The Scientific Network “Theory of Sculpture” aims to collate a range of material covering historic, modern and contemporary art in search of debates on sculpture theory. The project will examine whether or not perspectives of historic discourse can be applied to questions on the systematic, general phenomena of sculpture. Methodologically the research centres on ideas drawn from a phenomenological, discourse analytic and image theoretic perspective, while taking into account select example objects and relevant primary sources. Not only in academic art history, but also in the curatorial field, there is little debate about the specific parameters of sculpture especially considering the varyied potential of this medium. In academic research, a comprehensive study of the theory of sculpture is still incomplete. This is why the scientific network, supported by the DFG, is dedicated to this desideratum.
The Scientific Network “Theory of Sculpture” examines, whether or not perspectives of historic discourse can be applied to questions on the systematic, general phenomena of sculpture. Thematic focal points form the following time-spanning, sculpture specific parameter: spatiality, plasticity, temporality, narrativity and iconicity.