glossary

Aesthetic in art is a term that refers to the power a work has to move the participant in an emotional or psychological way. Of the many aspects of art, it is one of the most subjective of concepts. When an individual approaches a work of art it will either appeal to that aesthetic sense or it will not. For many beauty in art is synonymous with aesthetics. However, art can move one in more ways than just beauty. The work could be majestic, profound, intricate, well-crafted, well-balanced, unique, etcetera. The important aspect is that it captures the interest of that individual in a powerful way. Note that like beauty, aesthetics is often in the ‘eye of the beholder’.