Definitions for "Formalism"
The practice or the doctrine of strict adherence to, or dependence on, external forms, esp. in matters of religion.
A theory of art where the structural qualities (the elements of art and design principles), of a work are paramount
In the problem of necessary judgments, the theory which holds that the necessity of judgments is due to native a priori mental forms.
Tendency to elevate formal above expressive value in music, as in Neoclassical music.
A term used by the Soviet authorities to denounce works which were deemed too 'difficult' or 'complex' for the general public. The regime used the term frequently against Prokofiev and Shostakovich, and against composers whose music was not compatible with their political philosophy.
The belief that mathematical statements are just strings of symbols that we manipulate according to rules we make up, with only limited meaning.
a representation, not an explanation, and a means, not an end
A set of symbols and a collection of systematic rules governing their uses and interrelations. See also Knowledge Representation, Logic.
Formalist paintings take their own design elements as their subject matter and, thus, have no implicit subject beyond their own colors, shapes, textures, and so on. Opponents of this movement, who assert the importance of subject matter over design, are called nonformalists.