Walt Disney: 'I never called my work an 'art'. It's part of show business, the business of building entertainment.'

I never called my work an 'art'. It's part of show business, the business of building entertainment.

Walt Disney, the visionary behind the magical world of Disney, once remarked, "I never called my work an 'art'. It's part of show business, the business of building entertainment." At first glance, this quote seems straightforward, emphasizing Disney's belief that his creations were not high-brow art, but rather a form of commercial entertainment. However, upon further exploration, one can uncover a deeper philosophical concept embedded within this statement.The straightforward interpretation of this quote is that Walt Disney viewed his work primarily as a product of the show business industry. He saw himself as an entertainer, creating experiences and stories that captivated audiences and brought joy to people's lives. Disney's approach was driven by a clear understanding of the commercial aspect of his endeavors and the need to create entertainment that would resonate with a vast audience.However, beyond the surface level, this quote also raises questions about the nature and significance of art itself. By distancing his work from the realm of "art," Disney challenges traditional notions of what art entails. In doing so, he invites us to question the boundaries of creativity and how we perceive and evaluate artistic endeavors.Art, traditionally associated with high culture and avant-garde expressions of human imagination, often occupies a space separate from commercial enterprises. It is often seen as a medium through which artists express their deepest emotions, make political statements, or push the boundaries of societal norms. It is typically regarded as a reflection of the artist's inner self and a platform for self-expression.Disney's comment challenges this established perception of art by placing his work firmly within the realm of show business. This perspective prompts us to question whether art necessarily needs to conform to societal expectations or adhere to lofty ideals. Does art lose its artistic value when it becomes part of a commercial enterprise? Or can art exist outside these defining constructs, embracing a more inclusive and mainstream approach?In a broader sense, Disney's statement invites us to reevaluate our own understanding of artistic merit. It encourages us to appreciate creative endeavors, not solely based on their adherence to conventional artistic norms, but by considering their impact, ability to engage and entertain audiences, and their longevity.When we view Disney's creations through this lens, we realize that his work has undeniably left a profound impact on popular culture. The characters, stories, and even theme parks have become synonymous with childhood and continue to captivate generations. The imagination and creativity poured into creating these magical experiences are undeniable, regardless of whether they are classified as "art" or "entertainment."Additionally, Disney's approach challenges the notion that art must be elitist or exclusive. By bringing entertainment to the masses, Disney democratized creativity and made it accessible to people from all walks of life. This perspective resonates with the idea that art should be inclusive and widely appreciated, rather than confined to the narrow boundaries of the art world.In summary, Walt Disney's quote, "I never called my work an 'art'. It's part of show business, the business of building entertainment," carries a deeper philosophical significance than what meets the eye. It challenges our preconceived notions of art by blurring the lines between art and commercialism. Disney's approach reminds us to value creative endeavors not solely based on traditional artistic measures, but by considering their impact, ability to engage, and accessibility to a wide audience. Ultimately, it invites us to broaden our perspective and appreciate the diverse forms of creativity that exist in the world, irrespective of rigid definitions or categorizations.