Art   By: Clive Bell (1881-1964)

Art by Clive Bell is an insightful exploration of the aesthetics and philosophy behind various forms of art. The book delves into the subjective nature of aesthetic experience and examines the principles that govern artistic appreciation. Clive Bell, a prominent art critic and philosopher, offers a comprehensive analysis of what makes art valuable and how it should be evaluated.

Bell introduces the concept of significant form, arguing that the aesthetic value of art lies in its ability to evoke a unique emotional response through its formal elements. He emphasizes that it is not the representation or imitation of reality that determines the artistic merit of a piece, but rather the arrangement of lines, colors, and shapes. According to Bell, this formal arrangement creates a language of its own, capable of transmitting profound emotional and intellectual experiences to the viewer.

One of the strengths of Bell's book is his ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner. He provides numerous examples from various art movements, ranging from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism, to illustrate his theories and demonstrate how artists have employed significant form throughout history. These examples not only enrich the reader's understanding of Bell's concepts but also inspire further exploration of the artworks and artists discussed.

Moreover, the book offers an engaging discussion on the role of the artist in society. Bell explores the inherent tension between the artist's need for creative expression and the society's expectations and demands. He challenges prevailing notions of what art should be, arguing that artists should be free to explore and experiment with new forms of expression without being solely bound by traditional expectations.

While Art by Clive Bell is undoubtedly thought-provoking and insightful, it may not appeal to a general audience. Bell's writing style can be dense and somewhat abstract, which might prove challenging for readers seeking a more casual introduction to art appreciation. Additionally, the book primarily focuses on visual art, potentially leaving those interested in other art forms wanting for a broader exploration of the topic.

Overall, Art by Clive Bell is a seminal work within the field of aesthetics, offering valuable insights into the nature of art and the principles that govern its appreciation. Bell's exploration of significant form and his discussion of the artist's role in society contribute to a deeper understanding of the art world and its intricate mechanisms. While it may not be the most accessible read, it is an essential addition to the library of any art enthusiast or individual seeking a philosophical exploration of art's significance.

First Page:

In this little book I have tried to develop a complete theory of visual art. I have put forward an hypothesis by reference to which the respectability, though not the validity, of all aesthetic judgments can be tested, in the light of which the history of art from palaeolithic days to the present becomes intelligible, by adopting which we give intellectual backing to an almost universal and immemorial conviction. Everyone in his heart believes that there is a real distinction between works of art and all other objects; this belief my hypothesis justifies. We all feel that art is immensely important; my hypothesis affords reason for thinking it so. In fact, the great merit of this hypothesis of mine is that it seems to explain what we know to be true. Anyone who is curious to discover why we call a Persian carpet or a fresco by Piero della Francesca a work of art, and a portrait bust of Hadrian or a popular problem picture rubbish, will here find satisfaction. He will find, too, that to the familiar counters of criticism e.g. "good drawing," "magnificent design," "mechanical," "unfelt," "ill organised," "sensitive," is given, what such terms sometimes lack, a definite meaning... Continue reading book >>