Fill in the Gaps

There is more to what meets the eye. Not every observation is obvious. Goodman discusses the concept of two flashing shapes. As the observer, we are not aware of the object moving until the second flash occurs. This causes us to move backwards and see the scenario in reverse. He then goes even further and analyzes colors. Some objects don't even change color until the last second. This theory can go even further and be demonstrated in movies or flip books. Our mind fills in the gaps, even if they are miniscule seconds of time. To go from one scene to another causes us to unconsciously make up for the missing difference. In order to create new worlds, we must take from previous worlds and reconstruct and deduct. We can find something new in the gaps that are created.

Formation of a Face

I believe that Elkin's definition of a face and Goodman's definition of identity go hand-in-hand. A face is just an organization of entities, such as the eyes, nose and mouth. Without emotion, an inanimate object can resemble and represent a face. The position doesn't matter, as long as it has all the entities. It depends on the frame of reference and focuses on an individual's perspective.
When we smile, is it really happiness or only representing happiness? If we smile frequently, will it take away from the original meaning and emotion that a smile brings? The joy of a smile can be from within or part of a daily routine. We can smile for comfort and manipulate others within through emotion. It is up to our own discernment whether a smile is genuine or not and to determine what formation the face makes.

When is Art?

Style is saying the same thing in two different ways, it is the opposite of a synonym. An example from the book could be between the sample of swatch or the giant cupcake. When an object has more than one meaning it becomes confusing. In the example, which properties are exemplified depends on context. Style is what is exemplified. The difference between style and subject are the way we say things and what we are talking about. What we find is not dependent on what we seek. Expression is a big part of style, but is not limited by feelings. "Art without symbols is restricted to art without subject (58)" and properties that do not symbolize are considered 'pure' art. Symbols are external to the picture. Goodman's purpose is to free style from former constraints.

Norton Museum of Art

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