What Art Is by Arthur C. Danto - Test
- 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) Surrealism
C) Impressionism
D) Pop Art
- 2. What famous example does Danto use to illustrate indiscernible counterparts?
A) Campbell's Soup Cans
B) Brillo Boxes
C) Mona Lisa
D) Fountain
- 3. For Danto, what must art have to be considered art?
A) Originality and novelty
B) Beauty and harmony
C) Aboutness and embodiment
D) Skill and craftsmanship
- 4. Danto argues that art requires what kind of atmosphere?
A) Emotion
B) Mystery
C) Theory
D) Beauty
- 5. What does Danto mean by 'the end of art'?
A) End of art museums
B) End of art's historical narrative
C) Death of artistic creation
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) Kant
C) Hegel
D) Plato
- 8. Danto's theory allows for what kind of objects to be art?
A) Any object in right context
B) Only beautiful objects
C) Only handmade objects
D) Only traditional media
- 9. What philosophical tradition does Danto work within?
A) Postmodernism
B) Continental philosophy
C) Eastern philosophy
D) Analytic philosophy
- 10. What does Danto mean by 'embodiment'?
A) Material quality
B) Meaning in physical form
C) Artist's physical presence
D) Physical skill
- 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) Neither can be art
B) One can be art, one not
C) Only the first is art
D) Both must be art
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