Mmmm, not sure about this one (when am I ever?) If we do use 'lifestyle', 'political beliefs' etc of the artist to influence our judgement of the piece of work that is created, then can we ever know enough to make an informed opinion? Perhaps we can never know enough about the artist anyway.

Some people who portray an image of purity, simplicity or whatever, might be just the opposite (but never get 'found out'). Somebody portrayed as being 'drug user' 'paedophile' or whatever could be falsely accused. Who am I to know?

But then again, is it possible to view the piece of work in isolation, away from our own prejudices etc.

Ed. you got me stumped.

Catrin