THE EVOLUTION OF THE CONCEPT OF ART: FROM THE SYSTEM OF FINE ARTS TO MODERN AESTHETICS

Abstract

This paper explores the historical evolution and transformation of the concept of art from the Renaissance and the Enlightenment to the era of Modernism and contemporary aesthetic theories. The first section analyzes the gradual establishment of the "system of fine arts," tracing its roots from the early notions found in the works of Francesco da Hollanda and François Blondel, through the definitive conceptualization in Charles Batteux’s 1747 treatise, to the autonomy of art formulated by Friedrich Schiller. The study highlights a modern paradox: while the Classical and Medieval concept of art—grounded in craftsmanship and rules—was clear and easily definable, the contemporary concept of art, burdened by subjectivism and pluralism, evades universal definitions. The second section shifts focus toward the methodological framework of comparative art analysis (drawing on the contributions of V. Panić and M. Ranković) and the recontextualization of the ancient concept of mimesis. It addresses the problem of representation within twentieth-century abstract art, contrasting and synthesizing the theoretical perspectives of Giulio Carlo Argan and Rosalind Krauss. Conclusively, the paper examines the relationship between perception, visual models of reality, and epistemology, emphasizing that contemporary art transforms mimesis from mere imitation and replication toward a complex system of reference and subjective expression.