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Art Quote by Susan Sontag

“[T]he visibility of styles is itself a product of historical consciousness. ... The very notion of "style" needs to be approached historically. Awareness of style as a problematic and isolable element in a work of art has emerged in the audience for art only at certain historical moments - as a…” quote by Susan Sontag
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“[T]he visibility of styles is itself a product of historical consciousness. ... The very notion of "style" needs to be approached historically. Awareness of style as a problematic and isolable element in a work of art has emerged in the audience for art only at certain historical moments - as a front behind which other issues, ultimately ethical and political, are being debated.”

Susan Sontag

About This Quote

The concept of "style" is shaped by historical context and reflects deeper ethical and political debates.

In simple terms: Style is a historical construct tied to larger issues.

Key Takeaway

Consider the historical forces behind artistic styles.

Themes

art history politics ethics

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

critical academic

When to use this quote

  • art criticism
  • museum curation
  • academic research
  • media studies

Key Concepts

historical consciousness style theory critical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What historical factors influence current artistic trends?
  • How does style reflect power structures?
A Different Perspective

Style analysis can overlook individual agency.

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