Falling Idols: How to Distinguish the Art from the Artist (and Their Sick Personal Lives)

In the age of social media and 24/7 news coverage, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to separate the art from the artist. In addition, as more and more celebrities are exposed for their sick personal lives and questionable behavior, it’s becoming harder for fans to continue to support them and their work.

One of the most recent examples of this phenomenon is R. Kelly, who just dropped a new album despite facing multiple allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct. For many fans, the idea of supporting Kelly’s music while also condemning his behavior is a difficult pill to swallow.

So how can fans distinguish the art from the artist and continue to support the work they love without enabling and supporting the sick personal lives of their idols?

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that not all artists are the same. While some may have sick personal lives and engage in questionable behavior, others may be wholesome and upstanding individuals. Therefore, it’s essential to take the time to research and learn about the artists you support so that you can make informed decisions about whether or not to continue to support them.

It’s also important to remember that art is different from the artist. Just because an artist may have a sick, personal life or engage in questionable behavior doesn’t mean that their art is automatically tainted. In many cases, the art can stand on its own and be appreciated for its merits, regardless of the personal life of the artist who created it.

Finally, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to support every artist or every piece of art. If you don’t feel comfortable supporting an artist because of their personal life or behavior, then it’s perfectly okay to choose not to do so. It’s essential to prioritize your values and beliefs and only support the art and the artists that align with them.

In conclusion, while it can be difficult to distinguish the art from the artist and their sick personal lives, it’s essential to take the time to research and learn about the artists you support. Remember that not all artists are the same and that art can stand independently regardless of the personal lives of the artists who create it. And finally, don’t be afraid to choose not to support an artist if their personal life or behavior doesn’t align with your values and beliefs.