Ways of Seeing Quiz 1 Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What we see and what we know/believe _______________ (p. 7).

are rarely in perfect alignment

Which of the following defines an image, as Berger describes it (p. 9-10)? (Note: this question has more than one correct answer.)

It embodies a way of seeing. (correct)

It is an appearance that has been preserved and detached from its original time and place. (correct)

It is a sight that has been recreated or reproduced. (correct)

It is man-made. (correct)

Our appreciation of an image depends upon ______________ (p. 10).

our own way of seeing

Berger believes that common assumptions about art (e.g. beauty, truth, genius, etc.) _________________ (p. 11).

E.a & b Signup and view all the answers

Define the term 'convention' as it is used by Berger (p. 16).

a rule, method, or practice established by usage; custom Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about (linear) perspective are true? (Note: this question has more than one correct answer.)

Linear perspective gives the sense that the viewer is the center of the world. Signup and view all the answers

When the camera reproduces a painting, Berger says, it destroys the uniqueness of its image (p. 19). As a result, its meaning:

F.a & d Signup and view all the answers

Here, the word 'context' refers to the artwork's:

surroundings Signup and view all the answers

In our age of reproduction, meaning now lies in what a painting is rather than what it says. Its value depends on its rarity and its authenticity (p. 21).

True Signup and view all the answers

How does Berger explain the 'bogus religiosity' that surrounds original works of art (p. 23)?

It's a social strategy used to maintain the exclusivity or elite status of art. Signup and view all the answers

How does the ongoing mystification of art relate to who in society shows interest in art (p. 24)?

Those who feel excluded from art tend to be people who have less access to education. Signup and view all the answers

In our age of pictorial reproduction, the meaning of artworks (p. 24):

D.b & c Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are ways in which reproductions can affect the meaning of an artwork (p. 24-30)?

G.all of the above Signup and view all the answers

Berger believes that in the age of reproductions there is no value in viewing original works of art (p. 30-31).

False Signup and view all the answers

According to Berger, 'The real question is: to whom does the meaning of the art of the past properly belong?' In his view, art belongs (p. 32-33):

to everyone. Signup and view all the answers

How can we use art to become 'active agents' of our collective history and to enrich our personal experiences (p. 32-33)?

By learning how to use the language of images. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Perspectives on Viewing Art

Perception and belief often misalign; our understanding of images is shaped by personal biases.
Art is defined as a man-made construction, preserved in a specific context, and embodies a particular viewpoint.

Understanding Image Appreciation

Appreciation of an image hinges on individual interpretation and perspective.
Common beliefs regarding art—such as beauty and truth—are challenged by Berger’s view.

Conventions and Context in Art

"Convention" refers to established norms or practices in understanding art.
The context of an artwork, including its surroundings, greatly influences its interpretation.

Nature of Perspective

Linear perspective centers the viewer's experience, positioning them at the forefront of visual organization.
The ideal of linear perspective shapes our understanding of spatial arrangement in art.

Impact of Reproduction

The uniqueness of an artwork diminishes when reproduced, altering its original meaning and significance.
Art's newly defined value hinges on its authenticity and rarity in the age of reproduction.

The Societal Role of Art

Berger critiques the elitist nature of art appreciation, noting that those with less education feel more excluded from the art world.
Ongoing mystification serves to uphold the status of original artworks, reinforcing social hierarchies.

Art's Meaning in Reproduction

In a world dominated by visual reproduction, the essence of artworks is believed to pivot more towards their physical composition than their perceived messages.
Reproductions can alter perceptions and meanings of original works, having multiple effects on how art is interpreted.

Value of Original Artworks

Berger argues against the notion that original art holds no value in the face of reproductions; original pieces still possess significance.

Collective Ownership of Art

The meaning of past artworks, according to Berger, should belong to everyone, advocating for shared access and understanding in art appreciation.
Engaging with art can make individuals "active agents" in their history, enhancing personal and collective experiences through visual literacy.

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Description

Test your knowledge on John Berger's 'Ways of Seeing' with these flashcards covering key concepts from the text. This quiz focuses on the relationship between perception and knowledge, as well as definitions of images according to Berger. Perfect for students and enthusiasts of visual culture and art theory.