The following text is from an art theory article.
Conceptual art prioritizes ideas over traditional aesthetic qualities. Some conceptual works exist only as written instructions for actions never meant to be performed. Others consist of documentation of temporary installations. This approach challenged the art market's emphasis on unique, permanent objects, questioning fundamental assumptions about what art is and how it functions.
What is the main purpose of the text?
To argue that conceptual art is superior to traditional forms
To describe conceptual art's characteristics and challenges to convention
To provide instructions for creating conceptual artworks
To compare prices of conceptual and traditional art
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text describes conceptual art's characteristics (ideas, instructions, documentation) and its challenge to conventions (market assumptions).
- Evidence: The text describes characteristics: "prioritizes ideas," "written instructions," "documentation." It notes the challenge: "challenged the art market's emphasis on unique, permanent objects."
- Reasoning: The passage defines an art movement and explains how it disrupted established norms.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to describe characteristics and challenges.
💡 Strategy: Summarize: The Art (Ideas/Instructions) + The Impact (Challenged the market).
Choice A is incorrect because superiority isn't claimed. Choice C is incorrect because creation instructions aren't given. Choice D is incorrect because prices aren't compared.