Abstract: The article looks into the mirror motif in V. E. Borisov-Musatov's painting "The Pool", which is one of the masterpieces of Russian painting symbolism. The object of the research is V. E. Borisov-Musatov's painting "The Pool", the subject of the research is the role and functions of the mirror motif in this painting. The manifestations of the three modes of the mirror phenomenon in "The Pool" – the mirror-object, the idea of specular reflection and the image of the mirror are analyzed in detail. The principle of specular reflection is traced in the construction of the composition, in the organization of the linear structure and color system of the painting. Special attention is paid to the problem of the mirror and specular reflection in Musatov's painting techniques. The significance of the mirror phenomenon in the development of the figurative component in Symbolist pieces of art is revealed. The research was based on structural-semiotic and hermeneutic-phenomenological methods. General scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, comparison, generalization were used. The research concluded that the mirror motif plays a structure-forming role in the visual image of "The Pool". The painting of "The Pool" manifests the basic principles of Musatov's painting techniques. The research shows that the mirror phenomenon is the key to revealing the specificity and essence of the Symbolist worldview. In the painting, V. E. Borisov-Musatov created a suggestive visual image that affects the feelings of the viewers. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that the mirror matters in Symbolist painting are involved into the context of global replacement of texts with images as the dominant channel of information transmission. The article is of interest to researchers engaged in the study of symbolism, fine art, visual culture, and image theory.

Keywords: symbolism, worldview, visual image, motif, structure, painting, specular reflection, mirror, culture, art

Abstract: The object of the study is the formation of an image in cinema. S.M. Eisenstein defined cinema as a comparison of two methods: the method of image and the method of figurative formation. The image in the cinema is the "image of becoming". The purpose of the study is to trace the evolution of views on the "image of becoming" from G. E. Lessing to G. V. F. Hegel and S. M. Eisenstein. The author refers to the origins of the formation of the "image of becoming", the teachings of G.E. Lessing and G.V.F. Hegel, who had a great influence on S.M. Eisenstein. G.E. Lessing determined that the methods of studying spatial and temporal arts are different. The method of image is a method inherent in spatial arts, the method of becoming is inherent in poetry as a temporary art. G.E. Lessing gave primacy to the method of becoming. G.V.F. Hegel dealt with a similar problem, he formed the doctrine of the "image of becoming" that arises in time. The research is based on the principle of image birth, developed by S.M. Eisenstein, according to whose teaching, an image is born in a montage. Comparative and semiotic methods are used in the study. The scientific novelty of this study lies in the research of the continuity of the doctrine of the "image of becoming", in the study of S. M. Eisenstein's innovation in this matter. According to S. Eisenstein, cinema is a synthetic, space-time art. It is associated with spatial arts, fine arts, architecture, sculpture, as well as with temporary ones: music, poetry. Cinematography is based on the "Dionysus method", which makes cinema related to other forms of play. According to S. Eisenstein, a movie frame is an assembly complex, it has its own design and composition, which makes it related to spatial types of art, as well as rhythm, which makes it related to the arts. Cinema is a complex system of images and signs. S.M. Eisenstein defines cinema as a field of language. The formation of an image in a movie takes place in time.

Keywords: music, shot, time, space, cinema, Hegel, Lessing, Florensky, Eisenstein, montage

Abstract: The subject of the research is the formation of the theological theory of the image in the church-artistic tradition of Christian art. The aim is to identify the main aspects of the formation of the theory of the image in the pre-Iconoclastic period based on the works of representatives of the Cappadocian school, Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, Maxim the Confessor, John of Damascus, as well as after the approval of icon veneration, reflected in the works of Patriarch Gregory of Constantinople, Theodore the Studite, Simeon the New Theologian, Gregory Palamas and Patriarch Nikephoros. To trace how the influence of theological thought was reflected in Byzantine church art. To determine the specific features of the phenomenon of the iconographic image and to highlight the significance of its dogmatic foundations in religious art. In the study of the works of Byzantine theologians, historical and cultural analysis was used, which allowed a more holistic view of the worldview of the era in which they created, and the ideas they defended. The study allows us to conclude that for the defenders of icon worship, the "soil" was prepared by the great theologians of the Cappadocian school, who in turn converted and reinterpreted the Neoplatonic teachings of Plotinus, Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, who transformed their ideas into a christocentric doctrine of salvation. The dogmatic ideas of the theologians influenced the change of the ancient art form, giving it a new content, which, in turn, can become an important criterion that helps to identify and evaluate genuine spirituality in the works of church art. The study of the theological theory of the image is an important element in determining the fidelity of the artistic transmission of the essence of the creed and understanding of the sacred content of medieval temple painting, as well as a necessary reference point for modern icon painters, allowing them to choose in their work a system of expressive means corresponding to theological dogmas.

Keywords: iconoclastic disputes, iconographic canon, transformed matter, aesthetics of light, the problem of figurativeness, theological dogma, temple painting, image theory, symbolic realism, the spiritualistic content of the image

Abstract: Philipp Otto Runge and Caspar David Friedrich, well known Romantic painters, were not only notable masters of the brush but also theorticians of art. The present essay is devoted to an analysis of their theories. Its novelty consists in the fact that it analyzes for the first time the theoretical views that are expressed in the texts of both artists. Runge’s charactertistic feature is a pantheistic experience of God. According to him, it must be expressed in art. He proposes his own dialectic of being, which essentially consists of development, struggle, and mutual annihilation of opposite elements at the moment of achieving perfection. It is precisely this dialectic that, according to him, forms the foundation of art, where he sees an opposition between feeling and reason. Runge pays special attention to the notion of the “spirit of art,” which appears on the basis of the feeling of mutual connection between the human being and the universe, as well as of the artist’s foresentiment of God. In its foundation, art is symbolic and therefore close to religion. The spirit of art manifests itself in what one can call the music, poetry, or symbolism of a work of art. In art, Friedrich sees the spiritual foundation of the world. He distinguishes between skill and “spirituality” in it. According to him, one can master the skill, but one inherits spirituality from birth, and few artists possess it. As a Romantic landscape artist, he opposed illusionism in painting. He considered the creative element in art, which is born in the artist’s inner world, as pivotal. Feeling plays the principal role in art. For this reason Friedrich foregrounds the uncon-scious, although he is convinced that reason and skill must actively participate in the creative process as well. Friedrich preferred winter, foggy, and crepuscular landscapes, which expressed Romantic moods well.

Keywords: symbolism in art, spirituality, spirit of art, landscape, painting, Romantic aesthetics, Romanticism, Friedrich, Runge, allegorism

Abstract: The author of the work raises the question of the role of humor in the context of David Lynch's work. The author argues that the director's humor is one of the few conventional director's tools that can be categorized and studied in detail. The author explains this degree of “simplicity” of the director’s humor phenomenon by the author’s conscious strategy of introducing “known” elements into the works to establish communication with the viewer and their subsequent deconstruction to break the automatic perception and create a situation of “anxious viewing”. The author also explains the emergence of a situation of "anxiety" in Lynch's works by the fact that in the process of deconstruction the director mixes various discourses, connecting "funny" and "creepy", "known" and "unknown", "sublime" and "base". The key thesis of the work is the idea that humor, as Lynch's directorial tool, is used not only to entertain the audience or relieve them after dark scenes, but also to challenge their expectations, question classical narratives and explore taboo aspects of the human being experience. The object of the study is the cinema of David Lynch: films, series and short films of the director. The subject of the research is the phenomenon of humor in the context of David Lynch's creativity. The purpose of the work is to answer the question of how humor contributes to the processes of demythologizing a number of phenomena in American culture, deconstructing classic Hollywood narratives in the director's films and creating a sense of "anxiety" in the viewer. The novelty of the study lies in the conclusion of humor in a separate category and its separation from other strategies of the director: hyper-narratives, the process of absurdization of screen action, postmodern intertextuality.

Keywords: Black comedy, Camp, Irony, Uncanny, defamiliarization, Counternarrative Structures, deconstruction, Humor, David Lynch, Postmodernism

Abstract: “Vesy” magazine has become an extremely important milestone on the path of self–knowledge of Russian symbolism - its pages have captured the final design of the main principles and methods of this literary and cultural movement. However, the cultural discourse on the pages of the magazine, despite popular belief, was not homogeneous and static. Having marked the strengthening of symbolism as an important phenomenon in art and public life, “Vesy” magazine at the same time became a platform for discussions about the crisis of symbolism that was brewing at the beginning of the XX century, reflecting completely different stages of the development of this trend. The subject of this research is the journalistic materials published on the pages of “Vesy”, the object of the work was the evolution of the ideas of symbolism reflected in selected materials. With the help of discourse analysis, it became possible to study the most important stages of the development of symbolist discourse, which is the purpose of this work. The analysis of the journalistic materials of the magazine showed that “Vesy” failed to remain within its original ideological and aesthetic positions: contrary to traditional ideas, symbolism sought to live its own time, and during the period of social upheaval, its ideas were certainly developed. The results obtained can contribute to the theoretical knowledge about the symbolist journalism, “Vesy” magazine, as well as the evolution of the ideas of symbolism.

Keywords: the evolution of the ideas of symbolism, symbolism crisis, symbolist manifestos, aesthetic manifestos, symbolist discourse, Silver age, symbolist magazines, symbolist journalism, Vesy magazine, symbolism

Abstract: The article discusses such aspects of the topic as the concept of stylization and transformation, the relationship of stylization with the concept of style in fine art, as well as its impact on the perception of an artistic image. The question of visual and emotional perception is touched upon, which are directly influenced by a stylized artistic image. The subject of the article is the analysis of stylization methods and techniques that work on the perception of an artistic image. The aim of the research is to comprehend the ways and techniques of stylization of the depicted object, through artistic means of expression, which in the perceived content are able to create a more emotional and expressive artistic image. Depending on the degree of transformation of the surrounding reality, the author identified such stylization methods as the iconic method, the geometric method, symbol-based stylization and the abstract method of stylization. Based on a specific artistic material, the analysis made it possible to identify the peculiarities of the perception of an artistic image with each method of stylization. Stylization techniques that work on the perception of the viewer, due to the achievement of greater expressiveness of the artistic image, are determined. The author emphasizes the need to use stylization and transformation to endow an artistic image with increased expression and originality, which in the structure of an artistic work are the main means of reflecting an artistic idea and an integral part in the performance of the set compositional tasks.

Keywords: stylization techniques, stylization methods, perception, shape, simplification, generalization, transformation, stylization, visual art, artistic image

Abstract: The article is devoted to the interaction and transformation of a mythological, mystical creature (cat) with a female image in Japanese painting. The subject of the study is the images of cats and women on scrolls and engravings of the XVIII-XX centuries. Attention is focused on the modern mythological aspect of Japanese culture. The aesthetic canons of beauty perception in the context of the national culture of Japan, based on Shintoism and Buddhism, are emphasized. Comparative historical and iconographic research methods were used in the analysis of cultural, philosophical and art-historical scientific materials. The relevance of the topic is due to the revival of interest in the mythological heritage of Japan, the transformation of mythological images and their feminization in modern popular culture. The novelty of the research lies in the comparative analysis of female images and mythological images of cats in Japanese classical painting and modern kawaii culture, based on the philosophical and aesthetic traditions of Japan. The novelty of the research lies in the comparative analysis of female images and mythological images of cats in Japanese classical painting and modern kawaii culture, based on the philosophical and aesthetic traditions of Japan. An attempt is made to compare the mythological images of cats and female images in both traditional and modern artistic images. It is concluded that national traditions and mentality are of great importance for the evaluation of Japanese mythological images, despite the historical period of time. Of particular importance is the perception of female images in kawaii, due to the aesthetic and religious foundations of Japanese society, given that the myth is firmly embedded in popular culture. It is emphasized that the kawaii culture is an independent aesthetic phenomenon.

Keywords: artistic images, nekomata, bakeneko, woman, cat, ukiyo-e, painting, kawai, Japanese mythology, popular culture

Abstract: Under the influence of French avant-garde filmmakers who created the creative method of "montage film", at the beginning of the twentieth century, Soviet director Sergei Eisenstein developed a technique called "intelligent editing". Later, the famous film director Andrei Tarkovsky constructed the inner truth of the film with the help of poetic expression, thereby giving it a unique poetic aesthetic. This form of filmmaking has had a profound impact on Russian animated cinema. This article is devoted to the study of the specifics of Russian animation on the example of paintings by Yuri Norstein, in particular, the analysis of the humanistic spirit and poetic aesthetics. Special attention is paid in the article to the symbolism of the cinematic images of the works of Yu. Norstein and the peculiarities of the reflection of reality in animation. The main conclusion of this study : in contrast to Hollywood animation with the shocking creation of visual meanings, in Russian animated works, a calm narrative with symbolic meaning attached to details gradually rises to the level of philosophical comprehension. Yuri Norstein's paintings are full of symbols and metaphors that evoke various associations in the audience and give free rein to their imagination. The content of cartoon paintings is characterized by depth and a multilevel system of meanings embodying the Russian national culture and the picture of the world. The combination of realistic traditions with advanced techniques distinguishes the director's work from American animation.

Keywords: realism, metaphor, image, symbolism, soviet art, humanistic spirit, poetic aesthetics, Yuri Norstein, animation, poetic cinema

Abstract: This article analyzes the activity of the Art Nouveau artists of the late XIX – early XX centuries, and the reception of their works. The subject of this research is the works of both female and male artists, and their interinfluence. The article touches upon the topic of genders in art, difficulties of promoting the “female perspective” in the period of Art Nouveau. The article employs the comparative-historical, involving scientific materials on culturology, philosophy and art history; sociocultural approach towards historical events in the establishment of Art Nouveau. The relevance of this topic is substantiated by heightened interest to studying the phenomenon of Art Nouveau and the role of women in its formation. The novelty of this research consists in attempt to determine the specificity of female principle in Art Nouveau style, both as an artistic image that holds the leading place therein, and in the image of women artists who tried to implement their vision of female image in the art object. The conclusion is made that despite the shift in the worldview orientations and artistic paradigms of this period, women artists were experiencing major difficulties. The formation of the Art Nouveau style vividly manifested the features of the “new woman” in the works of women artists, emphasizing their uniqueness and artistic peculiarities. It is determined that the comprehension of multifacetedness of Art Nouveau style was greatly affected by women artists, whose works are still relevant today.

Keywords: tortuosity of lines, beauty, femininity, female artist, visual art, symbolism, Art Nouveau, decorative effect, image, erotica

Abstract: This article formulates the task of constructing a new concept of art that corresponds with the challenges of time and the transformed artistic practice. The author aims to solve the problem relevant to his time, which is similar to the problem solved by Aristotle in the context of creating the “Poetics”. The theoretical provisions of the new concept are preceded by reconstruction of the work of the prominent Israeli writer Meir Shalev and the creators of the American TV series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”. These examples demonstrate that although these works describe the events of everyday life, the latter are taken not as the facts typical for cognition, but are being transformed for the construction of artistic reality. Analysis is conducted on the techniques and expressive means used in creating the artistic reality. The hypothesis is advances that the comprehension of the nuances of artistic reality requires the analysis of artistic communication, as well as conceptualizations of art. Within the framework of artistic communication, the author examines the position, motives and activity of the writer and the audience. It is assumed that on the one hand, they live through their problems in the artistic form and create their works (writer, artist), or they enter the artistic reality and live through its events (reader, viewer). All these statements are supported by the results of the research of the genesis of art conducted by the author. In conclusion, the author lists the ground plan of the new concept of art, namely the introduction.

Keywords: conceptualization, work, problems, communication, hero, author, art, reconstruction, interpretation, reality

Abstract: This article analyzes the activity of female artists and the problems of their relationships in the society during the period of Viennese Art Nouveau of the late XIX – early XX centuries. The subject of this research is the works of female artists of the Vienna Secession and the materials of the Belvedere art exhibitions. It is noted that the problem of gender relationship during the period of Viennese Art Nouveau was given considerable attention; the cultural and artistic creativity were viewed from the perspective of the impact of this problem upon the mentality and minds of the society. The relevance of the selected topic is substantiated by the heightened interest in studying the specificity of the phenomenon of Viennese Art Nouveau and the role of woman in its formation. The novelty of this research lies in the attempt to determine the specificity of the impact of female beginning upon the culture of Viennese Art Nouveau, both as an artistic image that is the centerpiece, and in the image of female artists who supported its development. The conclusion is made that despite the shift in worldview orientations and artistic paradigms fin-de-siècle, the problem of gender relationship and apparent competition between female and artists for their position remained strongly pronounced. The author determines the considerable impact of female artists (many of whom were of Jewish descent immigrated or deceased during the World War II) upon comprehension of the phenomenon of Viennese Art Nouveau.

Keywords: art, female image, the relationship of the sexes, creativity, viennese art nouveau, women artists, Secession, painting, new forms, culture

Abstract: This article explores the classical terms and concepts of cultural anthropology, which have found practical application in the performances, paratheatrical experiments and actions of the Polish experimental stage director Jerzy Grotowski (1933–1999) and collectives of the modern anthropological theater that continue the pursuits of Grotowski of the late XX century. The methods and terms of cultural (social) anthropology by A. van Gennep, V. Turner, M. Eliade, B. Malinowski and structural anthropology by C. Levi-Strauss give a better perspective on the specific terminological apparatus of Grotowski, unique practical discoveries of his works, and conceptual basis of theatrical anthropology as one of the paramount phenomena in the development of modern art. This article is first to discuss the problems of the emergence and formation of anthropological methodology as the framework for creating a scientific apparatus for understanding ritual-theatrical forms, as well as practical tool for artistic expression in the theatrical and paratheatrical experiments. Based on the fundamental works of the school of cultural anthropology, the author reveals the key terms of modern anthropological theater. As a result of studying the methods and approaches of cultural anthropology, the author determines the new unique technique of the modern Polish theater ensembles based not on the reconstruction of theatrical forms of the past, but rather reactualization of the mythological structures in the process of creating ritual-theatrical action.

Keywords: collective unconscious, corporal techniques, reactualization of the myth, participating viewer, paratheatrical research, ritual, anthropological theatre, cultural anthropology, rites of passage, ritual and theatrical action

Abstract: This article analyzes female images in Chinese and Japanese painting (Bijin-ga). The subject of this research is the depiction of Chinese beautiful women on the scrolls of the X – XVII centuries and Japanese woodblock printing of the XVII – XIX centuries. Attention is given to the works of modern artists. It is noted that the aesthetic ideals are oriented towards the perception of beauty in the context of national culture of China and Japan, which undergo changes in each era, nurtured by Buddhism, Shintoism, Taoism and Confucianism, which contributed to the development of female image and symbolic sound. The fact that the worldview orientation towards women and their status in the Far Eastern society faded away defines the relevance of the selected topic. The novelty of lies in the comparative analysis of philosophical-aesthetic traditions of Chinese and Japanese painting, reflected in female images in the historical development, with the emphasis on its modern development. The conclusion is made that the assessment of female image in Chinese and Japanese art requires taking into account the national mentality, spiritual traditions, and interinfluence of cultures. The perception of the changing image of women in society plays a special role. It is determined that the depiction of women in clothes and face paint that conceals their body shape and facial emotions, deprive a woman of her individuality and lower her social status. Such trend remains in the contemporary art of these countries. Up until now, female images resemble the symbolism of depiction, closeness to nature, interweaving of external and internal content substantiated by the aesthetic, ethical and philosophical saturation of painting, indicating the uniqueness of each culture and its national heritage.

Keywords: harmony, face, symbolism, image, beauty, nature, Taoism, buddhism, etiquette, painting

Abstract: This article reveals the philosophical grounds of the aesthetics of color, analyzes the correlation between the structures of philosophical and artistic comprehension of coloristics. Interaction of philosophy and art as the forms of cultural identity manifests in the sphere of intellectual understanding of the perception of color and its semantics in painting. In the hidden logic of contemplation of color, can be traced the outlines of the problematic of transcendental and intelligible in art conditions for the aesthetic approach towards chromatic space. Color creates the visual beauty, thus it is apparent why the aesthetic knowledge seeks to clarify to which extent we can assess the experience of color – the result of coloration of light. The art itself creates the so-called color ontology of the world. First the first time, the beauty of color and its perception are analyzed in the context of correlation between art and transcendental traditions of philosophizing  (Descartes, Kant, early Husserl –  his work “The Philosophy of Arithmetic”) that allows matching the key to a new interpretation of the tradition of color. Determination of its meaning requires comparing history and structure of the philosophical and artistic metaphor of color. It is demonstrated that the phenomenon of color is of crucial significance for the aesthetics, as it implies not only comprehension of the problem of correlation between nature and art, but also cognition of the beauty of color, its universal value for all forms of art, profound structures of perception of coloristic phenomena, picturesque unveiling of the color harmony of the painting.

Keywords: Rilke, Husserl, Kant, Descartes, color, painting, art, philosophy, aesthetics, Kandinsky

Abstract: This article analyzes female principle reflected in the images of goddesses of Japanese and Chinese mythology associated with the solar cult and light symbolism. An attempt is made to trace the role of female principle in the mythological phenomenon of Sky and its connection with Earth. The subject of this research is the Japanese and Chinese myths and legends, iconographic images of goddesses and their resemblance in foxes (Kitsune) in the religious painting of the XIII – early XX centuries. In the course of this work, the author applies comparative-historical and iconographic methods of research that lean on scientific materials dedicated to philosophy, culturology and art history. The relevance of the selected topic is substantiated by the fact that in globalizing world, the countries of the Far East are more capable of retaining ideological paradigms and preserving their national cultural identity due to traditionalism and spiritual consciousness. The novelty of this work consists in examination based on the iconographic material and mythological themes of solar manifestations of goddesses as demonstration of the energy of female principle and its reflection in the phenomenon of Sky – Earth connection. The conclusion is made that for assessing Japanese and Chinese art, it is essential to consider multicultural interaction of these countries founded on the the harmony of existence of human nature. The goddesses of Sun, Moon and Earth seek to communicate with the Sky, as in particular the autochthonous deity Inari through their intermediaries, the foxes. The sun and moon goddesses and Earth goddesses seek communication with the Sky, as the autochthonous deity Inari through their mediators – foxes. The female principle, resembled in femininity of divine foxes, is described as the endless struggle for immortality and opportunity to be in Heaven surrounded by the steam light and reason. The light saturation of female images contributes to their spirituality.

Keywords: mythology, nature, Heaven, feminine, light symbolism, taoism, shintoism, buddhism, spirituality, kitsune

Abstract: This article analyzes the female beginning reflected in the Buddhist art of thangka, and emphasizes its specificity in comparison with the Orthodox icon. The author examines symbolism of the key visual elements that form iconography of female characters and their color solution, as well as analyzes the symbolism of light in thangka painting and painting of icons. In drawing parallels between light symbolism of a female image in both types of religious paintings, the author determines their definite similarity in perception of light as a divine beginning of enlightened mind. The subject of this study is the Tibetan thangka and the Orthodox icon, viewed in the context of evolution of the female divine image within the chronological framework of the XV – XVII centuries. The relevance is substantiated by the growing interest of various experts to the religious painting thangka. In examination of sacred images of Buddhist thangkas and Orthodox icons were applied the comparative-historical and iconographic methods that lean on philosophical, culturological and art scientific materials. The novelty consists in the fact that based comparative analysis of the material of Tibetan thangkas and Orthodox icons, the author explores the traditions of depicting light manifestations of sacred images of women. Iconographic plot traces the formation of light and its role in creation of the female guise of wisdom. The conclusion is made that for assessing the Tibetan Buddhist art of thangka and Orthodox icon it is necessary to grasp the essence of female beginning and significance of the symbolism of light that indicates the aspect of wisdom and love on the path of spiritual growth. 

Keywords: iconography, thangka, Sophia, Orthodoxy, Buddhism, light, wisdom, feminine, symbolism, spirituality

Abstract: This research is dedicated to examination of a specific role of landscape in symbolism. Based on comprehensive analysis of the works of symbolists and artists of their circle – Segantini, Böcklin, Gauguin, Nesterov, Čiurlionis, the author attempts to determine the characteristic features of using the images of nature in the overall system of pictorial artistic-aesthetic expression. Special attention is paid to the problem of inscription of human figures into landscape, as in doing so many symbolists and artists of their circle were bringing the landscape to life, forming a special creative space. Landscape of symbolists is viewed as a peculiar animated space that carries a mediating role between the visually palpable images and indescribable pleroma of metaphysical being. Such approach to symbolism is considered innovative. In the course of this research, it is demonstrated that special artistic space as a carrier of symbolic meanings or a spirit of symbolism in painting emerges in each painters a set of artistic means of expression characteristic only to their works. At the same time, some symbolists view the unreachable in external forms of visible nature by focusing attention of the opposition of earth and sky, life and death, human and divine beginning, reality and its mythological grounds. Some symbolists create the world of practically abstract and musically accented color forms and graphic solutions. While others paint landscape imbued with tranquility, tenderness and picturesque hymns of the Creator. In general, symbolic landscape leans towards a fairly vivid philosophical aspect.

Keywords: composition, spirituality, metaphysics of art, aesthetics, symbolism, painting, landscape, color form, Segantini, Boeklin

Abstract: The subject of this research is the fundamental aesthetic problematic in the symbolist philosophy of art of André Gide. The author examines such mainstream themes as the concept of artistic symbol, categories of the beautiful, tragic and heroic, interrelation of art and nature, specificity of theatrical aesthetics. In his works, Gide brings to life the ideas of subjective, solipsistic symbolism, when symbol ingratiates with a hieroglyph that depicts inner world of the artist in a creative form, his subjective experiences, dreams and reverie, while the external sensible world is interpreted as illusory, appears as combination of senses, or is left as side as nonexistent. The main conclusion of the conducted study consists in a statements that in the period of symbolism André Gide was sure that illusory character was extraneous to art. Disregarding the external, art must refer to the profound truth, heroic beginning of human personality. Emphasis is made on infiltration into the spheres of esoteric, mystical and spiritual. The article analyses André Gide’s “Treatise on Narcissus (The Theory of Symbol”), in which such worldview found its programmatic expression.

Keywords: literature, heroic, tragic, high, beauty, intuition, symbol, philosophy of art, aesthetics, theatre

Abstract: The goal of this works consists in tracing the dynamics of interrelation of the subject of irony with its object on the example of such cultural phenomena as Camp, New Sincerity and post-irony. The choice of namely these types of perception, associated with irony, is motivated by the fact that such sequence demonstrates the stage-by-stage change of the optics of an artistic subject. The transformation of structure of ironic actions in painter’s consciousness, in which the natural pattern begins to prevail over the critical, although not fully absorbing it, is evident within the highlighted range. Research methodology is based on the aesthetic-theoretical approach and comparative-historical method, as well refers to illustrative material of fiction literature, particularly the authors whose works reflect the mentioned in the title of the article artistic strategies. The novelty lies in the thesis that naturalness and irony are considered the elements of the uniform structure of perception, which leads to determination of the important patterns in metamorphoses of the ironic optics. The article demonstrates how each of the listed approaches to irony interacts with its artistic resources, which constitute the ironic method and reveal the specificity of emotional relationship of the ironist with the apprehended ideas and objects of reality. It is established that the relevance of naïve aspect of aesthetic irony correlates with the need of an artistic subject to reconsider and renew the ironic method without resorting to non-reflective naivety. The author highlights that the enlightened naivety, associated with the aforementioned types of ironic sensibility, manifests not as much as the object of irony, but as its constituent element, which allows the subject to express the intentions opposite to irony.

Keywords: New sincerity, kitsch, Camp, naivety, irony, postmodernism, art, aesthetics, metamodernism, postirony

Abstract: The subject of the research is transformations of color perception and color environment caused by the influence of current epistem. The research hypothesis is that changes in the deeper structures of cogitation affect perception and use of color and consequently design. Design is viewed by modernists as a social practice and cultural phenomenon which determines the main difference of color and its functions as a sign in pre-design and modern worls. In her research Pankratova has used the method of knowledge archeology offered by Michel Fouсault. Being applied to design, this method implies analysis of structural elements of the design discourse, color being one of such elements.  The main conclusion of the research is that modern designers use color as a simulacrum sign. Presently, there are three basic characteristics of color whichi are color shade, intensity and lightness that describe color as something flat or part of the material world. The pre-design paradigm perceives color as eidos or part of the transcendental world. The main characteristics of color eidos are three-dimensionality, transparency, shine and analogousness. The main distinguished feature of color in the pre-design world is additional dimension. Today color is viewed and used in design as a two-dimensional surface that do not refer to any other referent. When choosing particular color, modern designers take functionality as guide and their choice of color is rather accidental. 

Keywords: transcendental, epistem, simulacrum, eidos, art Nouveau, postmodern, modernism, color, Design, sign

Abstract: The subject of the study is the formation of a system of canon-images in informal Russian art on the example of works of installation and near-installation nature. The author emphasizes that the design of the given symbolism took place against the background of the fact that the official style did not imply any deviation from the generally accepted canon. By canon are meant images which are important for artists due to the diverse cultural contexts of Soviet and post-Soviet Russia. Works by E. Lissitzky, Y. Vasilyev-Mon, A. Brusilovsky, M. Roginsky, V. Yankilevsky, I. Nakhova, I. Kabakov, V. Komar, and A. Melamid are given as examples. These authors made a huge contribution to the development of the Russian installation art which is needed and relevant today. In the article, the method of comparative analysis is used, as it most fully helped to develop a theme. The main conclusion of the conducted research is the fact that the formation of the art installation in Russia happened in the informal environment because of the fact that in the USSR existed a ban on a variety of modernist practices. Due to this fact, motives and canon-images, iconic to the modern Russian art, managed to take shape. 

Keywords: search, structure, canon, conceptual art, quotation, cliché, installation art, style, avant-garde, manner

Abstract: In her article Belova analyzes the aesthetical value of nature, in particular, the role of flowers in European and Japanese art of the XVth - early XXth century. The researcher focuses on symbolism of flowers, general expressive patterns that symbolise the nature's circle and transience of flowers in the world as well as their philosophical, religious and mystical meaning. The subject of the research is blue flowers viewed by the author as part of the developing symbolism and metaphoric message in European and Japanese fine arts of the XVth - early Xxth century. In her research Belova has use comparative and iconological research methods based on previously published philosophical, cultural and historical researches. The research rationale is explained by the growing cultural contacts between Eastern countries, particulary Japan, and Europe, and the intention of both cultures to keep their national specific features. The author of the article attempts to compare European and Japanese fine arts, to describe symbolism of flowers, its aesthetical meaning and allegorical message, to emphasize the nature of symbolic images of blue flowers. The researcher makes the following conclusion: religious and mystical features are more typical for European painting while Japanese painting puts artistic expression of feelings above religion. This is expressed in the aesthetical perception of the colour palette.  

Keywords: Buddhism, Japanese painting, impressionism, blue, iris, symbolism, religious orientation, beauty, perfection, flower

Abstract: The research focuses on the analysis of symbolist painting to identify its aesthetic features that can be expressed by the metaphorical concept of "the spirit of symbolism". The task is set based on the analysis of the most characteristic for the symbolism of specific works of art to approach the verbal description of this concept, its introduction into the scientific tools of aesthetic analysis of art. By studying the artistic and aesthetic means of expression in the works of Rossetti, Burne-Jones, Puvis de Chavannes, Borisov-Musatov, Segantini revealed a set of characteristics that can describe the spirit of symbolism in a certain approximation. The comparative method based on art criticism, philosophical and aesthetic approaches to specific paintings is used as a methodological setting. In this study, mainly the theme of expression in painting the symbolist understanding of the myths of the Eternal Feminine is taken out of the main thematic lines of the art of symbolism. This analysis is innovative, first used in domestic and foreign science. The plasticity of images, the refined linear rhythms, a lighter color, the statuesque quality of the figures, self-absorption and supernaturality of images, melancholic sadness, emphatically perfect and as if detached from the earthly world the beauty of female characters, far from the sensual materiality, etc. refer to the specific characteristics of the symbolist expression of this thematic line. In painting, all this leads symbolists and artists of their circle to the here and now phenomenon of the quantum of metaphysical reality, which can be defined as the "spirit of symbolism".

Keywords: Rossetti, colour, composition, form, aesthetics, image, symbol, painting, Segantini, Burne-Jones

Abstract: In her research Tretyakova compares two similar yet different aesthetic categories that have got widespread use in the culture of consumption: Western brave Glamour and Japanese grotesque Kawaii. The aim of the research is to outline differences in these categories that are caused by their regional specifics. Such comparative analysis allows to define national specifics of Russian design in terms of the culture of consumption. Aesthetics of both Glamour and Kawaii have got an advertising component: glamour is a simulacrum of beauty that presents the charm of luxury, ideal appearance, and success, and contemporary Kawaii is a simulacrum of 'cuteness' that presents the charm of love and tenderness and imperfect or immature beauty. Both aesthetics have similar functions in contemporary culture of consumption as the basis of advertising myths about attractiveness. While glamourization is more typical for the West, Japan is more appealing to Kawaii. This is caused by cross-cultural differences. The research is based on the analysis of a famous essay In Praise of Shadows written by a Japanese writer Jun'ichiro Tanizaki (1886–1965) in 1934 where he called Western aesthetics as 'aesthetics of light' and Japanese aesthetics as 'aesthetics of shadow'. Using shine and brilliance as the most important expressive means, glamour presents the Western 'aesthetics of light'. Contemporary aesthetics of Kawaii relates to the traditional Japanese 'aesthetics of shadow' and, first of all, to the category of iki that unites a challenge and submission, luxury and mildness. In aesthetics of Kawaii sumbission presents child-like proportions, faintness and etc. which can verge on challenge. 

Keywords: Aesthetics of Light, consamption, regional design, Jun'ichiro Tanizaki, identity, kawaii, glamour, Aesthetics of Shadow, Japanese Aesthetics, Beauty

Abstract: This article gives an insight into the main changes in architecture and describes these changes from the aesthetical and philosophical points of view. Virtual space allows an architect to master new options and opportunities of marketing and designing and to work with new materials. This changes both the places of an artist and recepient. These changes cause a new interpretation of classical themes both from the theoretical and aesthetical points of view. This, in its turn, creates a number of problems needed to be solved. In her research Igumnova applies the comparative method to work with the theoretical corpus and the method of visual analysis to define aesthetic particularities of digital architecture. Architecture becomes a dynamic structure at all levels, eliminating all customary borders of static objects and thus changing the urban space. This is the 'must' for a dynamically developing society. In this way, the architectural environment creates a request for a thinking architect who highly adepts at new computer programs and technologies. 

Keywords: modern architecture, form, virtual reality, city, digital culture, architecture, aesthetics, philosophy, urbanistics, aesthetic perception

Abstract: Although there are many researches concerning the Beauty, as known in Europe as well as Russia aesthetic categories are traditionally abstract and consequently not applicable in practical use for example in design. Therefore, the author of this research offers to find concrete categories of traditional aesthetics and then incarnate it in objects. As an example of this approach, he takes a work of Japanese philosopher Shuzo Kuki (1888–1941) “The Structure of Iki [Beauty]” and basing on it, he offers concrete incarnation of such Russian aesthetics category as Toska [Melancholy]. Using interpretation of Toska by Nikolay Berdyaev (1874–1948) the author formulates “Structure of Toska” and extends Toska to arts defining melancholic beauty of Toska in ornaments and colors. The author concludes that melancholic beauty of Toska in our culture is connected not only with the visible void but also with an ornament, which expresses our spiritual aspirations and therefore becomes an essential part of the Beauty in Russia.

Keywords: Shuzo Kuki, beauty of toska, void, ornament, image, toska, iki, Russian Aesthetics, Japanese Aesthetics, Berdyaev

Abstract: In her research Volodina suggests to develop a conceptual framework that would allow to see artwork and the process of artwork perception in a new light. The subject of the research is paintings by Alexander Arefjev and artists from his circle. Instead of just giving a descriptive characteristic of their paintings, the author tries to use their artwork to think of specific features of the artistic space and subjective perception thereof. Vododina pays special attention to such artistic features as flatness and density of plans which analysis allows to expand the framework of the philosophical definition of 'surface'. The author appeals to the conceptual framework offered by Gilles Deleuze, in particular, she uses his definition of the haptic vision as well as other terms to study a special type of vision demonstrated by the artwork of Ariefjev's circle. The result of the research is the author's description of special physics typical for that kind of space, and conceptualisation of a dynamic, non-identical to itself nomadic subjectivity created in the process of feeling. Thus, it is fair to say that art neither reproduces nor depicts the known but creates conditions for the appearance of something ontologically new in each sensation. Within the framework of this approach, art is viewed extensively as the sphere of extrasubjective affectivity which allows to define mechanics of the meaning-creating process and fulfil the potential of art as an instrument of philosophical immanence.

Keywords: haptic, border, disjunctive synthesis, immanence, aesthetics, Arefjev, Deleuze, subjectivity, Arefjev's circle, art

Abstract: The subject of the article is surrealism as one of the brightest art movement of the twentieth century. In his research Petrov considers the development and basic aesthetic patterns of surrealism especially the connection between actualized images and substantive aspects of Freud's theory, the theory of sleep and theory of the lack of reality itself. As an example, the researcher analyzes Dali's paintings, A. Breton's, L. Aragon's and K. Firing's poems, movies by L. Bunuel, theatrical performances by E. Satie and J. Cocteau. The researcher attempts to cover the substantive world of surrealism as an integral phenomenon as well as to discover philosophical grounds of surrealism based on historical and social functions of those times. The integral approach to the phenomenon of surrealism as an important stylistic trend of the 20th century in general (without 'limiting' it to 1920  1930s providing that surrealism has been extended up to our days) proves an important role and unique nature of surrealism in a wide range of stylistic trends and movements. 

Keywords: innovations, еpatage, Dali, sleep, aesthetics, artistic style, art history, Freud, reality, surrealism

Abstract: In this research Feschenko pays special attention to specific features of icon-painting images as part of researching spiritual and creative transformations in the history of icon-paining and deviations from the canonical painting tradition. Based on the objectives of the research, the author presents a thesis that all changes in the ideological structure of art in a sacral space of a temple inevitably leads to the general decline. According to the author, the integrity of the temple organisation as it was formed in Byzantine Empire and oriented at the unity of all its elements including architecture, painting, decorations and the liturgical process started to fail by the second half of the 19th century. Successive integration of the secular into the religious art distorted the essential mission of the church which made paintings be more illustrative and eclectical and weakened religious spirits in the society.

Keywords: technique of integral perception of sacred image, transformed matter, the theory of reflection, symbolism of content of an image, aesthetics of light, specificity of icon-painting images, Old Russian religious art, the Byzantian heritage, synergetic interaction, the living tradition of the Church

Abstract: In his article Rozin examines the first great work by Lev Vygotsky in which the founder of Soviet psychology stated that it is possible to reach to aesthetic (artistic) experience only indirectly, in particular, through the analysis of the art form. Rozin analyzes the methodological approaches which he used in his research (naturalistic and structuralistic) and interprets an art form as some kind of a trap that catches a reader or audience trying to overcome contradictions of building an art form. The author compares Lev Vygotsky's concept of 'art as the machine for developing psyche' with Mikhail Bakhtin's concept of 'life in art'. In his research Rozin has used the methodology of comparative analysis, raises a number of questions and offers a new reconstruction of 'Psychology of Art' as well as discusses peculiarities of psychological research and science. As a result, the author demonstrates that Vygotsky's concept of art was in many ways conditioned by Marxist and structuralistic methodologies as well as the task to develop a new human using artistic means. Being focused on the problem of human development, Vygotsky interpreted art as the machine for developing the mental world and ignored the importance of art as a life style.     

Keywords: psychology, science, methodology, understanding, interpretation, reconstruction, life, art, form, conflict

Abstract: In his article Rozin examines the first great work by Lev Vygotsky in which the founder of Soviet psychology stated that it is possible to reach to aesthetic (artistic) experience only indirectly, in particular, through the analysis of the art form. Rozin analyzes the methodological approaches which he used in his research (naturalistic and structuralistic) and interprets an art form as some kind of a trap that catches a reader or audience trying to overcome contradictions of building an art form. The author compares Lev Vygotsky's concept of 'art as the machine for developing psyche' with Mikhail Bakhtin's concept of 'life in art'. In his research Rozin has used the methodology of comparative analysis, raises a number of questions and offers a new reconstruction of 'Psychology of Art' as well as discusses peculiarities of psychological research and science. As a result, the author demonstrates that Vygotsky's concept of art was in many ways conditioned by Marxist and structuralistic methodologies as well as the task to develop a new human using artistic means. Being focused on the problem of human development, Vygotsky interpreted art as the machine for developing the mental world and ignored the importance of art as a life style.     

Keywords: psychology, science, methodology, understanding, interpretation, reconstruction, life, art, form, conflict

Abstract: The subject of the research is numerous ready-mades of a famous French Dadaist Marcel Duchamp. In his research Petrov onsiders the origin of a new art form (readymade) in line with innovative trends of the early XXth century when all the known substantial bases of culture were carelessly denied. There were many reasons for that: dramatic changes in the public consciousness, permissibility of literally all sins, "transition" to the full freedom of thought and freedom of expression, and, of course, overall instability of the historical situation which included an abundance of revolutions, wars, changes of territories and political experimentations. The author of the article presents a comprehensive approach to the phenomenon studied (ready-mades of Duchamp) where their genesis, perception and prolonged action become especially important topics. The novelty of the research is caused by the fact that there are no researches of the aesthetic fetures and anti-aesthetic provocations of Duchamp's ready-mades in culture and cultural studies. The author of the article raises a naturally-determined question about the aesthetic significance of such experiments (as examples the author analyzes such famous ready-mades as "Fountain," "Bicycle Wheel", and "Bottle Rack") and describes their role in the development of the twentieth century art in general and postmodernism in particular.

Keywords: surrealism, synthesis of arts, post-modernism, ready-made, epatage in art, aesthetics, innovation, subject, dadaism, Marcel Duchamp

Abstract: The author of the article discusses the purpose and means of musical-theoretical analysis and the possibility to reveal the beauty or the aesthetic value of a music piece. The first part of the article provides a brief insight into ancient philosophy to identify the differences between science and art, their purpose and methods. In Aristotelian philosophy science and art are the steps towards the truth. According to Plato, human can become the creator himself and imitate 'the eternal ideas realized in creation' by creating images of things. In the second part of the article, being based on Yu. Kholopov’s concept of musical analysis and interpretation of artistic value given by T. Cherednichenko, the author argues that the purpose of the analysis is to reveal laws of musical matter structuring, to build a model of the music work and to make a hypothesis about the initial ideas embodied by the composer. According to the author, analysis can not show the beauty of a music piece, and its value can only be partly justified. However,  analysis can give the access to the perception of Eidos impressed in musical work through enabling a better understanding of the music piece's structure. The value of analysis also depends on a researcher's ability to select an adequte method and strategy of analysis. 

Keywords: science and art, art history, analysis, model, axiology, eidos and logos, Plato, Aristotle, Aleksey Losev

Abstract: The subject of the present research is the perception of the musical-poetic discourse of Romanticism by the representatives of contemporary culture. The dominating theme in works created by romantic poets and composers is Love/Suffering aestheticized in the process of art representation. Another theme associated with Love/Suffering is Nature that was subjectively described by romantics depending on emotions felt by an author or a main character. Special attention is paid to peculiarities of the musical-poetic discourse as part of the social discourse of that age in general. In her research the author of the article has used the discursive analysis of lyrics of Schubert's romances (Lieder) which, on the one hand, are being viewed as part of the socio-cultural environment of those times and, on the other hand, analyzed from the point of view of universal values and concepts that make them relevant for a modern man. The emphasis is also made on peculiarities of this genre because it combines both music and poetry, moreover, their combination allows to achieve the integrity both poetry and music strive for. The scientific novelty of the research is caused by the fact that the musical-poetic works of romantics are being discussed as part of the discursive practices of those times and, at the same time, as having particular semantic dominants that have a universal meaning. The theme of Love/Suffering is such a dominant typical for the most popular artworks of that genre.  In her article Shapinskaya also provides a number of examples of interpretations of musical-poetic forms by famous performers as well as their opinions and thoughts on the matter. The author also analyzes the reaction of the modern audience, both prepared ones and beginners, regarding the musical-poetic discursive practices of romantics. It is concluded that musical-poetic works of those times are very important for our contemporaries who long for aesthetic values and emotions of Romanticism in the age of the cult of consumption and domination of popular culture. 

Keywords: poetry, aesthetics, culture, romanticism, discourse, value, genre, interpretation, music, emotion

Abstract: The subject of this study are temple paintings, drawn in neo-Byzantine style in the late XIX - early XX century by M.M. Vasiliev. Master's artistic original is unique among pictural samples presented to the Byzantine mode of execution. This work is supposed integral to shed light on biographical facts and stages of the creative path of the artist, as well by the examples of some works of art, to conduct analysis of the features brushwork by M.M. Vasilyev in comparison with samples of neo-Byzantine style in the works of V.M. Vasnetsov.Based on the undeniable Spirit-bearing samples temple painting Byzantine X-XII centuries and their social and artistic significance, research methodology of this study is a comparative analysis of the painting MM Vasilyev style neo-Byzantine style, generated by V.M. Vasnetsov. Critical appraisal of these artists works will contribute to the identification of essentially ideological importance and the effectiveness of their approaches of mode of execution wich are necessary for the upliftment of the society within the temple environment. The result of investigation of neo-Byzantine style of painting is supposed to separate M.M. Vasiliev creative approach from the conventional concept of "Vasnetsov school", as between them there are fundamental differences in the interpretation of images and compositions. Also, it seems appropriate to define a circle collaborated with M.M. Vasiliev, artists, which includes A.P. Blaznov, F.M. Vahrushev, F.R. Railean, L.A. Pyanovsky et al.Mural temples accomplished with Vasiliev, marked by deep penetration into the medieval image. Without departing from current trends, the master saves ideological Vasnetsov national direction, simultaneously breaking, subordinating and an introduction to the idea of communion with God Nouveau style. For contemporary art is genuine, what distinguishes painting Vasiliev and artists of his circle, can be a, figuratively speaking, the ragged ends of the thread, which stretched to the modern religious art, it will be possible to revive the friendly, lively, creative language of temple imagery, nwithout philosophize and not mindlessly copying but creating freely and truely.

Keywords: academic, Byzantine style of writing, Vasnetsov style, Temple painting, neo-Byzantine style, ideological searches, art history, Nouveau, iconographic convention, theological theory of image

Abstract: The subject under review is the creation of the system of esthetic education under the conditions of the crisis of artistic and esthetic concepts and values of modern people, especially younger generations who grew up during rapid informatization of the society. Informatization processes had a great impact both on the system of education and leisure time of people. The articie is also devote to the main features and peculiarities of the modern culture that has been formed in the age of globalization and total mediatization typical for the end of the XXth – beginning of the XXIth century. In order to change the current situation, it is necessary to find the best solution of a whole number of problems related to esthetic and artistic education in modern Russia and to develop the best model of esthetic education which would be based on the philosophy of culture and would be applicable both in institutional and non-institutional forms of esthetic education. In her research the author uses the method of textual analysis as well as the analysis of modern cultural practices including subcultures based on observations. Appealing to researches and practical recommendations in the sphere of esthetic and artistic education that were carried out and created by Russian theorists and practices at the second half of the XXth century as well as the theory of the ‘cultural capital’ offered by Pierre Bourdieu, the author finds out how it is possible to apply those in the modern social and cultural environment. The author raises a question about whether these recommendations are applicable to modern practices including subcultures. As an answer to that question, the author offers to create a new system of esthetic education which would combine both the past experience and modern practices, both institutional and non-institutional ones.

Keywords: esthetic education, culture, system of values, informatization, globalization, youth subcultures, post-culture, creativity, cultural capital, cultural heritage.

Abstract: The issue about ‘beginning of art history’ is not such a challenge for art studies any more, but the modern state of art still raises lots of questions. Modern art is a difficult topic to study because there are a great number of art forms nowadays. So the author suggests to use a general term ‘modernism’ for all kinds and forms of modern art. Based on the author, this term ‘modernism’ covers all modern movements in art starting from impressionism and also points out the similarity of processes that started in art at the last quarter of XIX century and have been ongoing up to the present. So far, the main intrigue in art studies is the appearance of modernism that recalled the old topic of the ‘death of art’. Kazimir Malevich’s ‘Black Square’ is now interpreted as the ‘gravestone’ of classical art. But ‘classical’ does not usually mean ‘stable’ or ‘constant ’ in art. Modernism did not ‘kill’ classical art. Classical art was gradually fading away because there was no more need in it.

Keywords: art history, art studies, classical art, modern art, crisis of art, modernism, avant-garde, post-modernism, style, realism.

Abstract: The article raises the question about the need in viewing symbolism as an artistic beginning not only from the point of view of art history but also cultural studies. Before symbolism appeared, esthetics was primarily oriented at sensitive elements typical modern. But symbolism, continuing the romanticism tradition, rehabilitated the supersensitive element which already started to fade away in the history of culture at the turn of Middle Ages and Renaissance. Such a transfer to a new epoch at the moment when symbolism was originated created new relations between the sensitive and supersensitive. Symbolism is a new phase of rehabilitation of the super-sensitive after Romanticism. This feature of symbolism takes its meaning beyond the borders of art history approach in the sphere of cultural studies. As the matter of fact, rehabilitation of the supersensitive, as P. Sorokin’s fundamental conception of socio-dynammics declared, meant the initial point of alternative culture, or culture of ideatsional type.

Keywords: cultural studies, alternative culture, culture of sensitive type, culture of ideatsional type, supersensible, symbolic forms of expression, theurgist esthetics, new religious consciousness, Epicureanism and hedonism, eternal return.

Abstract: The article raises a question about traditions associated with one of the movements in art at the turn of the the 19th – 20th centuries – symbolism. The author proves that symbolism hasn’t become consign consign to history because it is just an anticipation of culture which unfolded throughout the 20th century. The alternative culture which occurred in the 20th century made its contribution to the understanding of symbolism as a cultural phenomenon, expanded and deepened its meaning which was not that clear at the turn o the 19th – 20th centuries. Formation of a new system of values makes the connection between the legacy of symbolism and the culture that is being established now more clear.

Keywords: cultural studies, alternative culture, esthetics, symbolism, Thaw, social anomia, empire, Renais sance in art, gnostic tradition, libertine, all the colours of culture.

Abstract: Starting out from events half a century ago which were the result of Roger Garaudy’s ‘Realism without Borders’ and ideological campaign in the Soviet history of art and esthetics disapproving of this conception, the author views a set of problems related to the concept of borders in the social consciousness, culture, art and policy in a totalitarian nation. The author discovers system contradictions in the Soviet culture and ideology: the ‘state borders’ cult and starvation for exterior expansion at the same time; orientation at creation a common Soviet culture and new super-ethnical community, reinforcement of the moral and political unity of the Soviet society, elimination of the internal borders (between a city and a village, physical and mental labor, national and civilization areas) – and rigid system of clans in a socialistic society, implementation of nomenclature dissociations in all spheres of life. The ‘realism without borders’ formula became so popular because the need in fi rm borders as well as the need to destroy them were quite typical for opposing political parties: communists’ dictatorship which was based on isolation of the society from the bourgeois environment and opposition which sought the way out in the convergence of different worlds, connection of progressive movements, destruction of forced limits and formed its borers and opposed to damage of national traditions and moral values at the same time.

Keywords: cultural studies, history of art, ideology, art, culture in a totalitarian society, the problem of borders, propaganda, convergence theory, totalitarianism, emigration.

Abstract: The article provides definition and analysis of cultural types of scenic artistic impression based on the example of key representatives of West-European conducting (Hans von Bulow, Felix Weingartner, Wilhelm Furtwangler, Arturo Toscanini, Herbert von Karajan, Seiji Ozawa, Daniel Barenboim, Simon Rattle). The author of the article describes types of conductors: the three basic types (dictator, action boy, intellectual and poet) and mixed types (politician, businessmen and showman and a ‘traveling’ conductor). The author of the article also analyzes particular influence of conductors of different types on the orchestra. The author also tries to answer the following question: why some conductors who have a wonderful ear and memory for music, cannot become a great conductor, while others who are less talented play an important role in the history of music? For the first time the author suggests a classification which is not based on music or art studies but philosophy and culture (using such categories as ‘success’ and ‘artistic impression’).

Keywords: cultural studies, conductor, dictator, action boy, activity, music, artistic impression, success, personality, orchestra, choir.

Abstract: In this research W. Kandinsky examines «embryonic stage» of art science, analyses its defi nite prob lems and what is more underlines the ways of art and positive science approaches. Finally, the artist enlarges concept «the art theory», gives to it scientifi c basis and enriches it with natural-scientifi c principles. There is also the full text of Kandinsky unpublished article.

Keywords: V. V. Kandinsky, Russian Academy of Arts, embryonic state of science about art, positive science, monumental art, synthetic art, elements of art, resultant actions, the principle of the parallel fl ow, the principle of contraposition.

Abstract: The article describes the difference between science and being, analyzes synaesthetic conceptions and creates the model of synaesthesia.

Keywords: art studies, art history, color, code, images of the value, conception, image, concept, image-concept, correlation in art studies, the meaning of color in culture, science, being.

Abstract: The article views the basic elements of postcolonial discourse which infl uenced development of mo dern art and its theories. The author gives a critical evaluation of the post-colonial paradigm comparing it to the de-colonial turn as a more perspective tendency in comprehension of modern culture, art and society. The author also compares the Western esthetics and esthesis as spheres of sensual perception of the world which needs de-conolization. The author also touches upon the question of understanding the actual art of post-Soviet space from the point of view of the de-colonial turn.

Keywords: history of art, esthetics, esthesis, postcolonial paradigm, de-colonial turn, modern art, trickster, relational esthetics, global coloniality, Eurasian frontier.

Abstract: The article considers the various forms of globalization of cinematographic culture at the turn of the 20th- 21st century. The author traces back how Hollywood has turned from an American cultural phenomenon into a transnational corporation producing fi lms specially made for being distributed all over the planet. The author also analyzes particular variants of globalization processes in cinematography, from Bollywood in India to foreign fi lms made by Russian cinematographers.

Keywords: art history, globalization, glocalization, Hollywood, Bollywood, screen version, remake, deamericanization, spaghetti western, trans nationalization.