
Art and illusion: a psychological study of pictorial representation
[British] EH Gombrich
Guangxi Fine Arts Publishing House
2012-06-01
BackSummary
Described by Kenneth Clark as "one of the most brilliant books of art criticism I have ever read", Art and Illusion is a classic study of image making. It seeks to answer a simple question: how can there be something called style?
Highlights
For the book Art and Illusion: A Psychological Study of Pictorial Representation, these sentences are either profound, unique in perspective, beautiful in language, full of wisdom, or creative. These sentences or paragraphs are numbered and professionally adjusted according to the readers' reading habits. 1. "Our age is a visual age. We are invaded by pictures from morning to night." - It deeply reflects the ubiquity of image culture in contemporary society and its huge impact on people's lives. 2. "The history of art is the history of visual methods and the history of viewers." - A unique perspective that closely links the history of art with the visual experience of viewers. 3. "Illusions are not mistakes, but another interpretation of reality." - It wisely explains the positive role of illusions in art. 4. "Artists not only create images, but also create ways to see images." - It emphasizes the initiative of artists in the creative process and the passivity of the audience in receiving images. 5. "The authenticity of a work of art does not lie in its similarity to reality, but in the emotional response it evokes." - It beautifully expresses the subjectivity and emotionality of artistic authenticity. 6. “Images are not copies of reality, but models of reality.” - Creatively proposed that the relationship between images and reality is not a simple copy, but a conscious construction. 7. “Viewing is an activity that changes the things being viewed.” - Profoundly pointed out the impact of viewing behavior itself on the object being viewed. 8. “Art is a language that expresses human emotions and thoughts with a unique symbol system.” - Intelligently compares art with language, highlighting the important role of art in communication. 9. “Illusions are part of art and are tools used by artists to guide the audience’s sight.” - Uniquely analyzed the practical function of illusions in artistic creation. 10. “The charm of a work of art lies in its ability to transcend the boundaries of time and space and resonate with audiences of different times.” - Beautifully depicts the universal value of a work of art and its ability to transcend time and space. 11. “Images not only reflect reality, but also construct reality.” - Emphasized the important role of images in shaping people’s cognition. 12. “The artist’s task is not to copy nature, but to interpret nature.” - clearly defines the relationship between the artist and nature, as well as the goal of artistic creation. 13. “Viewing is a choice, a way of interpreting reality.” - wisely points out the subjectivity and selectivity of viewing behavior. 14. “Art is a visual game that challenges the limits of our perception.” - creatively compares art with games, highlighting the entertainment and challenge of art. 15. “Illusion is the magic of art, it allows us to see things that do not exist.” - vividly depicts the magical role of illusion in artistic creation. 16. “Each painting is an independent universe with its own rules and logic.” - emphasizes the independence and self-sufficiency of works of art. 17. “Art is a mirror of reality, but it reflects not the appearance of reality, but the essence of reality.” - profoundly reveals the inherent connection and difference between art and reality. 18. “Viewing is a translation that transforms images into meaning.” - uniquely explains the role of viewing behavior as a bridge between images and meanings. 19. "Artists have special eyes, they can see things that ordinary people cannot see." - Praises the artist's unique observation and creativity. 20. "Art is a kind of exploration, it constantly challenges our cognitive boundaries." - Summarizes the important role of art in expanding the scope of human cognition.
About the Author
EH Gombrich: A master of psychology in exploring art and illusions EH Gombrich (Ernst Hans Josef Gombrich) is a famous art historian, art theorist and psychologist.
His book Art and Illusion: A Study in the Psychology of Pictorial Representation has been an important reference book in the field of art history and psychology since its first publication in 1960.< This article will comprehensively introduce this outstanding scholar from the aspects of personal basic information, education and professional background, writing career, style and theme of works, personal life, social influence, citations and evaluations, and latest developments.
1.< Personal basic information EH Gombrich was born on March 30, 1909 in Vienna, Austria.
He died on November 3, 2001 at the age of 92.< 2.
Education and professional background Gombrich was educated at the University of Vienna and obtained a doctorate in art history.< His mentor was the famous art historian Julius Schlosser.
In 1936, Gombrich moved to England and became a lecturer in art history at University College London.< He later became Slade Professor at University College London until his retirement in 1976.
3.< Writing career Gombrich's writing career began in the 1930s.
His first book was The Story of Art, which has been a bestseller in the field of art history since its first publication in 1950.< In addition to Art and Illusion, he also wrote several books on art history and psychology, such as Symbolic Images and The Sense of Order.
4.< Style and Themes of Works Gombrich's works are known for their interdisciplinary research methods and easy-to-understand writing style.
He focuses on the relationship between art and psychology, philosophy and science, especially the psychological mechanisms of pictorial reproduction.< In Art and Illusion, he explores how artists create realistic images through optical illusions and how viewers interpret these images.
5.< Personal life Gombrich's personal life is relatively low-key.
He spent 65 years of marriage with his wife Irma.< They have one son, Richard.
6.< Social Impact Gombrich's works have had a profound impact on the fields of art history, psychology and aesthetics.
His theories are widely used in art education, art criticism and art creation.< Many scholars and artists have been inspired by him, such as the famous artist David Hockney.
7.< Quotations and Evaluations Gombrich's works have been highly praised by authoritative media, experts and institutions.
"Art and Illusion" was named "one of the most important art books of the 20th century" by Time magazine.< Art historian Kenneth Clark praised the book as "a groundbreaking work that has had a profound impact on the study of art history.
" 8.< Latest Developments Although Gombrich has passed away, his works and theories still have a wide range of influences in academia and the art world.
In recent years, research and discussion on Gombrich remains active, and many scholars continue to explore the application of his theories in the fields of contemporary art and psychology.< In conclusion, EH Gombrich is an outstanding art historian and psychologist, and his book Art and Illusion provides us with a valuable perspective on the relationship between art and psychology.
His works and theories will continue to inspire future scholars and artists, and have a profound impact on the fields of art history and psychology.