Design as Art: An Analysis of Arthur Danto’s Concepts in Relation to Designed Objects (A Case Study of Karim Rashid’s Works)

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Faculty Member, Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University

2 “PhD student in Philosophy of Art at Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch.”

10.22034/jpiut.2026.70457.4361

Abstract

Abstract

In contemporary art—described by Arthur Danto as marking the end of the history of art—classical concepts of art have been fundamentally challenged. Art is no longer governed by traditional criteria, and anything may become art depending on its context. This approach has also influenced design. Today, designers engage with new conceptual frameworks that move beyond the mere resolution of practical problems, producing works that, while functional, embody complex layers of meaning and theoretical significance.

The primary aim of this article is to analyze Danto’s theories concerning art and design, examine their relationship to the concept of the “artworld,” and evaluate his contribution to perspectives associated with contemporary design. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical method based on the study of written sources on contemporary design and Danto’s philosophical writings. The central research question addresses the role and impact of Danto’s ideas in understanding and explaining the relationship between art and design, as well as its connection to the artworld. Additionally, the article includes a case study focusing on the contemporary artist and designer Karim Rashid.

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Journal of Philosophical Investigations

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 24 February 2026

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