I have an old dear friend who blogs regularly and did a series last year that was prompted by the alphabet. I thought then that it would be fun to try. (Thank you Marallyn! ) And it just so happens that “A” is perfect for something that I’ve been wanting to talk about here.
Last semester my husband showed a video to his Biological Anthropology class that portrayed a chimp painting. The chimp seemed to be enjoying the process and he made some colorful pictures. They weren’t representative of anything in particular – just colorful blobs of paint.
One of the students raised a question: Was the work that the chimp produced “Art”? Why do you think it might be? If you don’t think so, why not?
This remains a hotly debated topic in today’s Anthropological, Philosophical and Art circles.
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Published by Guila Greer
I first learned how to sew as a child on my mom’s old treadle Singer (and wish that I knew where that machine is now!) and am now in love with my Berninas.
While going to school, raising a family and enjoying two satisfying careers I continued developing my skills with all kinds of needlecrafts and eventually discovered the magic of quilting.
Soon I began to stretch my imagination and creativity. This led to an interest in art quilting and I've been busy soaking up all kinds of techniques and adapting them to my creations. Now, I find myself on a journey to uncover, develop and to express the inner artist that I have so joyfully let loose.
I have learned so many ways to create beauty in fiber and am eager to share this knowledge. I am in love with color - saturated vibrant color.
I have also learned that there truly are no "quilt police" when it comes to one's personal expression of creativity; no right or wrong way. It just has to feel right and look right to you.
it is all a voyage of discovery. I just can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Several of my quilts, both traditional and art quilts have been displayed at Quilting in the Valley in Northridge, California, Lefferts Historic House and the Audubon Society in New York City.
My work "Going Around in All the Best Circles" was juried into the Pacific International Quilt Show.
I have shown in both local Fine Art Galleries and in Quilt Shows across the United States.
I am the author of the blog: The Mystical Allure of All Things Fiber since 2007.
In recent years I have uncovered a passion for writing - especially poetry - as well and have a lot of it on http://minervaspirit.com
See: http://guilagreerart.com
View all posts by Guila Greer
Guila's Art & Other Assorted Joys 
I agree there is no right or wrong answer. But what would prompt you to think of the work as “art”? “not art”?
If the chimp understood the concept of “art” would he have done something other than blobs?
If someone buys the chimp’s paintings, then has that person bought a painting or a primate’s use of materials placed in front of him/her? One can find arguments for and against this.
I don’t think there is a right or wrong answer other than an individuals choice to perceive the work as “art” or “not art”.