SA Festival - Philosophy: What is Art?

[mummycat]

A great discussion last night pondering what makes Art, what is beauty and aesthetics. In fact I was so fascinated, I'm returning to Thursday's event!

http://www.sydenhamartsfestival.com/1026.html

I must admit, I was a bit sceptical about this event when I saw it on the programme, I thought who would want to pay £10 or £8 to sit around and talk about Art in the allotment clubhouse? In fact it was really quite fun, with games and plenty of wine included in the price! A group of 14 of us - just the right amount for a relaxed talk and everybody could contribute.

Peter and Emma from the Philosophy Shop were inspiring, innovative and entertaining last night......
http://www.thephilosophyshop.co.uk/Home.html

[Tim Lund]

I'll back up mummycat on this - and a stroke of genius to hold it the day Andrew Gormley was questioning 'What is Art' on the empty plinth in Trafalgar Square. Those going along Thursday should watch out for this on Kent House Road:



which I might add took some not particularly philosophical discussion to get up. Hope it doesn't blow away!

[simon]

I am glad that it was a success as I was unable to attend (was at the Golden Lion event) but I interviewed Emma and Peter for Sydenham Community Radio on Sunday night and their enthusiasm was infectious.
So, for the benefit of those who weren't there Tim and Mummycat; what is art then?

[Tim Lund]

Can't help you I'm afraid. I had to leave at half time, having made a contribution about wheelbarrows. Can they be included in a definition of Art? Your mission, should you choose to accept it!

[mummycat]

Well, ask 14 different people and you'll get 14 different answers! Thursday's event will have different outcomes....

[leenewham]

It's a question that drives me nuts.

I'd say:

Art is design, fashion, architecture, painting, sculpture, film, dance, performance, theatre, graphics, grafitti, installations etc etc etc. Whether it is good or bad is in the eye of the beholder and the ego of the critic.