Philosophy of picture

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If a painting can ‘think visually,’ then Diderot was the first to articulate this idea, doing so with unmatched clarity. His Salons illustrate that the ‘imaginal’ sense emerging from engagement with a picture must be explored through concepts like ékphrasis and theatricality. This involves examining the power of images in relation to scene composition, expressive gestures, and a ‘theory of affections.’ The focus is on a groundbreaking issue in the English-speaking academic context: how to view a picture in a way that redefines aesthetics as a philosophical discipline. The Salons reveal that the ‘imaginal’ process leading to knowledge originates from the picture itself and requires a philosophical method of inquiry, reflecting Diderot's own philosophical background. Even from a contemporary standpoint, this method should connect to ékphrasis and theatricality. Additionally, the ‘pathetic’—the emotionally evocative aspect—is crucial, as it relates to the enjoyment of images, rooted in aesthetic disinterestedness, absorption, and voyeurism. This exploration invites a deeper understanding of how we interact with visual art and its implications for aesthetics.