ART
Developing Personal Content Inspired by Vanitas Paintings
Common Vanitas Symbols
Roggenkamp, Mewhinney and Minns
In Vanitas painting of the 16th Century objects had symbolic meaning related to the brevity of life and the fleeting nature of wealth, knowledge and power. One was to be made more aware of the moral aspects of life and to acknowledge that we won’t live forever.
Sources: Wikipedia, Encyclopedia Britannica and Artyfactory.com
Attached are four artworks for you to enjoy. USE ONLY THE DRAWING FOR YOUR WRITING.
1. What is this artwork about?
2. List and tell the symbols of vanitas found in this artwork.
List and tell the symbols of vanitas that the artist invented if not found on the list.
How does the artist use the following art ideas?
3. Composition: How is the artwork organized in the space?
4. Value: How does the artist use light source, shading, shadow, contrast, and local tone.
5. Space: How does the artist create a convincing three-dimensional space and three-dimensional objects.