Does art make a difference?
Nobody would make or listen to music if it made no difference to them. Architecture and visual design, drama, film and literature are similarly important.
Should politics and art mix?
They always do. All works of art show the politics of their time by approving them, reacting against them or trying to evade them. The most escapist fantasies usually caricature the societies they try to ignore.
Does money corrupt an artist?
Yes, when rich elites use it to foster inferior art - propaganda and flattery for themselves and their regimes, and the production of objects that can be used for non-taxable banking.
Is your work for the many or for the few?
My work is for everyone able to enjoy it. I would like these to be very many.
Which artist do you most admire?
William Blake.
Which artist do you least admire?
I know none well enough to name.
What product, if any, would you advertise?
Libertyequalityfraternity.
If you weren't an artist, what would you be?
I don't know.
If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
Excuse me for rejecting this invitation to fantasise. This is also my answer to questions 10, 11, 12 and 13.
What are the rules that you live by?
I try to work well and not hurt people.
What would you like your legacy to be?
My work.
Do you love your country?
There is much in it that I do not love, but I don't intend to leave it.
Are we all doomed?
We are all bound to die, but not all will do so miserably.
Alasdair Gray is participating in “Poor. Old. Tired. Horse.", an exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London inspired by concrete poetry. Runs until 23 August. For more information visit: www.ica.org.uk/poth
