Theory of Form: Gerhard Richter and Art in the Pragmatist Age

A pragmatist approach to artistic form, as studied by Gerhard Richter, suggests that form is action rather than expression or representation. This approach understands art as a human practice that tests and transforms the limits of shared reality, making it more real and enabling interaction in situations where non-artistic reality breaks down. Florian Klinger's book offers a distinctive conceptual alternative to contemporary art.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2022
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

In this comprehensive exploration of the artistic practice of contemporary painter Gerhard Richter, Florian Klinger offers a groundbreaking perspective that challenges the prevailing paradigms in contemporary art. Responding to the exhaustion of the modernist-postmodernist discourse on the negotiation of the "essence of art," Klinger proposes a radical shift in our understanding of artistic form. Instead of perceiving art as a means of expression, representation, or realization of something other than itself, Klinger advocates for a pragmatist model that views artistic form as an active agent.

According to this perspective, form is not merely a vehicle for conveying ideas or emotions but is defined by its actions and effects. Klinger argues that artistic form is not only more authentic but also more universally accessible than non-artistic reality. It enables interaction and engagement under circumstances where such interaction would otherwise be impossible. This is particularly significant in situations where the shared reality is fragile or precarious, as art has the potential to test and transform the boundaries of this reality.

Klinger's analysis of Richter's practice is grounded in pragmatist thought, philosophical aesthetics, and a deep understanding of art history. He draws upon various scholars and theorists to support his arguments, including John Dewey, William James, and Richard Rorty. Through a meticulous examination of Richter's work, Klinger demonstrates how the artist employs a range of techniques, such as layering, blurring, and repetition, to create complex and multifaceted compositions that challenge the viewer's perception and understanding of reality.

In conclusion, Florian Klinger's study of Gerhard Richter's practice presents a compelling conceptual alternative for contemporary art. By embracing a pragmatist model of artistic form, Klinger challenges the traditional notions of art as a static object or a means of expression. Instead, he proposes that art is an active agent that can shape and transform the shared reality we inhabit. Through a rigorous analysis of Richter's work and a thoughtful exploration of pragmatist philosophy, Klinger offers a valuable contribution to the field of art theory and criticism.

Dimension: 216 x 140 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226347158