How to explain african art?

How do you explain contemporary art to someone who doesn't consider it to be "art"?

• I am pursuing a career working in museum education, particularly contemporary art. Long story short my dad has ALWAYS argued with me that pretty much everything from early modern to now should not be considered art and that it is all tasteless and pointless. The only "real art" in his opinion is that of Michelangelo and the "geniuses" of the Renaissance. How can I open him up to contemporary art? Are there any good articles I could have him read? I just want him to have a better understanding of the art I am working with so he thinks I'm not wasting my life v___v

• Answer:

  Instead of hoping to change his mind or open him up to something, perhaps you can ask him to think about art like you might think about music, and make this parallel: There are some people who think the only music that IS music is classical music, and while everyone is entitled to opinion, the idea that all other types of music don't count or are crap, discounts the huge range of music and musical styles that the world creates. The same can be said for art, and while those who appreciate the fine art skill of realism in painting as a type of "high art", have I believe, primarily been taught to appreciate those things by their art experience and poor and limited art education. While conceptual art and installation don't connect to all, I have seen for instance, some men appreciate the craft of the woodwork used in the boxes by Donald Judd at a museum I've worked for. So there can be fine art craft within contemporary art. However, I think the true answer is that by working in art education, you might not have the chance to change those that went before you, but you certainly can open the eyes of those whom you'll be able to reach and teach now. Good luck.