Theories of Art

Pre-requisites: The course requirements are passed exam in Writing on Art, and completed attendance to lectures in Methodology of Art History.

Course objectives: Main goals are to present theoretical systems of leading art researchers 18th - 20th century; to highlight the common theoretical problems in these systems; to indicate the scientific basis of art theories; to show various ways of forming a theory of art.

Course description: Sources of art theory; types and objects art theory. Theorists and their systems from Aristotle to the end of the 20th century; subjects of art theory as their conceptual touch points. The scientific basis of art theory; theoretical thoughts on the elements and phases of the development of art. Possible emphasis on scientifically insufficiently tested areas of visual expression and recognition of theoretical problems in them.

Learning Outcomes: The course is designed to enable understanding the theoretical layer in text on art as a basis for art historical methodology and writing. Students are encouraged to start independently to think on art, while developing responsibility for own attitude as well as tolerance towards different opinions.

Literature/Reading:

• M. B. Protić, «Struktura i značenje umetničkog dela», u: Oblik i vreme, Beograd 1979, 21-43; 76-152; 185-217.
• Grupa autora i M. B. Protić, Ideje srpske umetničke kritike i teorije, I-III, Beograd: Muzej savremene umetnosti 1980-1981.
• R. Arnhajm, Umetnost i vizuelno opažanje. Psilohogija stvaralačkog gledanja - Nova verzija, Beograd 1987.
• P. Dragojević, Elementi neoklasicizma. Nastanak i sklop jednog stila u likovnim umetnostima, Beograd 2001.