Single Idea 20336

[catalogued under 21. Aesthetics / B. Nature of Art / 6. Art as Institution]

Full Idea

'Style' would seem to be a concept that cannot be applied to a work solely on the basis of what is represented and yet it is also essential to a proper understanding or appreciation of a work.

Gist of Idea

Style can't be seen directly within a work, but appreciation needs a grasp of style

Source

Richard Wollheim (Art and Its Objects [1968], 32)

Book Reference

Wollheim,Richard: 'Art and Its Objects' [Penguin 1975], p.82


A Reaction

Sounds right. One long held musical note creates an expectation which depends on the presumed style of the piece of music. A single bar from a piece may well not exhibit its characteristic style.