Clive Bell

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Recommended: Importance of art and aesthetics

Clive Bell argues that in order for an artwork to be considered art, it must evoke aesthetic emotion in the individual. If an individual or a group of individuals do in fact find aesthetic emotion in an artwork, Bell claims it is mainly because of significant form. He defines significant form as a significant relationship between lines, shapes, colors, and other sensory properties in an artwork that make it appealing to an audience. The common phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” is similar to Bell’s theory in the sense the individual determines whether an artwork is worthy of acclamation. At one point he argues that no one has called a butterfly not beautiful and that it is universally viewed as beautiful. Bell stresses that there …show more content…

Bell also only limits his argument to human-made objects and does not address naturally made objects. Another problem is that there is a strict contrast between aesthetic and other emotions. Critics argue if “aesthetic emotion” is even real. If Bell could have explained, in detail, what aesthetic emotion is and used studies or cases rather than his opinion of artworks, his theory would be more acceptable. However, I agree with Bell’s view that in order for an artwork to be considered art, it must evoke aesthetic emotion although I do not fully understand what aesthetic emotion is. On the other hand, author R.G. Collingwood clearly defines a distinction in …show more content…

I believe, the “Last Supper” causes expression of emotion by making the viewer connect with the painting on a deeper level. Because of this deeper connection, the painting has a broader moral purpose. If a person were to just see a splatter painting, there might not be any emotional expression towards the artwork. By simply looking at a splatter painting a person wouldn’t know the history, emotion, or purpose. However, with the “Last Supper” most people know of its religious significance and history, which in turn allows for a more emotional and conscious experience. By conscious experience, I mean that a viewer will not only look at the painting, but actually think investigate, understand, and remember it better. Ultimately, Collingwood would most likely agree that the “Last Supper” causes an emotional connection, which overall serves as a significant moral purpose for the

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