The Work of Art and the Self-Reproduction of Art

In: Thesis eleven: critical theory and historical sociology, Heft 12, S. 4-27

Abstract

A theoretical approach to works of art as autopoietic systems within the larger autopoietic system of society is outlined. The continuity of their self-reproduction is ensured through style. The historicization of style, which made it impossible to measure all works of art against a common standard, emerged at the time when art became autopoietic in itself. Style both ensures the production of elements of art & delimits the field in which this takes place. In the present age, style appears to be on the edge of dissolving into fashion, bringing the situation of art in modern society into question. W. H. Stoddard