Single Idea 23928

[catalogued under 21. Aesthetics / A. Aesthetic Experience / 2. Aesthetic Attitude]

Full Idea

The contemplation of pure form leads to a state of extraordinary exaltation and complete detachment from the concerns of life.

Gist of Idea

Good art produces exaltation and detachment

Source

Clive Bell (Art [1913], I.III)

Book Reference

Bell,Clive: 'Art' [nk 2010], p.25


A Reaction

The last part is what gets the arts a bad name with the people who do deal with the concerns of life (which won't go away, even for an artist!). However, being totally trapped in the concerns of life is probably a recipe for misery.