What are Aesthetics?

Aesthetics is the philosophical and psychological conception of beauty. It is a particular approach to what is pleasing to the senses, (or not pleasing) to see. Aesthetics is sometimes considered a judgment of taste. Aesthetics in art education is a critical reflection of what we see and perceive.

Aesthetics are often linked to emotions but can also be linked to culture, values, preferences, and experiences. Aesthetics call forth unconscious and conscious reactions to something considered beautiful or even not beautiful. Why is it beautiful? Why is it not beautiful?

In questioning aesthetics, or the judgments of sentiment and taste, there is always a reflection. That thing that is being judged, what does it symbolize for the viewer? What does it mean for the person experiencing that thing?

link to image flickr.com/photos/ 7264509@N06/736856046/