Empirická estetika v praxi: Případová studie Vermeerovy Dívky s perlou
| Title in English | Empirical Aesthetics in Practice: A Case Study of Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring |
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| Year of publication | 2024 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | The relationship between psychology and aesthetics, particularly between empirical and philosophical aesthetics, is often a subject of debate. While empirical aesthetics argues that research into why something is appealing can lay the groundwork for studying aesthetic evaluation, philosophical aesthetics claims that these are separate endeavors and emphasizes that psychology is not relevant to aesthetics. However, as Noel Carroll points out, the emotions evoked by a work of art cannot be reduced to purely philosophical concepts but must also be understood in psychological and cognitive contexts. This conference paper aims to critically examine the significance of psychological aspects in aesthetic inquiry, with a focus on empirical aesthetics. Using a case study of Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, I will explore how psychological processes can influence our perception and interpretation of artworks. This will draw on recent research revealing stronger emotional reactions to viewing the original artwork compared to reproductions, and the phenomenon of the “sustained attentional loop”, which prolongs our engagement with the piece. The presentation will also include a discussion on how empirical findings can enrich aesthetics and whether it is meaningful to integrate psychological methods into aesthetic research. |
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