Understanding Art and Its Appreciation: Deconstructing the Amateur vs. Professional Divide

In the realm of academia and art, the divide between art appreciation and art history often appears stark and unbridgeable. However, this division is more nuanced than it first appears. Art appreciation, once thought to be for amateurs, is now recognized as a foundational step in understanding the broader scope of art and the emotions it evokes. In contrast, art history, traditionally reserved for professionals, provides a more detailed and specialized insight into the evolution of artistic movements and techniques.

Art Appreciation: A Broader and Deeper Inquiry

Art appreciation, in its essence, transcends the limitations of art as merely a visually pleasing or relatable phenomenon. It is about understanding the emotional and psychological responses that art evokes. Every work of art, regardless of its complexity or style, aims to communicate something profound—be it love, hate, peace, chaos, or raunchiness. The success of any artist lies in their ability to stir these emotions, even if they do so without the obviousness that one might expect.

When a person dismisses a piece of art as 'ugly' or 'easily done,' they are, in fact, acknowledging the artist's success in evoking a strong emotional response. This emotional connection is what sets art apart from mere decoration. Art appreciation is not just about loving the art but also criticizing it with an open mind. It is about understanding that not everyone’s tastes align, and that is perfectly fine. Art appreciation is an entry-level course suitable for anyone, regardless of their prior artistic knowledge.

The Interplay Between Art Appreciation and Art History

For a person to be a good historian, it is essential to be moved by the art they study. This emotion ensures that the historian is open and willing to suspend judgment, which is a crucial component of both art appreciation and art history. Being open without judgment is what allows one to truly engage with and understand art.

However, does this mean that art appreciation is solely for dilettantes and art history is purely for professionals? Not at all. While it is true that art appreciation is a foundational skill that requires little to no prior knowledge, art history demands a more specialized and detailed understanding of art movements, artists, and techniques. Nevertheless, there is a significant overlap between the two. As people begin to appreciate the pleasures of art, they often want to learn about its historical context, which deepens their appreciation.

The Indissoluble Connection Between Art Appreciation and Art History

The theory of art proposed by the philosopher Abigail Housen sheds light on the interconnected nature of these disciplines. According to Housen, the appreciation of art involves different levels of engagement and understanding. Each piece of art can be appreciated at various levels, from a superficial glance to a deep, scholarly analysis.

Ellen Cutler, in her response to someone who could not understand abstract art, suggests that these questions arise from a lack of connection to the emotional and psychological aspects of art. This issue is not exclusive to those who cannot paint but rather to anyone who struggles to feel a connection to abstract forms.

It is erroneous to assert that one can fully appreciate art without some understanding of its history. The skills that connect the eye, brain, and art in a meaningful way are foundational to both art appreciation and art scholarship. Art history helps students understand the context in which art is created and provide a deeper appreciation of the work.

Unifying Art Appreciation and Art History

While art appreciation and art history can be approached from different angles, they are essentially the same activity viewed through different lenses. Art history provides a historical and academic framework, while art appreciation focuses on the immediate emotional and psychological impact of art. Both are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of art.

In conclusion, the distinction between art appreciation and art history is not as rigid as it may seem. Both disciplines are vital for a deep and multifaceted understanding of art. Art appreciation is accessible to all, while art history requires a more specialized knowledge. However, the two are deeply interconnected, and understanding one enhances the other, making them essential companions in the journey of art.