Cover James Lie and Nick Buckley Wood go head-to-head in this month's great debate (Photo: Donato Sardella / Getty Images for Wood)
James Lie and Nick Buckley Wood go head-to-head in this month's great debate (Photo: Donato Sardella / Getty Images for Wood)
1 / 1
Nick Buckley Wood, director of private sales in Asia at Sotheby’s, goes head-to-head with art collector James Lie in this month’s great debate
Should art be censored if it is deemed offensive or controversial?
Nick Buckley Wood: YES
“Whether we like it or not, every aspect of our lives is either censored or self-censored. For example, laws protect our freedoms and aim to make society a safer and better place. We cannot and should not commit acts of violence even though we may feel like doing so sometimes. Similarly, we cannot and should not say offensive things to strangers who might not believe in the same things as us.
Art, along with every aspect of human society, is censored to various degrees everywhere in the world— and for a reason. Children in particular need to be protected from content that is unsuitable.
Censorship and human culture are also inextricably connected. Culture is based around tradition, religion, politics, art and science, which are all driven by what we should and shouldn’t say or believe. Common sense, good morals and improving society and the environment need to be prioritised in a world where more and more people are able to have an impact—both positive and negative. In a world where advertising-revenue-driven mass media is focused on negative news, I hope that artists can be empowered to create incredible things that raise humanity up and remind us that we live in an incredible and diverse world that needs to be protected.”
Read more: The weigh-in: Are New Year’s resolutions effective?
James Lie: NO
“It’s a definite no, as it defeats the purpose of art. Freedom of expression is essential to the preservation of a creative culture. Art is a reflection of an artist’s vision and perspective, and imposing restrictions infringes on the core principles of free expression and liberty.
For artists, the ability to convey their ideas without fear of censorship is essential for fostering a culture of innovation and dissent. Suppression of ideas and artistic expression leads to conformity, limiting diversity and narrowing the range to what is ‘acceptable’.
Art has always been a powerful medium for reflecting the diverse cultures that shape our world, be it generating unfamiliar ideas, envisioning new possibilities, or challenging societal norms. Censorship not only suppresses the voices of artists but also deprives society of valuable perspectives and critical commentary. We cannot thrive in a climate of fear.”
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
