Abstract

This paper investigates what it means to ‘live-well’ through aesthetic expression and aesthetic experience. Using Aristotle’s notion of eudaimonia to aid my own conception of what it means to live well, I turn first to the empirical evidence of enhanced self-regulatory behavior through arts education as demonstrated in Barry A. Oreck’s social psychological study. I will then turn to the epistemological discussion associated with knowledge in our notions of what it means to live well. In this second chapter I shall answer some objections one may encounter in the discussion of aesthetics epistemological significance. Finally, I will discuss the theoretical history of aesthetic philosophy that prompted my research, using Schiller, Nietzsche, Schopenhauer and Gadamer to support my thesis. In conclusion I find that art can and should play a significant role in our lives, as individuals and within society as a whole. Therefore, it is essential that we promote the arts, because it leads to and is a constituent part of living well, enhancing our ability to recognize and be successful in our pursuit of the good life. The second part of my research is a brief essay about my artistic endeavors and the artists that have informed my practical body of work in Studio Art. I discuss several works in relations to the artists that informed their context and content.

Advisor

Rudisill, John

Second Advisor

Mangubi, Marina

Department

Art and Art History; Philosophy

Disciplines

Aesthetics | Fine Arts | Philosophy

Publication Date

2014

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2014 Christina M. Haupt