American novelist and essayist Steve Erickson has been open about the connection between art and society. One of his noteworthy findings highlights how conversations about artistic accountability can make artists feel uneasy.

According to Erickson, discussions about artists' responsibilities to follow particular social standards or expectations frequently hint at a hidden desire for authority over artistic expression. According to this theory, if art is thought to require regulation, it indicates that there is a desire to restrict or censor what can be freely expressed.

Consider a painter attempting to create a colorful and varied mural on a community center's walls to demonstrate this point. People may start proposing particular themes or subject matter as they assemble to talk about the "responsibilities" of such public artwork. The artist starts to feel more and more limited as a result of these discussions, as though an invisible hand is directing their brush.

Artists may grow cautious about deviating from accepted norms as a result of this type of conversation. Even before others attempt to place limitations on them, they may begin to self-censor because they are worried about whether their work will be praised or criticized.

"A healthy environment for creativity allows artists to explore and express ideas without fear of undue interference," Erickson said, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic freedom and societal values.