The Philosophy of Lines: From Art Nouveau to Cyberspace

This book explores the philosophical significance of lines in art, architecture, and culture, tracing their history from antiquity to the present. It compares Western and Eastern traditions, examining lines in the works of artists such as Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Henri Michaux, as well as in Chinese and Japanese art and calligraphy. Lines are not just a matter of aesthetics but also reflect the psychological states of entire cultures, and non-Euclidean geometry in the nineteenth century influenced modern art and paved the way for virtual reality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 259 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the profound philosophical realm of lines, exploring their intricate connections across art, culture, and history. From their ancient origins to the present day, lines serve as both physical phenomena and cognitive responses to the world around us. Through a comprehensive examination, the book unveils the "philosophy of lines" in art, architecture, and science, comparing Western and Eastern traditions. It examines the captivating works of renowned artists such as Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Henri Michaux, as well as the rich tapestry of Chinese and Japanese art and calligraphy. Lines, far from being mere aesthetic elements, hold the power to reflect the psychological states of entire cultures. In the nineteenth century, the advent of non-Euclidean geometry gave rise to the mesmerizing phenomenon of the "self-negating line," which left an indelible mark on modern art and paved the way for the emergence of virtual reality.

Straight lines, distorted lines, blurred lines, hot and cold lines, dynamic lines, lines of force, virtual lines, and countless other forms of lines intertwine to narrate the remarkable development of human civilization. Each line carries a story, a narrative that speaks to our shared heritage and the evolution of our understanding of the world.

This book is a testament to the enduring power of lines and their ability to inspire, provoke, and transform. It invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, where lines become the threads that connect us to the past, present, and future. As we explore the rich tapestry of lines across different cultures and artistic movements, we gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and endless possibilities that they embody. So, let us embrace the power of lines and unlock the secrets of their philosophical and artistic significance.

Weight: 359g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030653453
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021