Reconciling Art and Philosophy: Exploring the Paradoxical Nature of Noumenist Artistic Mechanism
What is it about?
The distinction between the noumenal and the phenomenal is a philosophical idea proposed by Immanuel Kant. However, Jacques Derrida's method of deconstruction seems to suggest that this distinction is arbitrary, just like any other binary opposition. Noumenism is a philosophy that rejects the idea of dualism between phenomena (things we can perceive) and noumena (things beyond our perception). According to Noumenism, works of art attain his paradoxical status is achieved through a mechanism invented by the artist, which allows the artwork to function in a unique and unconventional way. This mechanism results in a "compound-image," created by combining different systems or elements that are usually considered separate. To illustrate this concept, the article analyzes a poem: 'No. 6' from Noumenist poet Jason Johnson's collection 'Hymns from Purgatory.' The analysis shows how the poem embodies the ideas of Noumenism. Ultimately, the article challenges both current and future artists to consider these philosophical ideas and incorporate them into their own artistic philosophies. It encourages artists to think beyond traditional boundaries and explore new ways of creating art.
Why is it important?
The uniqueness and timeliness of the article lie in its engagement with several key philosophical concepts and their relevance to contemporary art, specifically focusing on the distinction between the noumenal and the phenomenal, as well as the philosophy of Noumenism. Based on the idea that this distinction becomes arbitrary when analyzed through Jacques Derrida's method of deconstruction, the article challenges binary oppositions and hierarchies, and thus introduces a novel perspective on the creation and interpretation of art (i.e., Noumenism). By applying Noumenism to a concrete example, the article makes the discussion more tangible and applicable to the realm of art. It may attract individuals interested in philosophy, particularly those interested in Kantian philosophy, Derrida's deconstruction, and the intersection of philosophy and art. By exploring these concepts and their implications for artistic creation, the article offers a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating discussion. It may appeal to artists, scholars, philosophers, and individuals with a keen interest in the philosophy of art.