Episode 107: Art for Arts Sake

"Art for arts sake” from French slogan “l’art pour l’art” —expresses a philosophy/concept that the intrinsic value of art, and the only “true” art, is divorced from any didactic, moral, or utilitarian function. In Greek, these works are described as autoteles (aut- + telos, meaning self + goal) or “autotelic—complete in itself.”

Whistler, Nocturne in Black and Gold, 1872-77

“Beauty is a form of Genius--is higher, indeed, than Genius, as it needs no explanation. It is one of the great facts of the world, like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in the dark waters of that silver shell we call the moon. It cannot be questioned. It has divine right of sovereignty. It makes princes of those who have it.” —Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde

James Abbott McNeill Whistler, The Peacock Room

Edward Burne-Jones, Golden Stairs, 1876-1880, Tate Britain

Rosetti, Lady Lilith, 1868

Soul's Beauty

Body's Beauty

We apologize for the delay in uploading this episode. We hope you enjoyed learning more about "Art for Arts Sake". Next week Lauren will be back with Julia discussing the differences between Florentine and Venetian art. 

Episode 008: What you'll find at the Tate Britain

In this week's podcast, we give you a taste of what you might see if you go to the Tate in London, England.

The building of the Tate Britain as well as the beginnings of the museum's collections were donated by Sir Henry Tate.

Ophelia by Millais

Lady of Shalott by Waterhouse

The above two images come from a group known as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. While short-lived, these images were looking to more medieval works as inspiration.

Annunciation by Rosetti

Daydream  by Rosetti

The Golden Bough by Turner

Haywain by Constable

Nebuchadnezzar by Blake

While most of these pieces come from more permanent exhibits, there are several exhibits that come and go at the Tate, including a 20th Century walk. To experience an online tour, check out the virtual tour with the Google Arts Project. If you happen to be in the area, make sure you don't miss out on the Tate!