focus. You could spend the day at The British Museum and not remember anything, but select one room for an hour and you will feel immediate benefits (overall boost to your health for instance).

Having a limited number of artworks displayed enhances the power we attribute them, improves our attention span and helps us focus and channel our energy. Under two conditions: the offer provides a genuine diversity and ample time is given to the visitor to reflect on it. These features thwart the implementation of an art autocracy.

On your way here, you probably went through multiple galleries that introduced you to endless artworks. Most praise themselves to be at the forefront of the battle regarding the democratisation of art. They are not our enemies. We need them. Yet without questioning the need for fresh original artworks or the pivotal role of artists in your society, being spammed isn't helping the cause.

I want you, we want you, to experience art differently. I will certainly evoke this subject again as this proves fundamental in the comprehension of The Blue Neon. Up to now, we have approached the non-democratisation in terms of artworks’ availability, more need to be explored regarding the core status of art and the relation with the observer: should one elevate the other or does only the outcome of their encounter matters? And how can we avoid art to become a consumer goods?

My focus is gone. Remember to say no to the democratisation of art.

Yours Sincerely,

BLUE