Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Role of Art in Expressing Social and Political Views – Sample Essays and Analysis

The topic of art’s role in expressing social and political views is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current socio-political climate, this subject is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that governments should support artists financially. Others believe that artists should support themselves. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question directly addresses the role of art in society and its relationship with government support, making it an excellent example to explore the broader theme of art’s role in expressing social and political views.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should financially support artists
2. Discuss the opposing view that artists should be self-supporting
3. Provide their own opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before presenting a clear personal stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Art has long been a powerful medium for expressing social and political views, and the question of whether governments should financially support artists or if artists should be self-reliant is a topic of ongoing debate. In my opinion, while government support for the arts is valuable, it should be balanced with opportunities for artists to maintain their independence.

Those who advocate for government support argue that art plays a crucial role in society by reflecting cultural values, challenging norms, and fostering critical thinking. Financial assistance from the government can enable artists to create works that might not be commercially viable but are socially or culturally significant. This support can take various forms, such as grants, subsidies, or public art commissions. Moreover, government funding can help preserve traditional art forms and support emerging artists who might otherwise struggle to establish themselves in a competitive market.

On the other hand, proponents of artist self-sufficiency contend that reliance on government funding may compromise artistic integrity and freedom of expression. They argue that artists who are financially independent are more likely to create genuine, unrestrained works that truly reflect their views on social and political issues. Furthermore, self-supporting artists may be more motivated to innovate and connect with their audience, as their livelihood depends directly on public reception of their work.

In my view, a balanced approach that combines elements of both arguments is most beneficial. Governments should provide some level of support to ensure the arts remain accessible and diverse, particularly for art forms or projects that have significant cultural value but limited commercial appeal. However, this support should be structured in a way that does not exert undue influence over artistic content or expression. Additionally, policies that encourage private patronage and create opportunities for artists to achieve financial independence should be implemented.

In conclusion, while government support for the arts is important, it should be complemented by measures that empower artists to be self-sufficient. This balanced approach can foster a vibrant artistic community capable of freely expressing diverse social and political views, ultimately enriching society as a whole.

(Word count: 329)

Art expressing social and political views

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether governments should give money to artists or if artists should support themselves is a difficult one. There are good reasons for both sides of this argument.

Some people think governments should help artists with money. They say that art is important for society and culture. If the government gives money, artists can make art that might not make money but is still important. This could be things like paintings about social problems or music that talks about political ideas. Also, government money can help keep traditional art alive and help new artists who are just starting.

However, other people believe artists should support themselves. They think that if artists get money from the government, they might not be free to say what they really think. Artists who make their own money can create art that truly shows their ideas about society and politics without worrying about what the government thinks. Also, when artists have to make their own money, they might try harder to make art that people like and want to buy.

I think both sides have good points. It’s good for the government to help some artists, especially for art that is important for culture but doesn’t make much money. But it’s also important for artists to be able to make their own money and be independent. Maybe the best way is for the government to give some help, but not too much, so artists can still be free to express their ideas.

In conclusion, I believe a mix of government support and artist independence is the best solution. This way, we can have different kinds of art that express many views about society and politics, which is good for everyone.

(Word count: 292)

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Some people think the government should give money to artists, but others say artists should make their own money. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

First, some people say the government should help artists with money. They think art is important for society. If the government gives money, artists can make art about important things like social problems. This is good because it helps people think about these problems. Also, government money can help traditional art and new artists who don’t have much money.

But other people think artists should make their own money. They say that if artists get money from the government, they might not be free to make the art they want. Artists who make their own money can make any kind of art they want without worrying about what the government thinks. This means they can really show their ideas about society and politics in their art.

I think both ideas have good points. It’s good for the government to help some artists, but artists should also try to make their own money. Maybe the government can give some money, but not too much, so artists can still be free.

In conclusion, I think a mix of government help and artists making their own money is best. This way, we can have different kinds of art that show many ideas about society and politics.

(Word count: 223)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures used accurately with only rare minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, but there may be some lack of overall progression.
• Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, though there may be some inaccuracy in word choice.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but may lack overall progression.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with some attempt at complex sentences, though errors are frequent.

Comparing IELTS essay band scores

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Medium (noun) /ˈmiːdiəm/ – a means by which something is communicated or expressed
2. Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪəbəl/ – capable of working successfully; feasible
3. Integrity (noun) /ɪnˈteɡrəti/ – the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
4. Patronage (noun) /ˈpætrənɪdʒ/ – the support given by a patron, especially financial support
5. Exert (verb) /ɪɡˈzɜːt/ – apply or bring to bear (a force, influence, or quality)
6. Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage or promote the development of (something, typically something regarded as good)
7. Vibrant (adjective) /ˈvaɪbrənt/ – full of energy and enthusiasm
8. Empow**er** (verb) /ɪmˈpaʊə(r)/ – give (someone) the authority or power to do something

Conclusion

The role of art in expressing social and political views is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this type of question, it’s crucial to understand the various perspectives on government support for the arts and the importance of artistic independence. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:

• The impact of political art on public opinion
• The role of artists in social movements
• The balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.

The influence of political activism on legislative change is another related topic that you might find interesting to explore. Additionally, considering how digital platforms influence public opinion can provide valuable insights into modern forms of artistic and political expression.