Grotesque or Gorgeous? A question about the relationship between terror and art.

Terrorism is the systematic use of terror especially as a meas of coercion; or the forcing of people to behave in an involuntary manner.  Could the terrorist act of 9/11 be considered art?  If yes then why did Karlheinz Stockenhausen face so much ridicule after his comment that 9/11 was the "greatest work of art that is possible in the whole cosmos" and if it wasn't then what possessed him to say it was?

Although this quote can be interpreted different ways it is still fundamentally offensive upon the first read through. After thinking about it more critically it can be manipulated into certain artistic perspectives. Stockhausen was a composer and therefore viewed things in different ways then the average person does. To him everything is a work of art. It has a purpose, meaning, made people think, and caused a spectacle.

Although to many this quote was distasteful it was a change from the norm and allowed another view to enter the public mindset.  This quote was in a way a good thing for the public, since the media was just showing the same footage repeatedly;  Stockenhausen gave the public the ability to express their anger in a new way and allowed another outlet for the countries outrage.  

Previous to Stockenhausens' statement the media had a very tight hold on the tragedies publicity.  With this quote Stockenhausen single handily took down the media control.  To many this allowed fervent expression of patriotism which caused this quote to hit the core of America in such a personal way.  People took it as a personal attack and not as an individuals work of art.

Some would argue that this quote is a work of art others would say it is a monstrosity.  In  our group we feel that this quote represents both parties, it can be considered a work of art after careful debate but when first introduced to it, it is seen as irresponsible.