Final answer:
In Western societies, artists are often seen as imaginative and hold a place of high regard, especially in the realms of painting and sculpture. However, art historians are broadening the narrative to include a wider array of art forms and artists, thereby lessening the focus on traditional Eurocentric views.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Western societies, artists have reputations for being imaginative creators, often seen as the pinnacle of creative professions. Historically, painting and sculpture have been privileged over other art forms due to their association with individual imagination and distance from manual labor. This stems from a hierarchy of genres that favored these forms of art, reflecting attitudes that equate the artist's role with high intellectual and cultural status.
Throughout the 20th century, the narrative has expanded to include a broader range of art forms and a more diverse group of artists. This includes acknowledging the contributions of women and artists of color who had previously been marginalized. Art historians have worked to diminish traditional Eurocentric views and celebrate global artistic production, irrespective of medium or the artist's identity. As a result, while the reputation of artists in Western societies has been dominated by painting and sculpture, there is a growing appreciation for art regardless of genre or origin.