Define Art as

Define Art as

Marcella Saunders November 01, 2008 PHIL 120-01 I define art as being within the eye of the beholder because each person has a different perception of what is aesthetically pleasing. Art provokes different emotions from each observer making the definition of art subjective. ` The truth is within the eye of the beholder,therefore whether A likes x and B does not like x, both observers are completely correct.How could they both be right? The earth is round, there is scientific logic to prove this factual statement, but to say this painting is ugly, that pertains only to matter of opinion of one person, rather than facts. Throughout many of David Hume’s essays he tries to prevail his philosophical views of art, in the sense that there is no true definition of art. Humes believes that it is quality and taste that determine the meaning of art. There are no objective standards that can make a list of conditions that will define every piece of artwork that applies to every one person. If art is aesthetically pleasing to one person it may not be to another person. Art must affect the “sentiments” which is different for each observer. Therefore, each person is able to define art in their own way.` ` Each piece of artwork provokes different emotions for each observer. Although, in our language we can say that we are happy, sad, upset or angry, that does not truly explain how we feel, it is only a word. Emotions are indescribable, or ineffable. Tolstoy defines art as the intent of the artist to communicate an emotion through an artist’s artwork. Tolstoy’s personal definition may help other observers find their definition in art. ` Also, art brings creativity to the table. What is creativity? Well, creativity leaves a hole wide open for everyone. Because it is open, it makes art subjective. ` For those who believe that art is indefinable that may be your definition of art because art is defined differently by each observer. Art has an objective definition but it is...

Similar Essays