Bøger af Daniel Shorkend

In this dissertation I argue that there is an overlap between art and sport. This is achieved by using established theories of art such as formalism, mimesis, expressionism and so on and then showing how one can argue that art exhibits similar features to sport. This is developed further by using philosophers such as Kant and Wittgenstein to justify the idea that the quotidian is indeed an everyday aesthetic and even more than that may be considered as a kind of art. I also draw on historical and institutional meanings, arguing that sport like art is a kind of game and yet it is not simply self-referential, but in a very deep way also contains extra-aesthetic dimensions. The upshot is that art and aesthetics are pervasive and further research may establish not only a theoretical link between "high" art and "low" culture such as sport, but in fact a reciprocal practical benefit. In essence this thesis presents new and pioneering research on the inter-disciplinary nexus between art and sport.

This book explores the potential meaning in art in ten essays. It highlights the dual and paradoxical idea that art is both aesthetic and concerned with the extra-aesthetic. Yet how exactly an aesthetic is said to correspond to a particular meaning and in its relation to other cultural pursuits, is unclear. Is art simply about beauty? Or decoration? Is its purpose social and political or personal, even spiritual? It is difficult to separate the institution of art from other larger institutions. In fact, it is unclear to what extent art today has the same meaning it does in other societies at different historic junctures - if indeed there is a connection between the origin of art that we see in caves today and contemporary conceptions. At any rate, the book goes some way to exploring these questions and suggesting new and interesting ways to think about the meaning of art.

This work consists of two main essays. One, my thoughts, feelings and the roller-coaster having made aliyah - immigration to Israel -from South Africa. It may be useful for all immigrants and specifically those returning to the Holy Land. The other essay is a philosophical basis for the metaphysical foundation of my painting and draws also from the tradition of abstract art. Those who see in art a higher function may gain from reading this. The other fragmented pieces are just thoughts and impressions along the way during my sojourn thus far in Israel.