Kingston Philosophy Café

There are competing theories about what art is, particularly in the field of the visual arts - can any definition include both the Mona Lisa and Martin Creed's latest work at the Tate? Does it matter? Should we be more concerned with deciding whether artworks are any good? Or is it all hopelessly subjective, just a matter of taste? There will be some pictures of artworks on display during the evening, but do bring along more to add to the conversation. See "Some possible topics" and http://www.e-voice.org.uk/kingstonphilosophycafe/files/view/philosophy-cafe-briefings/IS_IT_ART,_prep.doc for more information, links and suggested reading etc.

This first of 2 discussions on the topic will be led by Marilyn Mason. Participants will then have time to think and read and look at art a bit more before the second discussion, in November, which will kick off with a recap and a dialogue between Marilyn and Barrie Selwyn.

Please come along early to meet up and buy a drink at the Rose bar before the discussion begins and to find your way to our space. We are guests of the Theatre, and need to arrange our meetings around the Theatre programme, so the discussion has to end at 7.30 prompt when the evening's performance begins - but you could adjourn to a neighbouring pub or cafe to continue the conversation.