Louis Althusser begins “A Letter on Art” with the problem of the relationship between art and ideology. Art, he claims, is not ideology but, rather, it maintains a “particular and specific relationship with ideology.”
Althusser then recommends an article by Pierre Macherey that will give the reader an idea of the connection between art and knowledge and, therefore, a better understanding of the relationship between art and ideology. Art does not give knowledge of reality, he asserts. Instead, it makes the audience see, perceive, or feel something that “alludes to reality.” Art also makes an audience see or perceive the ideology that stands behind it and sources it. The ideology is separate and distinct from the art, but it may be glimpsed through the art.
These definitions, the author continues, contribute to the solution to the problem of art and science. Where science gives knowledge, art provides perception. Where science focuses on the reality of experience and individuals, art looks at them through the lens of ideology. Art, Althusser further explains, helps an audience focus on conclusions, while science uses a mechanism that starts with premises and draws conclusions. The processes are different.
Indeed, the perception of ideology through art presumes that there is an ideology that can be perceived. Artists, therefore, incorporate their ideologies into their works but in such away that is detached and therefore able to be seen. In a way, they take a step back and present their ideologies from a distance, so their audience can get a broad picture of them.
The author concludes by promoting the need for a knowledge of art. This is not simply an appreciation for art but rather a deep understanding of the mechanisms that produce the effects of art. This will also help people better understand the ideology of art and “to give it its due.”
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