Readers remain skeptical about drug-induced art

The following comments reflect the views of DW-WORLD.DE readers. Not all reader comments have been published. DW-WORLD.DE reserves the right to edit for length and appropriateness of content.

Artists haven't abandoned search for psychedelic nirvana of inspiration

Do you think drugs can enhance artistic creativity?

I know of no artwork made under drug influence that really is impressive and tells a good idea. Art is about ideas, drugs kill the ability to create them. It's funny how many great musicians failed more and more under the influence of drugs. And if someone needs them to be creative or do art, he or she is maybe in the wrong profession. The creativity should be naturally in you. -- Julius

I don't know, but I've seen a number of movies and works of art where narcotics were clearly involved in their creation. -- Dairl

Yes, it is a medical fact that certain chemicals and enzymes make people more creative and active, no need to go far, look at caffeine as one. People forget human beings are not only a soul but also a biological machine, a machine that is weak and sensitive to every element it interacts with, even if it is a substance or just a thought, weather conditions or social conditions, we react to everything around us and everything that is on the planet has impact on us in one way or another. -- Monie

I have seen people paint under the influence of hashish and yes it definitely did enhance their creativity, the mind is free and hallucinating so it speaks for itself. Also look at movies, some were definitely written while under the influence. -- Johanna

For some people, yes. There is no given answer to the question. People are different, and react differently when they ingest anything ... including food. -- Tracey

To "open" a gate is not to reveal art. If you cannot find deep in your soul and mind the way to art, drugs are only a substitute not a tool that can enhance something. -- Adrian

No, I have had artist friends try to get greater creativity from an altered state of mind, they get all excited and show their work, its just looks like art created by someone on drugs, not better quality. -- Jesse

Everyone is different, but it definitely does not work for me ... I need clarity not cloudy. As I say everyone is different, for some it may work. I find when creating music high mostly I just jam endlessly or noodle if you will. Every day the same song is different, so one day it may sound great while the next disconnected and rambling. For the listener it's a 50/50 chance for a good show or recording. -- Randall

Depends on how creative the person is initially and how apt they are. Jimi Hendrix was great guitar player because he practiced for many years and worked with other groups before he ever got famous. -- Erik

I have no idea! I do, however, know that substances, including alcohol, have taken the lives of many of our most talented creative minds! -- David

Compiled by Stuart Tiffen
Editor: Chuck Penfold