Metaphilosophical Aesthetics: Readings in the Engineering of Consciousness and the Poetry of Rupture, with Selections from the Works of the Artist Zahra Al Ghamdi

Abstract

     This study presents a critical reading of selected works by the artist Zahra Al-Ghamdi, transcending the limits of traditional aesthetic analysis to formulate a theoretical framework known as "Metaphysical Aesthetics". Through the interpretation of her visual works, the study reveals new concepts in light of contemporary philosophical theories. The research is based on ten main axes that embody an aesthetic ideology, and in which the artist's works are analyzed with evidence to uncover the fundamental aspects of existence, identity, time, and knowledge. The study aims to establish a methodology for the philosophical critique of visual arts, which sees in every artistic element a philosophical truth worthy of contemplation. The study followed scientific methodological steps, including presenting the problem, hypotheses, objectives, importance, boundaries, and terminology. It also provided a detailed explanation of the analytical axes within the theoretical framework before applying them to a selection of the artist's works. The study concluded with several findings, including: The fragmented and broken forms in the artist's works are not mere aesthetic flaws, but rather an ontological embodiment of the absence of unity and the fragility of existence.   

The   "Metaphysical Aesthetics" theoretical framework provides analytical tools to understand artworks that challenge classical concepts of beauty. Contemporary art can be used as a "philosophical vessel" to express the crises of identity and consciousness in a postmodern context., The research concluded with a set of recommendations, such as Applying the "Metaphysical Aesthetics" framework to the works of other contemporary artists to understand their philosophical dimensions: Conducting comparative studies between Arab and foreign visual arts using this critical approach. Developing this framework to include other art forms such as sculpture and installation art, to discover new horizons in the philosophical critique of art The paper concluded with a list of references.