Art Appreciation
owanaba
Art1301_VisualLiteracy_Miceli-HoffmanG1.pdf
Developing Visual Literacy
Art 1301: by Prof. Gina Miceli-Hoffman © 2017
Microsoft Office Clip Art, 2016
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Vocabulary Term To Know
Visual Literacy Art
Aesthetics Artist(s)
Academic vs. Non-Academic European/Western Art
Non-European/Non-Western Art Composition
2-D versus 3-D Medium/Media
Mixed Media Subject Matter & Types
Representational Non-Representational
Abstract Naturalism
Realism Idealism
Form Content
Icons/Iconography Function/Purpose
Patron Style
Theme Categories Value
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Video Clips:
Why “Look” at Art? https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/ap-art-history/introduction-ap-arthistory/v/why-look-at-art
How Art Can Help You Analyze https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/ap-art-history/introduction-ap-arthistory/v/how-art-can-help-you-analyze-amy-e-herman
In order from Left to Right: Warhol’s Race Riot, 1963; Portrait of Buddha, 8th c. ad; House of Dereon Ad., 2015: http://www.lipsy.co.uk/keytrends/house-dereon; Houston Skyline, 2013.
Saskia Images & Sayre’s A World of Art, 7th ed. Instructor Slides.
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Visual Literacy
Accurately Recognize, Identify, Describe, Interpret,
Analyze, Evaluate & Critique Visual Art Forms
(Compositions)
Use specific Visual Arts terminology, concepts,
approaches
Placing compositions within appropriate historical
context
Accurately identifying appropriate style of a
composition
Comparing/Contrasting Styles
Requires Critical Thinking Skills!
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Historical Context:
1960’s America & Andy Warhol (1928-1987)
Racial Tension in America
“The March: Birmingham in Early
1963” on PBS
Click, below, for video segment:
http://www.pbs.org/video/2365069883/
Copyright © 2017 Public Broadcasting
Service (PBS), All rights reserved.
Andy Warhol
“Andy Warhol” on Biography
Click, below, for video segment
http://www.biography.com/people/andy-
warhol-9523875
© 2017 Bio and the Bio logo are
registered trademarks of A&E Television
Networks, LLC.
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Style: Recognizable reoccurring characteristics featured in an artist’s (or group of artist’s) work
Andy Warhola/Warhol. 1966. Silkscreen ink on synthetic polymer paint on
nine canvases, Each canvas 22 1/2 x 22 1/2" (57.2 x 57.2 cm), overall 67
5/8 x 67 5/8" (171.7 x 171.7 cm), MOMA. Academic Artist, Pop Art Style, 2-
D, Self Expression
Warhol. Marilyn Diptych, 1962. O.A. silkscreen on
enamel on canvas, Saskia
Andy Warhol. Race Riot, 1963,
each 20 x 33 in., silkscreen/acrylic,
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts,
New York, Pop Art Style!
Warhol, Campbell Soup Cans, Synthetic polymer paint on thirty-
two canvases, 20 x 16″ (50.8 x 40.6 cm) each. The Museum of
Modern Art (MOMA), New York
Andy Warhol, Liz (Elizabeth Taylor), 1964,
Lithograph, MFAH
Characteristics: Bold Colors, Abstraction, Repetition, “Iconic” motifs, large-scale compositions, printing & colorization methods
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Compare/Contrast
Original Image From
News Article
Warhol’s Composition
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Composition: Coordination of media/technique, subject matter, title, theme, formal
properties, icons/iconography, content/meaning, function/purpose
Western (American) Art Form: American Artist & American Theme
2-D Art Form: Colorized Print (Silk-Screen Process) = Media/Technique
Subject Matter: Historical Genre Scene (people performing activity – historical genre,
1963 Race Riot during Peaceful Protest in Birmingham, Alabama)
Theme: Racism in America
Categories: “Individual & Cultural Identity” - Class & Identity & Racial Identify; “Power “ (Power &
Race)
Presentation Method: Abstract (distorts recognizable images & colors )
Important Formal Properties: 2-D, Implied Lines, Colors Chosen (B/W, Red, White,
Blue), Square Shape, Symmetrically Balanced, Repetition of Scene, Focal Area
(top left), Time (historical & sequencing), Scale (larger than original image)
Aesthetically designed to capture viewers’ attention
Assists with interpretation – creates an overt “content/meaning” for viewers (formal
properties & iconography)
Icons/Iconography: Colors: Black & White (race & “news media event”); R/W/B (flag
colors); Red (bloodshed); Image (scene documenting racism); Square Shape (to
recall the American Flag)
Content/Meaning: American “democracy” is not equitable (not for everyone)
Purpose/Function: Educate, Communicate, Personal Expression, Economic, Social,
Cultural, Political, Document History…
Value: Extrinsic & Intrinsic (make money for artist, commodity, education and
communication, records history for future generations…)
Patron: Artist & Public (Made By & For Artist to Publish to Public, Maintained by Warhol
Foundation)
Style: 1960’s Pop Art
Warhol popularized this style: Artists incorporate popular imagery (“low art”) to create “High”
or “Fine” Art; often colorized with bold, bright colors, use of repeated elements, social
commentary, abstraction…)
Detail
Warhol, Race Riot, 1963, serigraphy, 4 panels
20”x30”,© 2007 Andy Warhol foundation.
(Sayre)
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WHAT IS ART?
Visual expression of an idea or experience, formed through
skill or will, with the use of a medium/media.
Paleolithic, Lascaux Caves, Hall of the Bulls, Lascaux, Fr. , ca. 15,000 – 13,000 b.c.e., mixed media, “Naive” Artist, Style: Prehistoric Paleolithic
Possible Themes: Spirituality, Cycles of Life, Sex, Individual & Cultural Identity, Power, Environment. (Preble) 9
Medium/Media
Medium/Media (pl): the material, method, or technique used
to create a work of art (clay, stone, wood, light, stained glass,
sculpture, paint)
Brancusi, The Kiss, c. 1916, limestone sculpture,
abstract. (Artforms)
Theme: Love & Sex (2 become 1 entity)
Pablo Picasso, Drawing a Bull with light/light pen, photograph, unknown
artist, 20th c., Abstract
Themes: Body (Performance), Individual & Cultural Identity
Specific: Spaniard Picasso Identifies with the male fertility image of a bull
Rose & Lancet Windows, West façade,
Chartres Cathedral, c. 1150-1170,
stained glass. Representational
Theme: Spiritual
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Mixed Media
Mixed Media: combination of different materials, methods,
techniques
Magical Figure, nkisi nkonde, Kongo
(Muserongo), Zaire, late 19th century, U. of
Iowa Museum of Art, abstract, African Style
(Kongo). (Artstor)
Yukinori Yanagi, America, 1994 (ants, sand, plastic boxes & tubes, 36 boxes, MOCA, San Diego, Installation, 1994, Post Modernism,
Academic Artist. (Preble)
Sutton Hoo Burial Ship Items, 7th century,
gold, garnets, mosaic, glass, filigree, British
Museum, London, Early Med. Style.
(Gardner)
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Two-Dimensional Art (2-D)
2-D - drawing, painting, prints, camera arts & computer
imaging, graphic design & illustration; lacking depth
,
Lascaux Caves, Hall of the Bulls, Paint & Drawing Media, Engraving, ca. 35,000 bc, Non-Academic,
Lascaux, France, Prehistoric Paleolithic Style. (Gardner)
Warhol, Race Riot, 1963, Acrylic & Silk Screen
Print on Canvas, four panels, Andy Warhol
Foundation, 2007, New York, Pop Art. (Sayre)
Computer generated image, Academic
Artists, Nintendo, Post Modernism.
(Saskia)
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Three Dimensional Art
3-D - crafts, sculpture, architecture & environmental design,
performance art; incorporates depth
Stonehenge, Prehistoric Neolithic,
Wiltshire, England, Stone, ca. 1800 b.c. (Gardner)
Ahearn & Torres, Pat, 1982,
Painted cast plaster, Alexander
& Bonin, New York (Sayre)
Antoni & Petronio, Honey Baby, 2013, Still
Video of Performance by Nick Sciscione
(performed in honey & video taped) (Sayre) 13
Is it art?
Koko the Gorilla painting!
Look at Abstract Expressionism
Bird by Koko (Koko’s “pet” blue-jay) Koko, Untitled, Watercolor Painting Michael the Gorilla, “Me,
Myself, Good”
http://www.koko.org/about-us
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Identify locations that might feature Non-Western/Non-European Art
Non-Western/Non-European Art
15
Non/European & Non/Western Art
Map of the World
Includes indigenous groups/artists not influenced by
European/American Art or European/American Standards 16
European/Western or Non-European/Non-Western?
Native American, Blackfeet Parfleche, 1885, Rawhide, pigment (saddle bag)
Non-European/Non-Western. (Preble) Tibetan Sand Mandala (perfect cosmos)
Wheel of Time/Law - Buddhist Symbol
(Non-European/Non-Western) (Preble)
Gerewol Festival, Fulani “Wodaabe” men, Southern
Niger, 2000’s (male beauty contest to attract wives)
(Non-European/Non-Western). (Sayre) 17
European/Western or
Non-European/Non-Western Art?
Christo & Jeanne-Claude, Installation, The Gates, New York City,
Central Park, aerial view, 1979-2005, photo Wolfgang Volz, 2005,
Christo & Jeann-Claude, Academic Artists, Post Modern Style.
European/Western. (Preble)
Ahearn & Torres, Pat, 1982, Painted cast plaster,
Alexander & Bonin, New York. European/Western. (Sayre) 18
European/Western Art or
Non-European/Non-Western Art ?
African Magical Figure, nkisi nkonde, Kongo (Muserongo),
Zaire, late 19th century, U. of Iowa Museum of Art, Abstract
Theme: Spiritual
Sesshu Toyo, Haboku Landscape for Soen
(detail), Japanese Muromachi Period, 1495,
hanging scroll, ink on paper, Tokyo Museum
Theme: Spiritual
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Non-Academic (Naive Artist) versus Academic Artist
Naive or “Untrained” Artist(s) Does not attend Art School or Formal Apprenticeship Program
Academic “Trained” Artist Attends Art School or Formal Apprenticeship Program 20
Non-Academic (Naive Artist) versus Academic Artist
Naive or “Untrained” Artist(s) Does not attend Art School or Formal Apprenticeship Program
Academic “Trained” Artist Attends Art School or Formal Apprenticeship Program
Magical Figure, nkisi nkonde, Kongo (Muserongo), Zaire, late 19th
century, U. of Iowa Museum of Art, abstract, African Style (Kongo).
(Preble)
Basquiat, Tobacco, 1984, mixed media, 86”x68”, Galerie Bruno Bischofberger, Zurich,
Academic Artist, Post Modern Style, 2-D Art. (Sayre)
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Purposes/Functions of Art
Communicates Information
Functional/Utilitarian
Religious/Spiritual
Personal/Cultural Expression
Social/Political
Visual Delight/Aesthetic
Others: Economic, Educate, Commemorate…
Multitude of Functions at one time!
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Can one work of art have a multitude of functions? Yes!
Caves of Lascaux, France, Prehistoric Paleolithic,, Hall of the Bulls, ca.
35,000 bc, Paintings, Drawings, Engravings. (Gardner)
Artistic Expression
Religious/Spiritual
Communication
Pleases the eye
(aesthetics/visual delight)
Educate Members of
Group
Decoration
Records History
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Can one work of art have a multitude of functions? Yes!
Basquiat, Tobacco, 1984, mixed media, 86”x68”, Galerie Bruno Bischofberger, Zurich, Academic Artist, Post
Modern Style, 2-D Art. Themes: Cycle of Life, Individual Identity. Specific: Human Vices (Smoking Kills)
Personal Expression
Communicates Message
Aesthetic (the way it looks - displeasing)
Social Statement
Economic (sold for $)
“Educational”
Historical
Cultural
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Aesthetics
1. Awareness of beauty or quality in work of art or manmade or natural
form which evokes sense of elevated awareness in the viewer
2. How the art “looks” not its “message” or “function”
Branch of philosophy that studies fundamental issues in the arts
(Art & Beauty; Creativity…)
Attempts to explain art, nature of art, value of art to artist & society
Derives from an interaction between artwork & the observer
Aesthetic Response: enjoying art form for how it looks, how it is
organized - visual elements & design
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Aesthetics & Creativity
Human civilizations use imagination or creative thinking to make
art forms
Einstein “Imagination > Science” (Preble, 24 )
Erich Fromm, “creativity is the ability to see
(or to be aware) and to respond” (Preble, 24)
Su Xi 11th c. poet: “intuitive grasping of the subject” (Preble, 24)
Duchamp - viewer’s response/interaction just as important to art
form/creativity (Kleiner, 230)
1. Albert Einstein, Saski; 2. Erich Fromm, Saskia; 3. Su Xi, Artstor; 4. Duchamp, Saskia
1.
2.
3.
4.
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3 Components of Aesthetic Philosophy
Subjectivism - viewer sets standards based on
individual preferences (very subjective &
opinionated)
Objectivism - viewer places value only in work of
art; standards are culturally predetermined &
absolute; attempts to totally remove “subjectivism”
Open Concept-viewer recognizes art is in constant
evolution/change & standards constrict nature of art
(Combination of Subject & Objective Interpretation)
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Types of Subject Matter - Portrait
Rembrandt, Self-Portrait,1658, o.c.
Representational, Rijks Museum,
“Naturalism”, Academic Artist, Theme:
Individual & Cultural Identity. (Gardner)
John Ahearn and Rigoberto Torres. Pat. 1982., Painted
Ceramic, 28 1/2 x 16 1/2 x 11 in, Private Collection, New
York, Representational & Realism
Academic Artist, Theme: Cultural, Gender, Racial Identity.
(Sayre)
Nicholas Nixon, The Brown Sisters, 1976, photo, MOMA Exhibit
Nicholas Nixon, The Brown Sisters, 1986, photo, MOMA Exhibit
Nicholas Nixon, The Brown Sisters, 2014, photo, MOMA Exhibit
(Sayre)
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Types of Subject Matter – Abstract Portrait
Auerbch, Head of Julia II, (His wife)1990, acrylic on board, Abstract.
Style: Post-Modernism. (Preble)
Academic Artist)
Theme: Body, Gender & Identity
Pablo Picasso. Seated Bather (La Baigneuse),1930, 64 1/4 x 51 in.
o.c., MOMA, New York. Style: Cubism. (Gardner)
Academic Artist
Theme: Body, Gender & Identity
Frank Auerboch,
Saskia Images
Pablo Picasso
Saskia Images
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Types of Subject Matter - Landscape
Cezanne, Mt. St. Victoire, ,o.c., 19TH century, Abstract,
Louvre. Style: Post Impressionism. Academic Artist.
(Gardner)
Albert Bierstadt, The Rocky Mountains, Lander’s Peak,
1863, o.c., 73 1/2 x 120 3/4 in.
MET, New York
Style: American Romanticism
Representational & Naturalism
Academic Artist
Themes For Both: Cultural Identity, Science, Technology, & Environment
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Types of Subject Matter - Seascape
Hokusai, Wave at Kanagawa, , c. 1830, color woodblock print,
Abstract. Style: Japanese, Non-Academic Artist. (Gardner)
Winslow Homer, Nassau, 1899, watercolor, AIC, Representational, Realism.
Style: American Realism. (Preble)
Theme: Cultural Identity, Science, Technology & Environment
Theme: Spiritual, Cycle of Life, Individual & Cultural Identity
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Types of Subject Matter – Genre (performing an activity)
Fragonard, The Swing, 1767, o.c., Louvre, Rococo
Style, (Preble). Representational, Academic Artist
Limbourg Bros., October, Tres Riches Heures du Duke
de Berry, w.c./tempera on parchment, Louvre. (Fichner-
Rathus). Representational, Academic Artists
Tanner, The Banjo Lesson, 1893, o.c.,
Style: American Realism. (Saskia).
Representational, Acadamic Artist 32
Types of Subject Matter - Still Life (Inanimate Objects)
O’Keefe, Oriental Poppies, 1927, o.c., 30”x40 1/8”,
Weisman Art Museum, U. of Minnesota. (Preble) Abstract,
Academic Artist, Style: American Modernism
Harnett, A Smoke Backstage, 1877, o.c., 7”x 81/2”, Honolulu Academy of Arts.
(Preble) Academic Artist. Representational, Style: Realism
Flack, Wheel of Fortune, 1977-78, o.a.c, 96” x 96”,
Louis K. Meisel Gallery, New York. (Gardner). Academic Artist,
Abstract Subject Matter, Style: American Modernism
Weston, Pepper #30, 1930, Photo, U. of Arizona,
Collection Center for Creative Photography, (Preble).
Abstract, Academic Artist, Style: American Modernism
René Magritte, The Treason of Images, 1929,
21 1/2 x 28 1/2 in., o.c., LA County Museum. (Preble)
Abstract, Style: European Dada
Robert Mapplethorpe, Calla Lily, 1986, photo,
Guggenheim NY. (Sayre), Abstract 33
Types of Subject Matter – Historical Narrative
Burning of the Sanjo Palace, Heiji Monogatari Emake,
Japan,. 13th c. Kamakura Pd, Handscroll, ink, w.c. on
paper, Heijji Style, Rep subject matter, Non-Academic
Artist. (Gardner)
David, Oath of the Horatii, 1784, o.c.,
Louvre. (Preble) Style: Neoclassical.
Representational, Academic Artist.
Andy Warhol. Race Riot, 1963,
each 20 x 33 in., silkscreen/acrylic,
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts,
New York, Style: Pop Art, Academic Artist, Abstract 34
Types of Subject Matter – Mythological Narrative
Botticelli, The Birth of Venus, c. 1485, t.c., Early Italian Renaissance Style, Academic Artist, Representational. (Artstor)
Original Patron: Medici Family (Wedding Gift: Symbolizes Role of Wife)
Themes: “Mythological” Love & Sex; Body, Gender, Identity; Power (of husband) 35
Types of Subject Matter -Religious/Spiritual
Michelangelo, “God Creating Adam” , Sistine Ceiling,
1508-12, fresco, Roma, Vatican, Academic,
High Italian Ren. Style, Representational
Nativity, Annunciation of the Shepherds, and the
Adoration of the Magi from Chartres Cathedral,
c. 1150., Stained Glass, Academic, Rep.
Robert Mapplethorpe, Calla Lily, 1986, photo,
Guggenheim NY, Abstract 36
VISUAL COMMUNICATION
Three Major Forms Representational/Objective/Figurative
Recognizable objects/images unaltered and placed in
appropriate context
Terms: Realism, Naturalism, Idealism
Non-Representational/Non-Objective/Non-Figurative
Unrecognizable Images or Reference to Nature
Emphasis on Media/Technique, Form, Visual Elements/Principles
of Design (colors, shapes, lines, balance, rep….)
Title will not reflect reference to recognizable items
Abstract
Depict natural objects in simplified, distorted or exaggerated
manner, or in a different context than normally experienced
Title may reflect reference to recognizable images, motifs, icons,
concepts…
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Representational Subject Matter
Jan van Eyck, The Ghent Altarpiece, c. 1423, o.c., Academic Artist, Style:
Northern European Renaissance, Spiritual Theme
Harnett, A Smoke Backstage, 1877, o.c. trompe l’oeil, Still-Life,
Style: Realism, Academic Artist
Rembrandt, Self-Portrait, 1658, o.c., Rijks Museum, Ahearn & Torres, Pat, 1982, ptd plaster
Images we recognize from nature that are not
distorted in any way, shape, or form
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Non-Representational/Non-Objective
Blackfeet Parfleche, 1885, rawhide, pigment
Non-Academic Artists, Style: Native American
(Cherokee)
Tukutuku Panels, Maori, New Zealand, 1930’s,
dyed plaited flax strips over wood laths, Non-Academic Artists
Style: Ne w Zeland Maori
Rothko, Orange & Yellow, 1956,
MOMA, mixed media, Academic
Artist, Style: Color Field
Judd, Untitled, ca. 1967, Mixed
Media, Academic Artist, Style:
Minimalism
Beatriz Milhazes, Caramblola, 2008, a.c.,
Style: Post Modern Minimalism, Academic
Kasimir Malevich. Suprematist Painting,
Black Rectangle, Blue Triangle, 1915,
26 1/8 x 22 1/2 in., o.c, Stedelijk Museum,
Amsterdam
Style: Suprematism / Academic Artist
Lacks theme/subject matter
Focus: Media/Techniques, Visual Elements, Principles of Design
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Abstract Subject Matter
Fresquez, Yellow Wall, 1997, mixed media
O’Keefe, Jack-in-the-pulpit no.V, 1930, o.c., MET,
Academic Artist, Style: American Modernism
Shirin Neshat, Rebelllious Silence,
women of Allah series, 1994, photo,
Academic, Style: Post Modernism
Basquiat, Tobacco, 1984, mixed media,
Style: Post Modernism, Academic Artist
Magritte, The Treason of Images, 1929,
o.c., Academic Artist, Dada Style
Sesshu Toyo, Habolku Landscape for
Soen, Japan, Muromachi Period, 1495, ink
on paper, Academic, Muromachi Style
Picabia, Machine Tournez
Vite, 1936, tempera on
paper, Private Collection,
Dada
Distortion from
natural state,
setting, or context
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Realism
-Exactly how items or people look at a specific moment in time
41
Naturalism
-Realistic elements but personal or subjective view point
Rembrandt Role-Playing as a
Gentleman of High Society
Hokusai’s Interpretation of Life’s Spiritual Journey
Still-Life imbued with meaning ; a pepper as an
“entity” worth experiencing, not just eating 42
Idealism
- Enhanced to meet a “standard” or “ideal”
Michelangelo’s Intellectual
David in the guise of a Greco-
Roman God or Hero
Hindu Deity Shiva Nataraja as perfect entity – all
powerful & ideal body type
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Theme Categories:
Spiritual
Life Cycle
Love & Sex
Body, Gender, Identity
Individual & Cultural Identity
Power
Science, Technology, Environment
Combination
44
Spiritual
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details (Artstor & Saskia Imagery)
45
Life Cycle
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
Birth, Life, Death, & Possible Re-Birth 46
Love & Sex
Abstract Male/Female Principle Buddhist & Hindu Erotic Imagery – Symbolizes
love for deity
Puberty & Gender Rituals
Garden of Love (Menage a
Trois Scene) Sexuality, Birth, Life
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Body, Gender, Identity
http://missamerica.org/
Bob Pack, The Stephen F. Austin Monument, Sugarland, Texas
Town Square, http://www.bobpack.com/installation.html
(Texans identify with founding “father”)
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
Mickalene Thomas, Portrait of Mnonja, 201. Mixed Media,
8x10’, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC.
Assertive “Modern” Woman of Color
Manet, Olympia, 1863, o.c., 4’3”x6’21/4’,
Musee d”orsay, Paris. Prostitution
Mapplethorpe, Ajitto, 1981, photo, 30x40”,
Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation. Male
Perfection/Identity/Gender
Robert Mapplethorpe, Self Portrait
in Drag, 1980, Photo, Private.
Hung Liu, Virgin/Vessel, 1990, o.c., broom,
6x4ft, Nancy Hoffman Gallery, NY. Retired
Geisha
Physical Perfection, Beauty, Gender Roles
48
Individual & Cultural Identity
National Identity “America – Texas”
Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People,1830,
o.c., 8’63/8”x10’8”, Musee du Louvre, Paris.
National, Cultural, Class Identity.
Faith Ringgold, “God Bless America, no. 13”, Series American
People, 1964, o.c., 31x19”, Faith Ringgold, Inc., 1964. Individual ,
Racial, Class, National Identity
Native American, Lone Dog Winter Count, Paint on
Hide, 1800-1870, 106" x 77" (270 x 196 cm), History or
Calendars of events recorded by pictures. Cultural Identity.
Degas, The Glass of Absinthe,
1875-87, o.c., 36x27”, Musee
d’Orsay, Paris. Class Identity.
Individual, Cultural, National, Gender & Cultural
Identity
49
Power
Edmund Clark, “Naval Base, quarters for camp personnel” (left) “Camp 6, Emergency Response
Force equipment” from series Guantanamo: If the Light Goes Out, Guantanamo Bay detention
facility, Cuba, 2009. Photos. Edmund Clark,London.
Political & Religious Power
Kerry James Marshall, Many Mansions, 1994, Acrylic & collage on unstretched
canvas, 9’6”x11’3”, Jack Shainman Gallery, NY . Community Power
Guerrilla Girls, “Do Women Have to Be Naked to Get into the Med. Museum?”, 1989, Poster,
Guerilla Girls, Inc., 1989/95. Feminist Movement
David, Napoleon Crossing the Saint-Bernard, 1800-01,
o.c., 8’11”x7’7”, Musee du Chateau, Reuil-Malmaison,
France. Political Power of Leader
Jose de Alcibar, From Spaniard and Black, Mulatto, ca. 1760, o.c.,
31x381/4”, Denver Art Museum. Religious Power
50
Science, Technology, Environment
Cai Guo-Qiang, Project to Extend the Great Wall of China by 10,000 Meters:
Project for Extraterrestrials No. 10, Gobi Desert, Feb. 27,1993, 7:35 pm.
Environmental Art, Political/Social Commentary (Chinese history of
Gunpowder, Chinese Government, Exclusion now Inclusion…)
George Green, …marooned n dreaming: a path of song and mind,
2011. Acrylic on birch, 4’x6’10”, Artist’s Private Collection (spirituality,
science, artistic techniques, environment)
Ancient Rome, Pont du Guard (aqueduct), Nimes, France, 1st c. bce/1st c.ad,.
(Saskia) . Roman Engineering.
Chim↑ Pom, Junichi Kakizaki, Radiation-Exposed Flowers
Harmony, 2011, mixed media, MUJIN-TO Production, Tokyo.
(Sayre).
Spike Lee, When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four
Acts, 2016. Still Film, 4 hrs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12xj1sHvIWA
51
FORM / CONTENT
Rodin, The Kiss (1886) marble
Academic Artist, Style: Romanticism/Realism.
(Preble)
Brancusi, The Kiss (c.1912) limestone
Academic Artist, Style: Modernism
(Preble)
Form = What we see (visual
elements/principles of design,
media & techniques, subject
matter)
Content = story/meaning of what
we see
The two: form & content are
interrelated
Artists often select particular
formal qualities to suit
content/meaning and/or function
of the art form!
Rodin (Representational) physical love – what it “feels” like to be in love Rodin (Abstract)) psychological love – two people become one entity
52
Form / Content
Hokusai,The Great Wave, (at Mt. Fuji) c. 1831,
polychrome woodblock print on paper,
Japanese. Abstract Stylization to meet needs of Spiritual Interpretation
of Life Cycle (Birth, Death, Rebirth)
Cezanne, Mont Sainte-Victoire, 1900-04 Series, o.c., Louvre,
Academic Artist, Post-Impressionism. Abstract Form; practicing
abstracting scene using various media/techniques for “aesthetic”
purposes.
53
Form & Content Spiritual Theme: Good versus Evil (David vs. Goliath)
Cultural Identity Theme: Early Ren. vs High Ren. vs Baroque
Power Theme: David represents political leadership of patrons
Donatello, David (1408 ) bronze
Early Italian Renaissance Style, Rep.,(Gardner)
Idealism & Naturalism
Bernini, David, 1623, marble,
Italian Baroque Style, Rep. (Gardner).
Idealism & Naturalism
Michelangelo, David, marble,
1501-04 High Italian Ren Style, Rep,
Idealism & Naturalism (Gardner)
54
Form & Content
Time: After Battle David the young boy, defeats evil with a sword,
brute force, time depicted is after battle
Warrior: Heroics admired during this time period
Time: During Battle:Mature David, defeats evil with both his mind and body in a
very passionate and aggressive manner - here he is in the act of slinging the rock,
Warrior & Intellectual: both heroics & intellectualism admired during this time period
Time: Prior to Battle / Intellectual
David, the young humanist male, defeats evil with his mind first,
then brute force, time depicted is prior to battle.
Intellectualism admired at this time period
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ICONOGRAPHY
Greek for “Writing of Images”
“Icon” = image or symbolic representation of an image
“Iconography” = “image writing” but also accurate interpretation &
study of visual images, conventions, and symbols
Symbolic meaning of subjects & signs used to convey ideas important
to particular cultures or religions along with conventions governing the
use of such forms
Can you identify the icons, below?
Are the items related? What’s the iconography for each?
Can anyone/everyone comprehend its meaning? Why or Why Not?
56
Icons – How can you recognize them? What do they symbolize? For Whom?
57
ICONOGRAPHY
Can you identify
content/meaning?
Any particular icons that
help you?
58
ICONOGRAPHY Christian Iconography
Knight = Good Christian
Death carries hourglass
Serpents = death
Dog = fidelity
Lizard = evil
Skull = mortality/death
Background = City of God
Goat = Sexuality/Sin
Allegory: Good vs Evil
One must select correct
path to reach god
Albrecht Durer. The Knight, Death and the Devil. 1513. Engraving, Representational - Title Helps!
Themes: Spiritual, Cultural, Power, Life Cycle
59
Iconography Can you recognize the “icons”?
What do they symbolize?
Need to place items in historical context
Current interpretation can be inaccurate
Current Culture: Dog = Pet
15th Century Culture: Dog = Fidelity
Use Academic Sources:
Art Appreciation & Art History Course Texts
A World of Art (Sayre)
Artforms (Preble)
Art Across Time (Schneider-Adams)
Art of the Ages (Gardner)
Understanding Art (Fichner-Rathus)
Refer to presentation Bibliography
Academic Online Sources
http://besthistorysites.net/art-history/
https://smarthistory.org/
Art History Dept. University Sites
Museum & Gallery websites
Course textbook websites
Jan van Eyck, The Arnolfini Portrait, 1434, o. oak panel, 33 ½” x 23 ½”,
National Gallery, London, Rep., (Saskia) 60
Iconography Prominent Theory:
Betrothal (Marriage Proposal/Contract)
Icons & Interpretation
Male Hand Gesture = Pledge/Oath of Fidelity & Dowry
Transference (Bride’s Family Land, Money, Wealth…)
Shoes Off = Holy Sacred Ground
Green Dress = Fertility
Garments & Items = Wealth
Artist’s Signature & Date = Witness to Event Jan van Ecyk was here, 1434
Light from Window = Divine Light
Dog = Fidelity
Room (bedroom?): Consummate Marriage
Christian Symbols Necessary For “Civil” Wedding
(Need God’s approval & a Witness) Rosary Beads
Stations of the Cross on Mirror
One Candle Lit
Light from Window
Shoes Off
Artist’s Signature & Images in Mirror (3 or more people)
Jan van Eyck, The Arnolfini Portrait, 1434, o. oak panel, 33 ½” x 23 ½”,
National Gallery, London, Rep., (Saskia) 61
Hindu Iconography - Descent of the Ganges
Mamallapuram, India, 7th century, granite, 30’ tall., Hindu Art, Representational
Serpent = River; Cat & Mice = Arrogance; Gorge = River Ganges helps earth/miracle/life force; Ganges is a sacred river to Hindis’, Elephant = God Ganesha
Spiritual & Life Cycle Theme
62
Iconography of Buddha
Sanghati: monk’s robe
Ushnisha: bun at top of head/ enlightenment
Urna: dot on forehead = superior wisdom
Bird shaped eyebrows = divinity
Downcast eyes = introspection
Mudras: sacred & symbolic hand gestures
Chubby: previous wealth as prince
Long ear lobes: previous wealth as prince
(wore heavy gold earrings)
Halo: superior wisdom & light of the way
Lotus Flower: symbol of purity/divinity
Wheel of Law: dharma
Posture: meditative pose (yogi positions)
Seated under Bodhi Tree-Bodha Gaya - first
sermon (India)
Theme: Spiritual 63
Andy Warhol (Pop Art) : Marilyn Monroe Motif
Anonymous, Warhol Portrait, 1979,
photo, Andy Warhol Foundation
Warhol. Marilyn Diptych, 1962. O.A. silkscreen on enamel on canvas,
Andy Warhol Foundation
Style: Pop Art – abstraction, repetition, bold colors
Marilyn Monroe, Publicity Photo 1952, Warhol’s crop marks and painting ca. 1960’s
Tragic Iconic figure of 1950’s/60’s (1926-1962).
Actress, Model, Famous “Ditzy Blonde”
People become “mass products” consumed by others, such as with
art and commercial products
Themes: Cycle of Life; Love & Sex; Body, Gender, Identity; Individual
& Cultural Identity
Tate Gallery Exhibit Advertisement,
Andy Warhol Image of Marilyn
Monroe (taken from publicity photo of
1952, Serigraphy, 1960’s
Warhol, Gold Marilyn,
serigraphy, 1988, MOMA
64
Iconography: Aunt Jemima & Uncle Ben
1950’s Aunt Jemima
ad, Saskia
No More!, 1967. Mixed media painting by Jon Onye Lockard, Ferris State University, Jim Crow Museum, Big Rapids, MI. Saskia
Images
Bette Saar, The Liberation of Aunt Jemima, 1972,
mixed media, 11 ¾”x8”x23/4”.. Modern Art, Mixed
Media, Abstract, Saskia. & Sayre.
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk
Advertisement, ca. 20/21st
century Saskia.
Brand Names Associated with Racism & Sexism in America!
“Mammy” = black female Slave,”White” Owner’s House Servant & “Wet-Nurse”
“Uncle Ben= Black Male Slave/ “White” Owner’s House Servant / Uncle Ben’s Rice based in Houston, TX!
Themes: Gender & Identity, Cultural & Individual Identity, Power (Rulers, Women, Men, Race)
Black Mammy Ceramic
ware, c. 1800’s, Saskia
Images
Kara E. Walker, A Subtlety or The Marvelous Sugar
Baby,…, Sugar Paste Sculpture, 2014. Domino Sugar
Plant (Williamsburg, Brooklyn) Benefactor/Patron:
Creative Time. Style: Post-Modernism . Saskia.
Commemorates Destruction of Domino Sugar Plant &
Slavery
Reveals Hidden Truths: Racism & Sexism Still Exists in
America!
Top Right: Egyptian Sphinx of Queen Hatshepsut, New
Kingdom Egypt, ca. 1479-1458 , Originally Painted
Marble, MET, Saskia.
Renee Cox, Liberation of UB & Lady J (Uncle Ben & Aunt Jemima), 1998, Abstract Photo,
Post Modernism Style. Saskia. Self Portrait of Artist as Female Super Heroes. Saskia. 65
Style: Recognizable reoccurring characteristics featured in an artist’s (or group of artist’s) work
Andy Warhola/Warhol. 1966. Silkscreen ink on synthetic polymer paint on
nine canvases, Each canvas 22 1/2 x 22 1/2" (57.2 x 57.2 cm), overall 67
5/8 x 67 5/8" (171.7 x 171.7 cm), MOMA. Academic Artist, Pop Art Style, 2-
D, Self Expression
Warhol. Marilyn Diptych, 1962. O.A. silkscreen on
enamel on canvas, Saskia
Andy Warhol. Race Riot, 1963,
each 20 x 33 in., silkscreen/acrylic,
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts,
New York, Pop Art Style!
Warhol, Campbell Soup Cans, Synthetic polymer paint on thirty-
two canvases, 20 x 16″ (50.8 x 40.6 cm) each. The Museum of
Modern Art (MOMA), New York
Andy Warhol, Liz (Elizabeth Taylor), 1964,
Lithograph, MFAH 66
Warhol’s “Style”:
Typical Characteristics: Advertising Media & Techniques
(printmaking, large-scale, repetition, bold colors, mass production…)
Abstract Subject Matter Through color, placement, repetition…particularly portraiture
Popular Cultural Icons & Motifs Often advertising media imagery, famous people, cult-figures, self-portraits
Serial Imagery: multiple images viewed as a series
Repetition & Pattern
Bold Colorization
Geometric Shapes
Symmetry (sometimes extreme)
Unnatural Scale
Often Lacks Specific Focal Point, Directions Forces,
Perspective (Linear)
Goal: view entire composition at same time
67
Style & Iconography: 21st century Louis Vuitton
Collaboration with Famous Neo-Pop Artist, Jeff Koons April 28, 2017: Series called “Masters”
Recognizable Brand (Monogram “LV” & Fleur de lis)
Geometric Shapes & Quality Materials
Very Expensive (thousands)
Famous compositions from the History of Art Re-created
by artist Jeff Koons “Gazing Ball” paintings by Jeff Koons
Includes “names” of famous artists who’ve originally created the work
Images placed on Louis Vuitton handbags & wallets for
this collection
JK initials: Jeff Koons
Advertisement Campaign: Famous Actors/Actresses
pose with collection & backdrop of Jeff Koons’ painted
replicas of famous compositions
Watch Video Clip: http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-
us/stories/masterscampaign?campaign=sem_GG-US-ENG-EC-BRAN-
EVNT-Masters&gclid=CJW4urHEvtMCFUKewAodKh0MpQ#section-
masters
Photos by Patrick Demarchelier 68
Style: Can you spot “characteristics” of the Gucci Spring/Summer 2016 Collection?
https://www.gucci.com/us/en/lo/runway-c-runway
Top right photo: Guccio Gucci, founder, 1921, Florence
Gucci Symbol/Icon 69
Can you visually identify characteristics of Modern Architecture?
Right: Johnson & Van der Rohe, Seagram Bldg., 375 Park Ave., New York NY 1956-58
Left: Skidmore, et.al, One Shell Plaza, 910 Louisiana St., Houston, TX, 1971 Top Left: Wright, Guggenheim Museum, 1071 5th Ave., New York, NY, 1956-59
Bottom Left:: Le Corbusier, Villa Savoy, 82 Rue de Villiers, Poissy, France, 1928-31 70
Style: Modern Architecture
http://www.encyclopedia.com/literature-and-arts/art-and-
architecture/architecture/modern-architecture
CLICK HERE:
CLICK HERE: http://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/374847/a
n-animated-tour-of-modern-architectures-
masterpieces/
CLICK HERE: https://smarthistory.org/ludwig-mies-van-der-
rohe-seagram-building-new-york-city/
71
Patron – Commissions Artist(s) to Create Art Form (or owns it)
Official Portrait of Ex-Officio
President Barack Obama ,ca. 2008,
Associated Press
Patron: American Govt. & President
Jan & Hubert van Eyck, The Ghent Altarpiece, c. 1432, 11 ft
5” x 15 ‘ 1”, Church of St. Bavo, Ghent, Belgium,
Patrons: Church Elders & Congregants
Donatello, David, 1425-30, bronze, 62 ¼”,
National Museum of Bargello, Florence,
Patron: Medici Family
Jan Van Eyck, Giovanni Arnolfini &
Giovanna Cenami, c. 1434, o.p.,
32 ¼ x 23 ½”, National Gallery, London
Patron: Giovanni Arnolfini
Burning of the Sanjo Palace, Heiji Monogatari Emake
(Tale of the Hejii Rebellion) , Japan,. 13th c. Kamakura Pd,
Handscroll, ink, w.c. on paper, 41.3 x669.7 cm,
Boston Museum of Fine Arts , Patron: Kamakura Imperial Leader/government
72
Vocabulary Terms to Know!
Visual Literacy: Using specific concepts, approaches, terminology to either accurately recognize, identify,
describe, interpret, analyze, compare/contrast, critique, or evaluate a visual art form
(Critical Thinking Skills)
Aesthetics: Branch of philosophy concerned with how a work of art looks (poor or good quality of design,
coordination of comp…)
“Art”: Use of media/techniques, with skill or will, to create a visual art form
Artist(s): Entity that creates “Art”
Academic Artist: Completed a “Formal” Art Program or Master/Apprentice Program (Michelangelo,
Versace, Spike Lee..)
Non-Academic Artist: Did not attend a formal art program/class/school (Prehistoric Artists, Native
American Artists…)
European/Western Art: Art created by European and/or American Artists (or cultures that influenced
European/American art forms)
Non-European/Non-Western Art: Art created by artists not classified as European/American
Composition = Coordination of media/technique, subject matter, title, theme, formal properties,
icons/iconography, content/meaning, purpose/function to create an art form
2-D (flat) (painting, digital art, prints, drawing…) versus 3-D (not flat: architecture, sculpture,
people…)
Medium (Media=plural): Material & Techniques used to create an art form (oil painting, brick structure…)
Mixed Media: More than one Medium (ex: pencil, charcoal, pastel in one drawing)
73
Vocabulary Terms to Know!
Subject Matter = “What” is depicted Portrait, Genre, Landscape, Still-Life, Historical, Mythological, Religious, Political…
Representational (recognizable imagery)
Realism (accurate & true to nature), Naturalism (artist’s interpretation of nature), Idealism (enhances
nature/concept of “perfection”)
Abstract (distorted imagery or placed out of context)
Non-Rep (lacks subject matter/content: visual elements/principles of design (line, color, shape, balance, rep….)
Theme: Universal concerns that people seek to explore and understand through art
Spiritual
Life Cycle
Love & Sex
Body, Gender, Identity
Individual and/or Cultural Identity
Power
Science, Technology, Environment
Form = “How” Subject Matter is Illustrated
Media/techniques, subject matter & presentation, visual elements/principles of design (Ch’s 4-8)
Content = Interpretation of the meaning of the artwork, theme or story
Icons/Iconography = images/motifs & accurate interpretation - helps to determine content
Function/Purpose = “Why” art form was created
(Aesthetics, Personal, Utilitarian, Social, Political, Communicate, Educate, Economic…)
Patron = person or people who hire, purchase, own, maintain, or ask artist to create an art form
Style: Distinctive handling of elements & media/techniques associated with art created by either an individual artist,
“School”, movement, culture, or time period
Value: Worth of a work of art (intrinsic/extrinsic); educational, monetary, political, communicative, spiritual, cultural, social… 74
75
Realism or Naturalism or Idealism?
76
Realism or Naturalism or Idealism?
77
Theme Category?
http://missamerica.org/
Bob Pack, The Stephen F. Austin Monument, Sugarland, Texas
Town Square, http://www.bobpack.com/installation.html
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
Mickalene Thomas, Portrait of Mnonja, 201. Mixed Media,
8x10’, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC.
Manet, Olympia, 1863, o.c., 4’3”x6’21/4’,
Musee d”orsay, Paris
Mapplethorpe, Ajitto, 1981, photo,
30x40”, Robert Mapplethorpe
Foundation
Robert Mapplethorpe, Self Portrait
in Drag, 1980, Photo, Private
Collection
Hung Liu, Virgin/Vessel, 1990, o.c., broom,
6x4ft, Nancy Hoffman Gallery, NY
78
Body, Gender, Identity
http://missamerica.org/
Bob Pack, The Stephen F. Austin Monument, Sugarland, Texas
Town Square, http://www.bobpack.com/installation.html
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
Mickalene Thomas, Portrait of Mnonja, 201. Mixed Media,
8x10’, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC.
Manet, Olympia, 1863, o.c., 4’3”x6’21/4’,
Musee d”orsay, Paris
Mapplethorpe, Ajitto, 1981, photo,
30x40”, Robert Mapplethorpe
Foundation
Robert Mapplethorpe, Self Portrait
in Drag, 1980, Photo, Private
Collection
Hung Liu, Virgin/Vessel, 1990, o.c., broom,
6x4ft, Nancy Hoffman Gallery, NY
79
Types of Subject Matter?
O’Keefe, Oriental Poppies, 1927, o.c., 30”x40 1/8”,
Weisman Art Museum, U. of Minnesota. Abstract,
Academic Artist, Style: American Modernism
Harnett, A Smoke Backstage, 1877, o.c., 7”x 81/2”, Honolulu
Academy of Arts. Academic Artist. Representational, Style: Realism Flack, Wheel of Fortune, 1977-78, o.a.c, 96” x 96”,
Louis K. Meisel Gallery, New York. Academic Artist,
Abstract Subject Matter, Style: American Modernism
Weston, Pepper #30, 1930, Photo, U. of
Arizona, Collection Center for Creative
Photography, Abstract, Academic Artist,
Style: American Modernism
René Magritte, The Treason of Images, 1929,
21 1/2 x 28 1/2 in., o.c., LA County Museum, Abstract, Style: European
Dada 80
Types of Subject Matter? STILL-LIFE
O’Keefe, Oriental Poppies, 1927, o.c., 30”x40 1/8”,
Weisman Art Museum, U. of Minnesota. Abstract,
Academic Artist, Style: American Modernism
Harnett, A Smoke Backstage, 1877, o.c., 7”x 81/2”, Honolulu
Academy of Arts. Academic Artist. Representational, Style: Realism Flack, Wheel of Fortune, 1977-78, o.a.c, 96” x 96”,
Louis K. Meisel Gallery, New York. Academic Artist,
Abstract Subject Matter, Style: American Modernism
Weston, Pepper #30, 1930, Photo, U. of
Arizona, Collection Center for Creative
Photography, Abstract, Academic Artist,
Style: American Modernism
René Magritte, The Treason of Images, 1929,
21 1/2 x 28 1/2 in., o.c., LA County Museum, Abstract, Style: European
Dada 81
Select Best Definition of “Aesthetics”
a. Form
b. Recognizable objects/images unaltered & placed in appropriate context
c. Writing of Images
d. Awareness of beauty or quality in work of art or
manmade or natural form which evokes sense of
elevated awareness in the viewer
e. Content
82
Select Best Definition of “Aesthetics”
a. Form
b. Recognizable objects/images unaltered & placed in appropriate context
c. Writing of Images
d. Awareness of beauty or quality in work of art or
manmade or natural form which evokes sense of
elevated awareness in the viewer
e. Content
83
Theme Category?
Edmund Clark, “Naval Base, quarters for camp personnel” (left) “Camp 6, Emergency Response
Force equipment” from series Guantanamo: If the Light Goes Out, Guantanamo Bay detention
facility, Cuba, 2009. Photos. Edmund Clark,London.
Kerry James Marshall, Many Mansions, 1994, Acrylic & collage on unstretched
canvas, 9’6”x11’3”, Jack Shainman Gallery, NY
Guerrilla Girls, “Do Women Have to Be Naked to Get into the Med. Museum?”, 1989, Poster,
Guerilla Girls, Inc., 1989/95.
David, Napoleon Crossing the Saint-Bernard,
1800-01, o.c., 8’11”x7’7”, Musee du Chateau,
Reuil-Malmaison, France
Jose de Alcibar, From Spaniard and Black, Mulatto, ca. 1760, o.c.,
31x381/4”, Denver Art Museum.
84
Power
Edmund Clark, “Naval Base, quarters for camp personnel” (left) “Camp 6, Emergency Response
Force equipment” from series Guantanamo: If the Light Goes Out, Guantanamo Bay detention
facility, Cuba, 2009. Photos. Edmund Clark,London.
Kerry James Marshall, Many Mansions, 1994, Acrylic & collage on unstretched
canvas, 9’6”x11’3”, Jack Shainman Gallery, NY
Guerrilla Girls, “Do Women Have to Be Naked to Get into the Med. Museum?”, 1989, Poster,
Guerilla Girls, Inc., 1989/95.
David, Napoleon Crossing the Saint-Bernard,
1800-01, o.c., 8’11”x7’7”, Musee du Chateau,
Reuil-Malmaison, France
Jose de Alcibar, From Spaniard and Black, Mulatto, ca. 1760, o.c.,
31x381/4”, Denver Art Museum.
85
2-D or 3-D?
86
2-D or 3-D?
87
Identify the “type” of subject matter & how it presented (rep, non-rep, abstract)
88
Identify the “type” of subject matter = Portrait
How it presented = Representational
89
ICONOGRAPHY
Can you identify the
content/meaning?
Any particular icons that
help you?
90
ICONOGRAPHY Christian Iconography
Knight = Good Christian
Death carries hourglass
Serpents = death
Dog = fidelity
Lizard = evil
Skull = mortality/death
Background = City of God
Goat = Sexuality/Sin
Allegory: Good vs Evil
one must select the correct
path to reach god
Albrecht Durer. The Knight, Death and the Devil. 1513. Engraving, Representational - Title Helps! 91
Rep, Non-Rep, or Abstract?
92
Rep, Non-Rep, or Abstract?
93
Types of Subject Matter?
94
Types of Subject Matter? Historical
95
Theme Category?
National Identity “America – Texas”
Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People,1830,
o.c., 8’63/8”x10’8”, Musee du Louvre, Paris.
National, Cultural, Class Identity.
Faith Ringgold, “God Bless America, no. 13”, Series American
People, 1964, o.c., 31x19”, Faith Ringgold, Inc., 1964. Individual ,
Racial, Class, National Identity
Native American, Lone Dog Winter Count, Paint on
Hide, 1800-1870, 106" x 77" (270 x 196 cm), History or
Calendars of events recorded by pictures. Cultural Identity.
Degas, The Glass of Absinthe,
1875-87, o.c., 36x27”, Musee
d’Orsay, Paris. Class Identity.
Individual, Cultural, National, Gender Identity
96
Individual & Cultural Identity
National Identity “America – Texas”
Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People,1830,
o.c., 8’63/8”x10’8”, Musee du Louvre, Paris.
National, Cultural, Class Identity.
Faith Ringgold, “God Bless America, no. 13”, Series American
People, 1964, o.c., 31x19”, Faith Ringgold, Inc., 1964. Individual ,
Racial, Class, National Identity
Native American, Lone Dog Winter Count, Paint on
Hide, 1800-1870, 106" x 77" (270 x 196 cm), History or
Calendars of events recorded by pictures. Cultural Identity.
Degas, The Glass of Absinthe,
1875-87, o.c., 36x27”, Musee
d’Orsay, Paris. Class Identity.
Individual, Cultural, National, Gender Identity
97
Genre or Still-Life?
98
Genre or Still-Life?
99
Rep, Non-Rep, or Abstract Portraiture?
100
Rep, Non-Rep, or Abstract Portraiture?
101
Academic or Non-Academic Artist?
102
Academic or Non-Academic Artist?
103
VISUAL COMMUNICATION
Identify Three Major Forms
104
VISUAL COMMUNICATION
Three Major Forms Representational/Objective/Figurative
recognizable objects/images unaltered and placed in
appropriate context
Non-representational/Non-objective/Non-figurative
unrecognizable images or reference to real world
usually colors, shapes, diagrams, emphasis on ve’s/pd’s
title doesn’t reflect reference to recognizable items
Abstract
Alters recognizable objects
No reference to natural objects or Distorted Reference
Depict natural objects in simplified, distorted or exaggerated
manner, or in a Different Context than normally experienced
Title may reflect reference to recognizable items/concepts…
105
ID Subject Matter:
106
ID Subject Matter:
Representational Mythological “Birth of Venus” Scene
Botticelli, The Birth of Venus, c. 1485, t.c. 107
Types of Subject Matter?
108
Types of Subject Matter? Landscapes
109
Academic or Non-Academic Art?
110
Academic or Non-Academic Art?
111
Identify Portrait & 3 icons:
112
Representational Religious Portrait of Buddha
Sanghati: monk’s robe
Ushnisha: bun at top of head/ enlightenment
Urna: dot on forehead = superior wisdom
Bird shaped eyebrows = divinity
Downcast eyes = introspection
Mudras: sacred & symbolic hand gestures
Chubby: previous wealth as prince
Long ear lobes: previous wealth as prince
(wore heavy gold earrings)
Halo: superior wisdom & light of the way
Lotus Flower: symbol of purity/divinity
Wheel of Law: dharma
Posture: meditative pose (yogi positions)
Seated under Bodhi Tree-Bodha Gaya - first
sermon (India)
113
Theme Category?
114
Love & Sex
115
Identify “type” of subject matter & how it’s presented
116
Identify “type” of subject matter & how it’s presented
Abstract Still-Life “Pepper” Abstract Still-Life “Flowers”
117
Which features an “abstract”concept of love?
118
Which features an “abstract”concept of love?
119
Fresquez, Yellow Wall, 1997, mixed media
Representational or Abstract?
120
Fresquez, Yellow Wall, 1997, mixed media
Representational or Abstract?
121
Naturalism or Idealism?
122
Naturalism or Idealism?
123
Realism or Idealism?
124
Realism or Idealism?
125
Definition of Style?
Andy Warhola/Warhol. 1966. Silkscreen ink on synthetic polymer paint on
nine canvases, Each canvas 22 1/2 x 22 1/2" (57.2 x 57.2 cm), overall 67
5/8 x 67 5/8" (171.7 x 171.7 cm), MOMA. Academic Artist, Pop Art Style, 2-
D, Self Expression
Warhol. Marilyn Diptych, 1962. O.A. silkscreen on
enamel on canvas, Saskia
Andy Warhol. Race Riot, 1963,
each 20 x 33 in., silkscreen/acrylic,
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts,
New York,
Warhol, Campbell Soup Cans, Synthetic polymer paint on thirty-
two canvases, 20 x 16″ (50.8 x 40.6 cm) each. The Museum of
Modern Art (MOMA), New York
Andy Warhol, Liz (Elizabeth Taylor), 1964,
Lithograph, MFAH 126
Style: Recognizable reoccurring characteristics featured in an artist’s (or group of artist’s) work
Andy Warhola/Warhol. 1966. Silkscreen ink on synthetic polymer paint on
nine canvases, Each canvas 22 1/2 x 22 1/2" (57.2 x 57.2 cm), overall 67
5/8 x 67 5/8" (171.7 x 171.7 cm), MOMA. Academic Artist, Pop Art Style, 2-
D, Self Expression
Warhol. Marilyn Diptych, 1962. O.A. silkscreen on
enamel on canvas, Saskia
Andy Warhol. Race Riot, 1963,
each 20 x 33 in., silkscreen/acrylic,
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts,
New York, Pop Art Style!
Warhol, Campbell Soup Cans, Synthetic polymer paint on thirty-
two canvases, 20 x 16″ (50.8 x 40.6 cm) each. The Museum of
Modern Art (MOMA), New York
Andy Warhol, Liz (Elizabeth Taylor), 1964,
Lithograph, MFAH 127
Identify type of subject matter, how it’s presented, and theme
128
Identify type of subject matter, how it’s presented, and theme
Representational Biblical Portrait of David & Goliath = “Good versus Evil”
129
Identify Artist & Style for Each Art Form!
130
Theme: David vs. Goliath/Good vs. Evil
Donatello, David, 1408, bronze
Early Italian Renaissance, Rep.
Bernini, David, 1623, marble,
Italian Baroque, Rep.
Michelangelo, David, 1501-04, marble
High Italian Ren. , Rep 131
Theme Category?
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
132
Life Cycle
View Slide Presentation for Visual Imagery Identification Details
133
Characteristics of Warhol’s Style?
134
Warhol’s Pop Art “Style”:
Typical Characteristics: Advertising Media & Techniques
(printmaking, large-scale, repetition, bold colors, mass production…)
Abstract Subject Matter Through color, placement, repetition…particularly portraiture
Popular Cultural Icons & Motifs Often advertising media imagery, famous people, cult-figures, self-portraits
Serial Imagery: multiple images viewed as a series
Repetition & Pattern
Bold Colorization
Geometric Shapes
Symmetry (sometimes extreme)
Unnatural Scale
Often Lacks Specific Focal Point, Directions Forces,
Perspective (Linear)
Goal: view entire composition at same time
135
Vocabulary Terms to Know: Quiz Yourself !
Visual Literacy
Aesthetics
“Art”
Artist(s)
Academic Artist
Non-Academic Artist
European/Western Art
Non-European/Non-Western Art
Composition
2-D (flat) versus 3-D
Medium (Media=plural)
Mixed Media
Subject Matter, Types & How Presented
Naturalism, Realism, Idealism
Theme Categories
Form
Content
Icons/Iconography
Function/Purpose
Patron
Style
Value
136
Vocabulary Terms to Know!
Visual Literacy: Using specific concepts, approaches, terminology to accurately recognize, identify, describe, interpret, evaluate, analyze, & critique a visual art form (requires Critical Thinking Skills)
Aesthetics: Branch of philosophy concerned with how a work of art looks (poor or good quality of design, coordination of
comp…)
“Art”: Use of media/techniques, with skill or will, to create a visual art form
Artist(s): Entity that creates “Art”
Academic Artist: Completed a “Formal” Art Program or Master/Apprentice Program (Michelangelo, Versace, Spike
Lee..)
Non-Academic Artist: Did not attend a formal art program/class/school (Prehistoric Artists, Native American Artists…)
European/Western Art: Art created by European and/or American Artists (or cultures that influenced European/American
art forms)
Non-European/Non-Western Art: Art created by artists not classified as European/American
Composition = Coordination of media/technique, subject matter, title, theme, formal properties, icons/iconography,
content/meaning, purpose/function to create an art form
2-D (flat) (painting, digital art, prints, drawing…) versus 3-D (not flat: architecture, sculpture, people…)
Medium (Media=plural): Material & Techniques used to create an art form (oil painting, brick structure…)
Mixed Media: More than one Medium (ex: pencil, charcoal, pastel in one drawing)
Subject Matter = “What” is depicted
Portrait, Genre, Landscape, Still-Life, Historical, Mythological, Religious, Political…
Representational (recognizable imagery)
Realism (accurate & true to nature), Naturalism (artist’s interpretation of nature), Idealism (enhances
nature/concept of “perfection”)
Abstract (distorted imagery or placed out of context)
Non-Rep (lacks subject matter/content: visual elements/principles of design (line, color, shape, balance, rep….)
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Vocabulary Terms to Know!
Theme = Universal concerns that people seek to explore and understand through art
Spiritual
Life Cycle
Love & Sex
Body, Gender, Identity
Individual and/or Cultural Identity
Power
Science, Technology, Environment
Form = “How” Subject Matter is Illustrated
Media/techniques, subject matter & presentation, visual elements/principles of design (Ch’s 4-8)
Content = Interpretation of the meaning of the artwork, theme or story
Icons/Iconography = images/motifs & accurate interpretation - helps to determine content
Function/Purpose = “Why” art form was created
(Aesthetics, Personal, Utilitarian, Social, Political, Communicate, Educate, Economic…)
Patron = person or people who hire, purchase, own, maintain, or ask artist to create an art form
Style: Distinctive handling of elements & media/techniques associated with art created by either an individual
artist, “School”, movement, culture, or time period
Value = Worth of a work of art (intrinsic/extrinsic); educational, monetary, political, communicative, spiritual,
cultural, social…
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Fichner-Rathus, Lois. Understanding Art. 9th ed. Boston, MA: Wadsworth, 2010.
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2294/I/1936. https://www.gucci.com/us/en/lo/runway-c-runway
Hall, James. Illustrated Dictionary of Symbols in Eastern and Western Art. New York: Harper Collins, Inc., 1996.
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KhanAcademy. Khan Academy/Smarthistory, 2016. https://smarthistory.org/
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-----. Gardner’s Art Through the Ages Multimedia Manager CD. 11th ed. New York: Hartcourt, 2011.
Lee, Spike. When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts, 2006. Film, 4 hours. Parts 1 & 2 on Youtube.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12xj1sHvIWA
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Bibliography Continued…
“Modern Architecture" The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. . Encyclopedia.com. 2 Jun.
017<http://www.encyclopedia.com>.
Pack, Bob. Bob Pack: Major Installations. Sugarland, TX: Pack Sports Bronzes, 2010.
http://www.bobpack.com/installation.html#
Postal, Dr. Matthew A. and Dr. Steven Zucker, "Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Seagram Building, New York City,"
in Smarthistory, November 25, 2015.
https://smarthistory.org/ludwig-mies-van-der-rohe-seagram-building-new-york-city/
Saskia Images. Saskia, Ltd. Portland, Maine: 2001-20015. http://www.saskia.com/
Sayre, Henry M. A World of Art, 6th ed., New York: Prentice Hall, 2010.
-------- A World of Art, 8th ed., New York: Prentice Hall, 2016.
-------- “Instructor Visual Image Bank”, A World of Art, 8th ed., New York: Prentice Hall, 2016
Schneider – Adams, Laurie. Art Across Time Vol 1: Prehistory to the Fourteenth Century. 3rd edition. New York: McGraw
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