Arthur Danto

Definition

Arthur Danto was an American philosopher and art critic known for his influential theories regarding the nature of art, particularly his idea that the art world is shaped by a complex interplay of context, meaning, and interpretation. His work emphasizes that art is not just about visual aesthetics but also about the cultural and historical narratives that surround it.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Danto introduced the idea that the definition of art has changed over time, leading to the conclusion that what counts as art can be determined by the artworld's institutional frameworks.
2. He argued that art is not just about visual appeal; instead, it's deeply tied to philosophical and cultural discussions that give it meaning.
3. His essay 'The Artworld' published in 1964 highlights how art is defined by its contextual placement within society rather than solely its intrinsic properties.
4. Danto's theories suggest that imagination and creativity are crucial because they allow artists to engage with existing narratives and transform them into new artistic expressions.
5. He famously claimed that once something is presented as art, it becomes part of the discourse surrounding art and must be considered within its context.

Review Questions

• How did Arthur Danto's concept of the 'artworld' redefine our understanding of what constitutes art?
  • Danto's concept of the 'artworld' redefined art by asserting that it is not solely about visual aesthetics but also about context, meaning, and interpretation. He believed that what qualifies as art is determined by the community's engagement with it, including artists, critics, and institutions. This perspective shifts the focus from intrinsic qualities of artworks to the broader cultural narratives and dialogues in which they exist.
• In what ways does Danto's philosophy challenge traditional views on aesthetic experience?
  • Danto's philosophy challenges traditional views on aesthetic experience by suggesting that beauty is not the only criterion for evaluating art. He posited that aesthetic experience encompasses deeper engagement with artworks through cultural and historical contexts. This means that understanding an artwork involves considering its narrative significance and the ideas it communicates, thereby expanding the scope of aesthetic judgment beyond mere visual pleasure.
• Evaluate how Danto's theories about context influence our interpretation of both high and low art in contemporary discussions.
  • Danto's theories emphasize that context plays a crucial role in interpreting both high and low art, as they are situated within broader cultural dialogues. By asserting that all forms of expression can have artistic merit depending on how they are framed within the artworld, he blurs distinctions between traditionally valued high art and more accessible low art. This perspective encourages viewers to appreciate diverse forms of creativity while recognizing that their value lies not just in aesthetic appeal but in their ability to provoke thought and convey meaning through their contexts.

Related terms

Artworld: A term coined by Danto referring to the community of artists, critics, curators, and institutions that shape the understanding and value of art.

Aesthetic Experience: The sensory experience of engaging with art, which can evoke emotions, thoughts, and reflections beyond mere beauty.

Narrative Art: Artworks that convey a story or a sequence of events, emphasizing the role of context and interpretation in understanding their significance.