The latest episode of PBS Arts’ weekly Web series, ‘Idea
Channel’ – a program that looks at modern creative enterprises and compares
them with artistic movements throughout history – focuses on nail art.
According to host Mike Rugnetta, nail art can actually be viewed as an argument
in the continuing battle between art and craft.
For as long as art has existed, it has lived alongside other
activities that are thought to be creative pursuits, but are considered more
functional and lacking in higher meaning. The ongoing argument between art and
craft comes down to what the beholder considers to be a “serious idea”, but
nail art can transcend that line – to some, the time and thought required of
some designs can, at times, go beyond basic craftmaking and push this creative
pursuit into the realm of artmaking.
