I agree with Tartan. I think the art quilts are beautiful. Do I quilt my quilts like that? NO, I don't have the talent. but I do agree that a lot of quilting does make the quilts stiff and rigid.
I do not agree that it breaks down the fabric. I think all that thread makes it stronger.
Each to his own. If you like lots of quilting do it. If you don't, don't.
these are our creations and we can do what ever we want . We don't all have to agree on everything.