This essay investigates the special way in which a spectator might engage imaginatively with one work of art when the work is experienced in light of other works by the same artist. In particular, it addresses the idea that we might imaginatively identify with an unrepresented spectator in the picture after we have experienced others in which the…

When audience members consider aesthetic objects and/or works of art, they typically bring to their consideration a number of perspectives through which the object is considered. These include background beliefs, personal associations, taste preferences, and attitudes and values. Using Alan Goldman's aesthetic value theory as a platform, I…