Art and Interpretation; A Qualitative Theory of Art

This article analyzes the possibility of finding a definition of art and the work of art, especially the so called modern art, concentrating on visual art and specifically on painting. First, I briefly analyze some previous attempts and suggest a novel approach that would make it possible to define art as a special form of brainwork. To be able to do this, terms like beauty, aesthetic, and art and their mutual relations are first redefined, concentrating especially on the nature of aesthetic experience as the fundamental aspect of all life in general. Next, I suggest a distinction between craft and art and, based on this distinction, provide a definition of art in the traditional sense of the word, such as art was seen from prehistoric times to 19th century Europe. Thereafter, I suggest a definition of a work art as the realized intention of the artist in non-conceptual form. Finally, I analyze the possibility of interpretation of art according to this theory, concluding that while it is possible to interpret works of art, it is not possible to interpret art because art is the quality of the artwork, and that can only be experienced, not conceptually understood.