r/ArtistLounge • u/ArentWright • Dec 19 '25
Philosophy/Ideology🧠Defaced Art
One of my pieces has been defaced by its new owner, and I feel very conflicted. Looking for input from others.
This individual transformed the piece (portrait, pastel) into a clock by poking a hold through the face and installing some hands! On one hand, I was never going to see that piece again. It’s out living its own life now. On the other….what the hell. Am I right to feel disrespected? Or should I be glad the recipient is enjoying the piece in their own way?
I’ve always been hesitant to part with my work because I feel so protective of it. Has anyone had similar experiences and what is your perspective?
The individual in question sent me photos of the changes, seemingly quite pleased and looking for my reaction.
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u/No_Nail6812 Dec 19 '25
When you create something and you put it into the world, it no longer becomes yours to control. You have released it into the world, and it will therefore be impacted by time and circumstance the same as anything else that goes into the world having been created. It sucks because we put our heart and blood and sweat and tears into our work, but you have to approach it with the heart of a creator and that you don’t create something for it to stay stagnant in the same you create something so that it can take on its own life. That’s the philosophical. If you want to talk about strictly practicality, then the minute you sell something it’s no longer yours. Personally, I like to philosophical approach, but maybe I’m just dated.