Foundations of Art Study: Aesthetics, Theory, and History

Fundamental Concepts of Art Study

Aesthetic Attitude

• Involves the total person (sensible and intelligible aspects).
• The artist possesses artistic sensibilities, seeing more than others.
• Senses most suitable for art creation are the higher senses: sight and hearing, often associated with the spiritual. However, other senses should not be underestimated (e.g., architecture relies on touch).
• The characteristic of aesthetic experience is wonder.
• The attitude required for aesthetic experience is disinterestedness; the artwork is an end in itself. This resignation is not indifference. (Example: Contemplating an object's appearance rather than being interested in its real-world utility.)

Disciplines of Art Study

The study of art is generally divided into three main scientific disciplines:

• What is art? = Aesthetics
• How is it done? = Theory of Art
• What has been done? = History of Art

Aesthetics: Defining Beauty

Aesthetics originated in and remains a part of philosophy. It questions the existence of aesthetic phenomena, focusing on a fundamental aspect of being—Beauty—which is distinct from Truth (studied by logic) and Goodness (studied by ethics). Aesthetics encompasses both natural beauty and artificial (artistic) beauty.

Art Theory: Methodology and Creation

Art Theory addresses the question of how art is created. The differences in the sensible means of expression distinguish various art forms from one another. Theory helps establish the specificity of each art form.

Theories of art are sometimes referred to as Poetics (e.g., Aristotle's Poetics). There are often specific theories developed for individual art forms, genres, or historical periods.

Generally, the science of art forms follows artistic creation, but on special occasions, it can precede or be simultaneous with it. This occurs when artists reflect on their own creative process (e.g., the avant-garde movements of the 20th century). This reflection often happens during moments of stylistic break or when new modes of creation are necessary.

A specific aspect of the transmission of the Arts is the method for learning (pedagogy) passed from teacher to pupil.

History of Art: Context and Style

History of Art involves the structured knowledge of art works from all times and places. It requires the application of the historical method.

Art historians like Gombrich develop the concept of style, defining the stylistic traits of a period or an author (including knowledge of date, location, and context).

Art Criticism

Art Criticism is not a science but involves value judgments made about a particular work. The formation of a critic requires:

• Thorough knowledge of the History of Art.
• Understanding of Aesthetics.
• Sensitivity training.

Criticism will always contain a subjective component.

Historical Context of Aesthetics

The scientific configuration of Aesthetics was established in 1750 by Baumgarten. Prior to 1750, aesthetic thoughts were scattered. The period following 1750 was dominated by major aesthetic systems. The 20th century saw a diversification of positions within the field.