Why Do People Pretend to Understand Art They Don’t?
A reader-led series where we confront everyday curiosities and cultural habits—together.
We’ve all seen it. The silent nod. The furrowed brow. The murmured “hmm” in front of a blank canvas or a twisted pile of metal. Maybe we’ve even done it ourselves.
But why do people pretend to understand art—even when they don’t?
Is it snobbery, insecurity, or respect?
In a world where modern and conceptual art resist easy explanation, why do we perform understanding instead of admitting confusion? Are we afraid of being seen as “uncultured”? Or is the pressure to get it rooted in how galleries still carry the weight of elitism?
This isn’t just about visual art. It happens in literature, film, music—any space where interpretation feels like a test.
So what’s really going on when someone stares at a squiggle and mutters, “Powerful”?
Is it about fitting in, or avoiding the discomfort of saying: I don’t get it, but I’m curious?
We’re asking—and we want your take.
Email us at news@artwalkway.com.
Best replies run next Monday.
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