When is Art Not Art?

We experience, observe, decide, discern

as we grow, evolve and learn.

When ‘Art’ is Abuse, Sadistic, Masochistic,

without Conscience, Caring, Compassion,

it is clearly Not Art to me I see,

only abilities and powers misused,

sure signs of Hearts and Minds confused-

Life’s respect and dignity denied, refused.

What does this ‘Not Art’ plainly state

beyond personal preference and taste,

beyond collective judgments, agreements

of religious and social morality

swiftly or slowly changing, or not,

through intelligent questions and revelations

about Humanity, Nature, Evolution, Creation…

It states our ‘World Views’, perceptions of God,

of Life Itself, of who we are and choose to be

as we co-create our World, our ‘Destiny’.

‘Not Art’ is Not Art’s ‘Shadow’ of Duality

or ‘Negative Space’ of Formless Grace.

This ‘Not Art’ is a degradation of mentality,

a sickness of Heart and Mind and Soul-

though some may choose to call it ‘Art’.

I choose the Beauty and Joy of Life in Art,

finding meaning, purpose, peace, delight

in its power both magical and divine.

I, truly, do love Art…

August 14, 2025

(This poem pairs with my previous poem- Art and Artists. )

Shelley A. Wilson

Haileybury, Ontario