Definition of Art: A Relative Perspective - Essay Example

Art can measure the potential and capabilities of mighty individuals. It is a weapon, a massive protest, and a huge platform for revelation and revolution. Exploring the meaning of art as it appeals to a connoisseur is difficult but not always beyond comprehension. The essay attempts to identify, examine and explore a few such intricate subtleties associated with the mighty term called “art”.

Definition of “Art”: A Relative Perspective

In determining various approaches regarding the definition of art, first, it is essential to judge the general view of the term. Generally, the term ‘art’ stands for a process or it can be denoted as a product that is intentionally arranged in an order with specific elements that will appeal to and affect human senses or emotions. Art encompasses a diversified and wide range of human activities about myriad creations and modes of expression. The canon of art includes many activities included in various spheres of artistry such as music, literature, film, sculpture, and paintings among others.

The definition of art has become considerably critical during the 20th century. Traditionally, art had been considered a medium to make money or an amusement device. Another traditional aspect of art is that the term exclusively refers to any “skill or mastery”. The concept of art transformed during the Romantic period. During this period the perspective towards art completely changed and the term was viewed as “a special faculty of the human mind to be classified with religion and science” (The Gombrich Archive, “Press statement on The Story of Art”)

The critical evaluation of art came into being during the Twentieth century. Scholar and artist, Richard Wollheim, envisaged three different approaches regarding the concept of art. Wollheim envisioned that art can be posited in three different paradigms namely ‘Realist Position’, ‘Objectivist Position’ and ‘Relativist Position’. These perspectives and distinguishing connotation undoubtedly helps in a better understanding of the term. The realist perspective of art says that the qualities which are aesthetic are independent of any kind of human view. It is an absolute vision of art. The objectivist position of art also views it as an absolute form but despite being an absolute value, it is dependent on the general human experience. The last one is the relativist position of art which is not at all viewed as an absolute value. The relativist position of art perceives that art is not dependent on human experiences and varies respectively from person to person (Wollheim, “Essays and Lectures”).

Conclusion

The term “art” cannot be captivated within a frame of language. It is a matter of perception. However, various scholars view it from their respective perspectives and enriched the understanding of the tern which always benefited the coming generations and shall continue enlightening people throughout the ages.