Art, Aesthetics, and Visual Arts Review

Flashcards covering definitions of art by major thinkers, historical eras of art, the essentials of art, and the forms and functions of visual arts.

Art (General Definition)

The communication of certain ideas and feelings by means of a sensuous medium.

Plato's Definition of Art

Art brings life in harmony with the beauty of the world.

John Dewey's Definition of Art

Art is an attitude of spirit and a state of mind.

Oscar Wilde's Definition of Art

Art is the most intense mode of individualism.

Nietzsche's Definition of Art

Art is the affirmation and blessing of existence.

Pre-Modern Era View of Art

A period (Ancient Greece & Rome) where art was viewed as skill, referred to by the terms techne and ars.

Modern Era (1700s-1900s) View of Art

A period characterized by the development of fine arts and aesthetics as a discipline.

Postmodern Era (mid-1900s-present) View of Art

A period marked by the rejection of traditional definitions of art and the expansion of the institutional approach.

Aesthetics

The study of beauty, which depends on harmony, balance, and emotion in art.

The Four Essentials of Art

1. Must be human-made; 2. Must be creative, not merely imitative; 3. Must benefit and satisfy human needs; 4. Expressed through a chosen medium.

Visual Arts

Forms of art that are primarily visual in nature, playing a significant role in culture, communication, and personal expression.

Fine Arts

A form of visual arts that includes painting, sculpture, and drawing.

Decorative Arts

A form of visual arts that includes ceramics, jewelry, and textile arts.

Applied Arts

A form of visual arts that includes graphic design, illustration, and fashion design.

Contemporary Arts

A form of visual arts that includes photography, digital art, and video art.

Aesthetic Function

A function of visual arts that provides beauty and visual appeal.

Expressive Function

A function of visual arts that communicates emotions and ideas.

Cultural Function

A function of visual arts that reflects and preserves cultural heritage.

Social Function

A function of visual arts that brings awareness to social issues.

Economic Function

A function of visual arts that contributes to industries like design and advertising.

Educational Function

A function of visual arts that enhances learning and critical thinking.