SOCIETAL IDEAL IN THE FORM OF ARTISTIC CULTURE: CANON, NORM AS TOOLS OF CENSORSHIP

Understanding the social ideal and the peculiarities of its embodiment in artistic activity, the implementation of social control over sensuality through the artistic canon and norms has long been a controversial issue that affects both artistic creativity and social norms. This article examines how these constructions function as so-called "tools" of censorship in artistic culture and in the field of education. The purpose of the research is to determine the role of normativity and ethics in art, to consider the canon and aesthetic norm as established traditions, to analyze censorship as an institutional control over sensual activity, and also to find out the use of aesthetic means in gender education. The results of the study indicate the dual role of canon and norms: on the one hand, they serve as the basis of traditions and cultural identity, defining artistic life and preserving social values ​​over time. On the other hand, they function as censorship mechanisms, ensuring conformity and limiting the diversity of artistic expression. Such tensions are further exacerbated by the institutional mechanisms that ensure control over artistic practices, often mirroring dominant ideologies and power structures. By exploring a variety of historical facts and examples, we highlight how canonization and normativity can stifle diversity and crowd out alternative thought within artistic communities. The study examines the consequences of such censorship on the evolution of cultural discourse and the persistence of social inequality. The obtained conclusions indicate the need for a detailed study of the canon and norms in artistic environments, recognition of their role not only as cultural artifacts but also as tools of control. Thanks to a critical approach to the concepts justifying the need for canons and norms in artistic activity, the study advocates the idea of greater inclusiveness and openness of the artistic process, which questions established hierarchies and contributes to the creation of a pluralistic cultural environment. Consequently, this study contributes to ongoing debates surrounding artistic freedom and censorship, prompting researchers and practitioners to rethink the influence of canon and normativity on artistic innovation and societal ideals.