Everyone, from the creator to the audience, determines the meaning for themselves.
The subjective nature of art is the only truth about art.
The human tendency to copy others behavior also translates into this; when people lack strong feelings about a piece of art, they are more likely to defer to other’s interpretation. This doesn’t mean they share the interpretation, rather that being agreeable was more important to them in the interaction than sharing an honest opinion.
It is not an either / or question.
Everyone, from the creator to the audience, determines the meaning for themselves.
The subjective nature of art is the only truth about art.
The human tendency to copy others behavior also translates into this; when people lack strong feelings about a piece of art, they are more likely to defer to other’s interpretation. This doesn’t mean they share the interpretation, rather that being agreeable was more important to them in the interaction than sharing an honest opinion.