Good Intentions. Judging the Art of Encounter

How should we judge the quality of the art of encounter? Through conversations, meals, walks and community activities, visual artists strive for solidarity, commitment, intimacy and friendship. But are good intentions enough? What if artists ignore the distinction between art and morality? How do artists work with moral dispositions?

In Good Intentions, Erik Hagoort addresses all these issues. Hagoort spoke with prominent representatives of the art of encounter in the Netherlands and turned to philosophy for answers. Written in clear and illuminating style, Hagoort examines the relation between art and morality. He demonstrates that the assessment of good intentions can enrich art criticism, provided that we are prepared to forsake the will to pass judgement.

This essay is the first part of the essay series commissioned by the Fonds BKVB.

author: Erik Hagoort
design: Stout/Kramer, Rotterdam
ISBN 90-76936-13-7 / 78 pages / € 15

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Good Intentions. Judging the Art of Encounter

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