In aesthetics, Martin Gardner comes with a convincing argument for the objectivist view of art by stating that art has intrinsic elements that can be approached objectively. Via the book of Vaughn, Gardner’s theory puts forward the argument that art can be evaluated against universal standards beyond individual choices and culture. Along with Gardner’s strengths, the limitations of his point of view also need to be considered (Dai, 2023). Gardner proposes that specific objective criteria make art different from mere artifacts, such as skillful execution or emotional resonance and thematic depth. Vaughn’s book underscores that people of all cultures and ages share specific aesthetic experiences. In Gardner’s words, these cross-cultural experiences provide a foundation for objectively judging the level of aesthetic merit of any artistic work.
One of the many advantages of Gardner’s objectivist stance is that it can help everybody develop a general view of art. Gardner’s theory formulates such criteria, enabling a distinction of genuinely coined artistic masterpieces regardless of individual preferences. This element gives rise to a higher understanding and admiration for the diverse artistic traditions thriving in distinct communities. Besides, his manner of thinking also allows for an advancement of the critics of the art community (Cooper, 2023). Objectivism can be a foundation to discuss what constitutes artistic excellence in light of technical proficiency, emotional impact or resonance, and thematic depth and significance. This grand tradition may force artists to struggle against their spirits to be regarded as masterpieces since such standards have developed throughout history.
Nonetheless, the questions regarding Gardner’s view maintain some hardships. One of the challenges faced is often the nature of the subjectification in interpretation. However, a few components of art can be scientifically proven as accurate, but the attribution of the meaning and significance to artworks often varies from person to person. Such biases implicate Gardner’s vision of the proposed theory about universal comprehension.
Moreover, a remarkable factor of culture is the inbox of cultural context that impacts artistic tastes and standards. This statement precisely reflects that we all perceive beauty differently: what art is for one culture could be very different from another. This approach gives rise to severe problems, such as evaluating Gardner’s proposed criterion and how they can be applied in the varied cultural estimation. For example, Leonardo da Vinci’s appealing painting, “Mona Lisa,” could be used to describe Gardner’s theory. According to the definition of this theory, its technical expertise, the refined use of light and shade, and the enigmatic expression render it art using the objectivist yardstick. Moreover, we can talk to experts who prove this work of art’s lasting charm and the fact that it is globally acclaimed.
Even though I agree with Gardner’s empiricism, where art is about good technical skills and the mere imitation of forms, I am siding with a pluralist attitude about aesthetics. Pluralism admits to the existence of art, which has a diverse prevalence of objective fact and subjective understanding among us. The aim is to leave space for different experience levels and critical thinking without eliminating universal truths.
Overall, Martin Gardner’s explanation of the objectivist tenet of art focuses on the essential qualities of art and tells us the significant appreciation of art. Even though there are strengths and weaknesses, these factors need to be considered carefully on a case-by-case basis. Objectivism aids universal, equal evaluation and constructive criticism. Still, it might overlook the rater’s subjective factors, such as individual interpretation and the influence of the cultural context (Sabnis & Newman, 2023). The pluralistic approach, embracing an objective and subjective part of aesthetics, is the best method for the definition of art and many people’s artistic expression. It promotes participation and different appraisals of internal relations and brings human experience to light in many colors.
Reference
Cooper, C. K. (2023). Using Art to Illustrate Medical Empathy to Physician Assistants (Doctoral dissertation, Northeastern University).
Dai, D. Y. (2023). Existing Theories and Models of Talent Development. In Talent Development from the Perspective of Developmental Science: A Guide to Use-Inspired Research on Human Excellence (pp. 11-35). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
Sabnis, S. V., & Newman, D. S. (2023). Epistemological diversity, constructionism, and social justice research in school psychology. School Psychology Review, 52(5), 625-638.
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