What Art Is by Arthur C. Danto
- 1. In 'What Art Is,' philosopher Arthur C. Danto explores the nature and definition of art, challenging traditional views and shedding light on the complexities of artistic expression. Danto argues that art is not merely defined by its physical properties or aesthetic qualities but rather by the context and intentions surrounding it. He posits that the art world is constructed through a series of social and cultural narratives that allow certain objects to be recognized as art while others are not. Danto introduces the concept of the 'artworld,' referring to the network of artists, critics, curators, and institutions that create a framework for interpreting and valuing artistic works. He famously illustrates his theory through the example of Andy Warhol's Brillo Boxes, which are indistinguishable from actual supermarket products yet are deemed art because they are presented and contextualized as such. Through this lens, Danto invites readers to reconsider their preconceived notions of art, emphasizing that the meaning of art extends beyond mere aesthetics to encompass historical, philosophical, and cultural dimensions. His work ultimately raises profound questions about the essence of creativity and the role of interpretation in experiencing art.
Danto's theory is particularly concerned with which art movement?
A) Renaissance
B) Impressionism
C) Pop Art
D) Surrealism
- 2. What famous example does Danto use to illustrate indiscernible counterparts?
A) Fountain
B) Brillo Boxes
C) Campbell's Soup Cans
D) Mona Lisa
- 3. For Danto, what must art have to be considered art?
A) Beauty and harmony
B) Originality and novelty
C) Aboutness and embodiment
D) Skill and craftsmanship
- 4. Danto argues that art requires what kind of atmosphere?
A) Beauty
B) Mystery
C) Emotion
D) Theory
- 5. What does Danto mean by 'the end of art'?
A) End of art museums
B) Death of artistic creation
C) End of art's historical narrative
D) Decline in art quality
- 6. According to Danto, what distinguishes art from mere real things?
A) Physical appearance
B) Interpretation and meaning
C) Market value
D) Public reception
- 7. Danto's philosophy was influenced by which thinker?
A) Nietzsche
B) Plato
C) Hegel
D) Kant
- 8. Danto's theory allows for what kind of objects to be art?
A) Only traditional media
B) Any object in right context
C) Only handmade objects
D) Only beautiful objects
- 9. What philosophical tradition does Danto work within?
A) Continental philosophy
B) Postmodernism
C) Eastern philosophy
D) Analytic philosophy
- 10. What does Danto mean by 'embodiment'?
A) Physical skill
B) Material quality
C) Artist's physical presence
D) Meaning in physical form
- 11. Danto argues that art requires what kind of knowledge?
A) Aesthetic taste
B) Art historical
C) Moral judgment
D) Technical skill
- 12. What does Danto say about visually identical objects?
A) Both must be art
B) Neither can be art
C) Only the first is art
D) One can be art, one not
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