Does art need to be shocking to get our attention today?

Depends. I think that in terms of being successful in the industry fast, you need an eye catching piece of work (such as clickbait in social media today) but a lot of art nowadays that isn't necessarily "shocking" is really beautiful and can give the same message in a more peaceful and mature way. Look at movies like "Hereditary" vs "Unfriended". Same genre but one is more elegant yet carries a very strong message. Though unfriended is entertaining to watch, it's not something you'll remember or that will long in your mind as hereditary does. Hope this helps!! :)

No, it was beethoven