FAH102H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 11: Kazimir Malevich, Western Canon, Art History
Document Summary
Idea of canon implies a rule or a law (ancient greek). Signifies a series of preferred texts (like bible) Implies that the canonical tradition is based on a process of active selection and repression. The canon, is based on a series of inclusions and exclusions. The different ways the supposed universal norms of canonical art history were build on, reflect an implicit conception of both artist and viewer; a conception formed in a very small section of europe. It is important to recognize that different and rival versions of art"s histories are offered. History a single narrative of a evolutionary progress structured around individual artists. Pattern of assumptions and values involved in these narratives show what art historians refer to as the canon of western art: these artworks are seen as the height of artistic excellence and aesthetic value. Museums and books participate in this construction of a canon.
