Sample IELTS Writing-Creative artists' freedom

The following is a sample document for Cambridge IELTS 4, Test 3, Task 2.

While creative artists add a great deal to society through their work—whether plays, books, or art—it is also true that, occasionally, their creations are offensive to others and even infringe on others’ rights. When this occurs, authorities, whether governmental or private, may need to voice their opinions and even bar such artistic endeavors.

Usually, society benefits from allowing artists—including writers, playwrights, poets, film directors and producers, painters, sculptors, architects, and actors—the freedom to express their ideas and themselves. For example, director Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” with Jimmy Stewart focused on the trials and tribulations of the “common man.” In contrast to Capra’s relatively uncontroversial subject matter, Harold Pinter’s avant garde and edgy dramas involved conflict and complex issues and reflected his left-wing political activism. Even so, many consider Pinter’s works, such as “The Birthday Party,” The Caretaker,” and “The Homecoming,” among the most influential and imitated works of the twentieth century.

Sometimes, artists take their freedom too far. For example, Mel Gibson directed, produced, co-wrote, and self-funded the film “The Passion of the Christ.” Some people felt that this film was offensive, whether because of its violence or seeming anti-Semitism. While neither private nor public authorities stepped in to limit the distribution of this film, many individuals were offended by this production. In contrast to the hands-off approach to Gibson’s work, a Brooklyn Museum of Art exhibition that involved pornographic depictions of religious figures drew the strong opposition of New York City’s elected representatives. These officials contended that a publicly-funded cultural institution on municipal property should adhere to minimal standards of public decency.

In sum, while society usually benefits from the fruits of artistic freedom, sometimes artists push the boundaries beyond what is acceptable. When this occurs, private or public authorities may need to weigh in.