Painting and Presence: Why Paintings Matter

The author of this book argues that paintings have value because they lead us to truth. He traces this understanding of painting as ontologically revelatory from the theology of the Byzantine Icon to classical Chinese appreciations of landscape painting, to the work of Merleau-Ponty and other Phenomenologists inspired by European Modernist art. He argues that the value of painting can only be properly understood in the context of a wider metaphysics or theology in which value is understood, not as a human projection, but as a basic characteristic of reality as such.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This book delves into the intriguing question of why paintings possess value, exploring the reasons behind their worthiness of creation and attention. The author begins by addressing the challenge posed by Plato's critique of the arts, which suggests that they do not necessarily lead us to truth and goodness. However, the author contends that painting can indeed fulfill this criterion, demonstrating that it possesses the ability to guide us toward the truth.

What paintings offer is a non-discursive form of knowledge by acquaintance, where the essence of the painting's subject matter is made vividly present to the viewer. This understanding of painting as ontologically revelatory can be traced back through various historical and cultural contexts, including the theology of Byzantine icons, classical Chinese appreciations of landscape painting, the work of phenomenologists influenced by European modernist art, and more.

The author argues that this account of painting as revealing the essences of things can be reconciled with expressive and formalist theories of painting, as well as applied to abstract and representational forms of art. However, the true value of painting can only be fully understood within the broader context of a metaphysics or theology that recognizes value as a fundamental characteristic of reality itself, rather than as a human projection.

In the concluding part of the book, the author explores this idea further, arguing that the value of painting can only be properly understood when viewed within the framework of a wider metaphysics or theology that understands value as an inherent aspect of the universe. This perspective allows us to appreciate the profound significance of paintings as a means of capturing and conveying the essence of reality, offering us a glimpse into the deeper truths of our existence.

In conclusion, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the value of paintings, challenging traditional perspectives and providing a fresh understanding of their role in shaping our cultural and intellectual landscape. Through its rich and nuanced analysis, it invites us to reevaluate our perception of art and its potential to reveal the truth about the world around us.

Weight: 546g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192856289