A universal art?

If we could figure out what it is that makes pop culture so popular, perhaps we could use its techniques to maximize the emotional effect of sincere works of art. Pop culture seems to always go hand in hand with business. It’s the desire for profit that drives it more than anything.

But despite of that, the public can still be touched by popular movies, books or music. Touched more even, than by works of art that were made solely out of kindness and a desire to bring beauty into this world.

We could look down on those simple souls who cry during a romantic comedy but feel nothing when reading Duras, hearing Wagner or seeing a Bernini bust. But could the themes and techniques that move the masses not be exploited for more elevated purposes? If we could make high art with the same impact as popular art, we would unite people with good taste and people with bad taste. And bring joy and beauty and sense and meaning to everyone.

A popular art that is produced in sincerity, and not for commercial gain, does not seem to exist today. But does that mean it is not possible?