The experience of holistic analysis of art

Abstract

This article compares two approaches: scientific, which is oriented towards the ideals of natural science; and holistic, which is oriented towards humanities. The author attributes the work of L. S. Vygotsky “Psychology of Art” to the first approach, however notices that the founder of Soviet psychology implements humanistic approach in addition to natural scientific. The object of this research is the aesthetic response; Vygotsky shows that art is the so-called machine of human development. In contrast to this, within the framework of holistic approach, the author outlines the two basic patterns that should encompass the wholeness and essence of art. On the one hand, this is artistic communication, while on the other – artistic reality. Artistic communication has ambivalent characteristics: as a special non-utilitarian environment of human life and communication, as well as historically formed semiosis of art. Both characteristics are explained using a brief genesis of establishment of art, simultaneously demonstrating the role of philosophical reflection, which is the key in determination and description of the artistic reality of artworks. The author aims to show that although artistic reality represents an artifact created with the use of expressive means, it is perceived by the audience as the world of natural events. The latter allow the audience to live to the fullest and fulfill their personality. The article discusses the alternative concepts of the purpose of art, as well as the role creativity, and realization of the writer's worldview.