Art: The Great Eye

Most definitions of art are vague, inconclusive. Italian Philosopher Benedetto Croce murmurs abstrusely of "expression." Spanish Philosopher George Santayana distinguishes art as an extension of utilitarian practices into the realm where utility is forgotten and pleasure begins. Thus, a tribal dance pleading for the gift of rain is not art, whereas a ballet, tripped for its own sake, may be. In Manhattan, last week Sculptor George Gray Barnard defined art as the creations of those who possess the "Great Eye."

He explained his principle in telling how spurious ancient sculpture, currently prevalent (TIME,...

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