The definition of art has changed a great deal during this century. One hundred years ago, "art" was defined as mainly paintings and sculptures of beautiful images. But now, the definition has amplified to include other things such as toilets and dung. In fact, many contemporary artists define art according to its "shock value," or ability to surprise or offend people, and disregard beauty completely.

For example, if you go to a modern art museum in any major Western city, you will find some strange things. Instead of seeing many paintings and sculptures, you might find a piece of old lettuce, or a white canvas with no color or shapes at all. Marcel Duchamp became famous by featuring a toilet in an exhibition. Andy Warhol gained considerable fame by featuring stacks and stacks of soup cans in his art gallery.

People's opinions of works like these vary greatly. Most people either love or hate the art instantly. Others want to hear the artist's explanation of the work before forming their opinion.