Art Theory Lm A 2024/2025

Art as Theory

The course aims at providing basic theoretical knowledge for analyzing many different theories and definitions of art, deeply rooted in the western philosophical tradition. The course also includes an introduction to the basic contemporary debate in art theory, both analytical and continental tradition, with constant reference to the modern and contemporary art scene. Its main goal is to deepen and enlarge our ideas about art and the way to look at the contemporary artworld.  

Books:

- Giuseppe Patella, But is it Art? Outlines of Aesthetics and Art Theory, Rome, 2025.

- Harrison & Wood (eds.), Art in Theory. 1900-2000, London, Blackwell, 2000, selected pages provided by instructor.

- Giuseppe Patella, Public Art and Memory, in "Possible Worlds of Contemporary Aesthetics", 2019, provided by instructor.

Students are required to prepare a presentation (Powerpoint) on the topics of the book Art in Theory, to be discussed during the last day of class, and to write a paper to be sent to the instructor at least one week before the exam.

The Exam is oral on texts discussed in class, this part is graded 60% of the total; paper presentation 40%.