Playing with Meaning
Led by Nigel Warburton author of The Art Question and A Little History of Philosophy.
Works of art have meanings, meanings that are intended, accidental, contextual. Often they play with questions about meaning itself, whether obliquely or overtly. They can also be quirky, playful, humorous, poetic, conceptual. In this six-part course we explore some of the general philosophical questions about art and meaning, as well as specific questions about particular artworks. Each session begins in the East Room at Tate Modern with a combination of a short introductory lecture with discussion in small groups, followed by a visit to the galleries including the Paul Klee and Mira Schendel exhibitions. Topics covered include the role of artistic intentions and context in the creation of meaning, art and daydreaming, the nature of humour, art that alludes to philosophy, and the relationship between the visual and conceptual elements of art. Philosophers whose work is discussed include Richard Wollheim, Arthur Danto and Noël Carroll.
This course is open to all levels and experience of philosophy and art history. Ticket price includes drinks in the Members Room after each session.
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