In modern times the theories on perception undermined this mimesis theory. We all perceive the reality of the world in different ways. The artist’s perception is selective and deformed, influenced by such things as his/her characteristics, the context like culture or modes. Also a ‘realistic’ work of art is just one more interpretation of a reality which in fact is too complex to be ‘copied’. Realism is also a matter of convention and tradition. Sorry Mr. Plato, nice theory, but no longer very useful…..
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