Abstract
I will show how we can frame temporal dimensions of our environments for our
appreciation. In contrast to artworks, environments are changing all the time. There is no
frame with which to define what is the specific object of appreciation in environments
which surround us, and which extend without limit. We have to create our own frames
by ourselves. The question is how we frame temporal changes of environments.
First, I will classify the changes in two groups: macro- and micro- temporal change.
We cannot directly perceive the former, but can with the latter. Although we can
perceive micro changes, it is difficult to appreciate them because they are so ordinary
for us that we usually do not pay any attention to them.
Second, I will introduce Arnold Berleant’s “aesthetics of engagement” to clarify the
mechanism of framing these micro changes. Engagement is a kind of aesthetic attitude
for appreciating perceptual environmental experiences which consisted of cumulative
micro changes.
Third, I will elaborate on the role of our activity in framing micro changes. I will
distinguish our activities in environments into two levels, and show how aesthetic
engagement is related to each level.
