This final chapter of “Vita delle forme” (Focillon, 1990) explores the complex relationship between artistic forms and historical time. Focillon challenges simplistic notions of chronological linearity, arguing that historical time is multifaceted, comprising diverse rhythms and interactions. He critiques deterministic views of art history, such as Taine's focus on race and environment, proposing instead a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between internal artistic development and external historical forces. The text emphasizes the dynamic nature of both artistic styles and historical periods, highlighting the coexistence of innovation and tradition, and the constant interaction between various factors, including environment, social structures, and individual artistic choices. Ultimately, Focillon argues that the artwork creates its own time, independent of external historical constraints.

Please note that the podcast covers key points from the source with synthetic voices, which may have glitches. It’s a reflective, not comprehensive, interpretation.

Focillon, H., & Castelnuovo, E. (1990). Vita delle forme seguito da Elogio della mano. Einaudi. ISBN 978-88-06-16332-7. (pp. 84.101)

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