The Boundaries and Distinctions of Art

Professor Introduction

Y. L | Ph.D. in Philosophy

Home Institute：University of Essex

Project Description

Artworks displayed in museums always seem to be covered with the charm of classics. But since Duchamp's urinal, the boundary between art and daily life has been broken, but this also implies the possibility of constructing another boundary. David Swartz mentioned in the opening of "Culture and Power": "Art, science, religion and even language itself are a kind of symbolic symbol system. They not only shape our understanding of reality and form the basis of our communication but also help to establish and maintain the social hierarchy." One direction of contemporary art theory is to reveal the phenomenon that cultural domination is concealed in social practice and to show how culture can subtly form social divisions. This topic will construct an art field that is exposed to the power field and completely different from the pure and sacred art field in the previous cognitive field from different perspectives such as the generation of the art field, the aesthetic habits and interests of different classes. Pure and self-disciplined art is shaking, and this ruthless revelation is intended to make us vigilant against the mysterious art.

Project Keywords

Project Outline

Part 1:  Introduction to Art and Boundaries
• Overview of the historical context of art and its perceived boundaries.
• Introduction to key concepts: art, everyday life, boundaries, distinctions.
• Discussion on the impact of Marcel Duchamp's Fountain on the art world.

Part 2: Theoretical Framework
• Examination of David Swartz's Culture and Power and its relevance to art.
• Exploration of Pierre Bourdieu's theory of art distinction.
• Discussion on the symbolic systems and their role in shaping reality and social hierarchies.

Part 3: The Creation of Art Fields
• Analysis of how art fields are generated and maintained.
• Examination of the roles of institutions, critics, and audiences in the art field.
• Discussion on the interplay between autonomy and power in the art world.

Part 4: Aesthetic Habits and Class Distinctions
• Exploration of the aesthetic preferences and tastes of different social classes.
• Analysis of how these tastes contribute to social distinctions and hierarchies.
• Discussion on the role of education and cultural capital in shaping aesthetic habits.

Part 5: Art and Power Dynamics
• Examination of the relationship between art and power.
• Analysis of how art can both challenge and reinforce social hierarchies.
• Discussion on the potential for art to act as a form of cultural resistance.

Part 6: Case Studies
• Detailed analysis of specific artworks and their impact on the boundaries of art.
• Examination of contemporary art movements and their challenges to traditional boundaries.
• Discussion on the role of controversial art in redefining the art field.

Part 7: Scholarly Perspectives
• Review of key scholarly articles and interpretations of art boundaries and distinctions.
• Identification of major debates and differing viewpoints in art theory.
• Discussion on research gaps and the significance of this study.

Part 8: Practical Implications
• Examination of the practical implications of redefining art boundaries for contemporary society.
• Discussion on how these insights can inform current debates on cultural policy and art education.
• Exploration of the relevance of this research for artists, curators, and cultural institutions.

Part 9:  Research Methods
• Introduction to qualitative research methods in philosophy and art theory.
• Techniques for textual analysis, critical interpretation, and case study research.
• Practical exercises to develop research skills.

Part 10: Writing the Research Paper
• Guidance on structuring and writing a well-argued research paper.
• Tips for effective academic writing and citation practices.
• Instructions on preparing and delivering an engaging oral presentation.

Suitable for

High School Students:  
• Interested in philosophy, art theory, and cultural studies, preparing for advanced studies or competitions.
• Basic knowledge of philosophical and artistic concepts.

University Students:
• Majoring in philosophy, art history, cultural studies, or related fields, seeking to deepen understanding and engage in research.
• Familiar with basic theories of philosophy and art criticism.