Artistic Classism and "Camp" as Critical Kitsch

Abstract

 In the philosophy of art and art criticism, there is disagreement over whether works deemed “kitsch” can be
considered art. I discuss the perspectives of two thinkers, Clement Greenberg and Robert Solomon, to elucidate the
kitsch debate as ultimately an issue of classism. Using AP Nguyễn’s exhibition Lovecore as a case study, I consider how the artist utilizes the concept of “camp” to assert the value of kitsch and comment on the classism of art criticism that denigrates kitsch art. Camp as critical kitsch celebrates artworks for the same kitschy qualities that many critics cite as negating their ability to be called art at all.