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On the Distinction between the Abstract Tacts Art and Craft: A Concept Analysis

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Abstract

We may marvel at both the creativity and quality of work in a piece of pottery or a sculpture, or of a well-played basketball game or well-acted play. Although each may have similarities, and each may have instances of what might be called creativity, one is often considered art, whereas the other a craft. This article, using concept analyses, will explore what may be guiding the abstract tact “art” and the abstract tact “craft.” The critical features of each as well as the varying features will be described, compared, and contrasted. The consequential contingencies governing the creation or performance of each, and the effect of the work on the audience are the basis of the concept analysis. In the process it will be demonstrated how a consequential contingency analysis may contribute to understanding art, craft, their creation, and definition.

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adapted from Tiemann & Markle, 1990)

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Constructional Approach to Animal Welfare and Training, Palm Bay, USA

    Maasa Nishimuta

  2. Generategy, LLC, Seattle, WA, USA

    T. V. Joe Layng

Authors
  1. Maasa Nishimuta
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  2. T. V. Joe Layng
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Correspondence to Maasa Nishimuta or T. V. Joe Layng.

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Discussion Questions

1. Describe the difference between critical features in art and craft.

2. List variable features of art and craft.

3. How does the act of creation help us understand art and craft?

4. What variables influence and maintain the act of creation in art?

5. What variables influence and maintain the act of creation in craft?

6. Provide an example and non-example of art.

7. Can one item be both art and craft?

8. How would creation by nature, such as a beautiful flower fall into our analysis?

9. Describe the role the audience plays in defining art.

10. Provide an example of a work that shifted from craft to art or art to craft from the perspective of the audience.

This article was part of ABAI 2019 presentation. We thank Joanne Robbins, Paul Thomas Andronis, Francis Mechner, and Sean Will for their thoughtful feedback and support during the ABAI paper presentation and preparation for this article.

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Nishimuta, M., Layng, T.V.J. On the Distinction between the Abstract Tacts Art and Craft: A Concept Analysis. Psychol Rec 71, 585–594 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40732-021-00491-w

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