Final answer:
Content in the context of art refers to what the work is about, including its meaning, purpose, or message beyond just the subject matter. The medium and formal elements used by an artist can greatly influence the content. Aristotle's perspective on form as 'formal cause' relates to how form embodies the intended content of the artwork.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we look at the terms 'form' and 'content' in the context of art, 'form' refers to the total physical characteristics we see, such as the shape, line, color, texture, and space that define the piece. 'Content', on the other hand, is what the work is about; it is the meaning, purpose, or message the artist intends to convey through their work. While content can include the subject matter, like the dog in Rosa Bonheur's study or the autumnal ambiance in Pollock's Autumn Rhythm #30, it often goes deeper to express broader themes or ideas. For instance, Andy Goldsworthy's artwork, which employs natural elements, aims to draw attention to environmental concerns — thus the medium he chooses directly influences the content of his art.
Understanding the relationship between form and content is crucial for both creating art and analyzing it. The formal elements of art—line, shape, color, texture—can exist purely for aesthetic appreciation without a literal meaning, or can be utilized to enhance or communicate the content. Aristotle's notion of the 'formal cause' can be associated with the idea that the form gives clarity to the intended content of a work of art. Essentially, while form is the visual language, content is the conversation that work is trying to engage with the viewer.