engleski

Do Abstract Images Need New Iconology?

The text brings considerations about the need to establish a new iconology that would include non-object images, i.e. those whose meaning cannot be read at the level of comparison with the real world. From today's perspective, the author claims, it seems that the phenomena of abstraction in the visual arts and sciences can only be interpreted through the interaction of techno-imagination and cultural-anthropological conditions. Both of these forces operate independently, but are inextricably intertwined beyond the possibility of human control. Therefore, the author asks the question: "do abstract images need a new iconology?" If we put man against technology, then, as it is claimed, the answer is positive. The author introduces the concept of techno- abstraction, which explains procedures for the production of abstract images based on data collected from the functioning of the human brain, natural phenomena, space exploration, and the like ; here the emphasis is on the concept of production. On the other hand, the author's notion of bio-abstraction refers to the direct attempt of those numerous individuals, mostly artists, who strive to creatively materialize human nature, emotions, desires and fears by all possible technical and personal means. The author argues that technology has contributed to the creation of abstract images as much as the "urge for abstraction" that art history talks about. The author advocates for radically new interpretations of pictures by classical modern artists - interpretations that would cancel the boundaries between techno-abstraction and bio- abstraction, demanding a completely new iconology.

abstraction, visual studies, abstract painting, art history, minimalism

nije evidentirano