Richard Wellheim the work of art as object summarised
"The Work of Art as Object" by Richard Wollheim explores the relationship between the viewer and the artwork as a physical object. Wollheim argues that our experience of art is mediated through the physical aspects of the artwork, such as its colors, textures, and shapes.
According to Wollheim, our interpretation of a work of art is influenced by the way the artist has used these physical elements to convey meaning. The viewer's experience of the artwork is not solely based on intellectual or symbolic understanding, but rather on a direct sensory engagement with its material qualities.
Wollheim also highlights the importance of the historical and cultural context in which the artwork was created. He suggests that this context shapes our understanding of the artwork and influences how we interpret its physical aspects.
Furthermore, Wollheim emphasizes the role of the artist in creating the artwork as an object. He argues that the artist's choices and intentions are intimately linked to the physical characteristics of the artwork, and that the viewer must take these into account when engaging with the artwork.
Overall, Wollheim's essay presents a perspective on art that emphasizes the materiality of the artwork and its physical impact on the viewer's experience and interpretation.
Title: Richard Wellheim: The Work of Art as Object
Summary:
Richard Wellheim's book, "The Work of Art as Object," explores the concept of art as an object rather than a purely subjective experience. The author challenges traditional notions of art and delves into the profound significance of the objecthood of artworks.
In the book, Wellheim argues that the value and interpretation of art should be based on the physicality and materiality of the artwork itself, rather than solely on the artist's intentions or the viewer's subjective perception. He emphasizes the importance of considering an artwork as an object with its own unique properties, independent of the art world's contextualization or the observer's response.
Wellheim presents a wide range of examples from various art movements and periods to support his arguments. He explores the significance of the object's materiality, its physical dimensions, texture, and how these elements contribute to the overall aesthetic experience. He also examines the role of the art market and how the commodification and display of artworks affect their object status.
Throughout the book, Wellheim engages with the theories and philosophies of renowned scholars and thinkers in the field, offering a comprehensive analysis of art's objecthood. He challenges conventional interpretations of art as mere representations or symbols, encouraging readers to approach artworks as significant physical entities.
The Work of Art as Object provides readers with a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between art and objecthood. Wellheim's ideas challenge traditional art discourse and invite readers to consider the implications of perceiving and understanding art as objects with their own intrinsic value.