Aesthetic Creation

This book presents a compelling argument for understanding art's purpose through aesthetic properties, offering a fresh perspective on creativity and value in art.

In Aesthetic Creation, Nick Zangwill delves into the fundamental questions surrounding the purpose and value of art. He begins by exploring what drives individuals to create art and why society places importance on it. Through his exploration, Zangwill posits that understanding art requires us to address these core inquiries. He introduces his concept of 'the Aesthetic Creation Theory,' which asserts that a work of art is crafted with a specific aesthetic intention in mind.

Zangwill argues that the essence of art lies in its aesthetic properties, which are inherently linked to its non-aesthetic properties. This relationship is shaped by the artist's insight into these dependencies and their intention to manifest them in their work. Throughout Aesthetic Creation, he provides a comprehensive account of aesthetic action and creative thought, illustrating how his theory can address various counterexamples that challenge traditional aesthetic theories, such as narrative art and avant-garde movements.

Additionally, Zangwill critiques several competing theories, including Dickie's institutional theory and sociological approaches that attempt to define art without emphasizing aesthetics. By thoroughly examining these perspectives, Aesthetic Creation offers a nuanced understanding of art's nature, inviting readers to reconsider their own views on what art is and why it matters.