From reading my first blog and looking through the lessons I
have concluded that they were met, in fact the amount of knowledge that was
attained exceeded my standards, which is a great thing. As for the question of “What is art” I still
have a similar perception, however rather than only thinking that art can be whatever
a person deems as art I know understand the concepts, processes for making art,
as well as the various forms of art and the significance that they have in
society. Additionally, my favorite artist
still is Dr. Jack Kevorkian, but I now have a plethora of favorite
artists. One in particular is Donatello,
this choice occurred due to his brilliant sculpting’s and philosophical
presence in every work of art that he created, truly astonishing. Another is Leonardo da Vinci because of his
intelligence and ability to take his ideas and make them come to light,
personally I think that no other artist or other person has done the amount of
work that he has and been so influential in society. The difference between my favorite artists
currently and at the beginning of this course is with the significance and
impact that works of art specifically had, Dr. Kevorkian had a huge impact on
society with his medical philosophy, but not his art. This is completely different when compared to
Donatello and Leonardo da Vinci.
Moreover, the reason why I still enjoy Dr. Kevorkian’s works of art is
because of my “freedom of choice” thinking and the ways in which his actions
are an example of my thoughts. Lastly,
after completing this course and several others via the internet I am now more
confident about these types of courses.
Because of this course and the others I have registered for one online
course in the following semester, thanks Ms. Tabone, I learned a lot and
thoroughly enjoyed taking this course!
Friday, August 10, 2012
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Week Fifteen- Art Gallery Visit #3: Self-Portraits Art Making/Material Exploration Blog
For this project I chose three specific self-portraits
because of their surreal characteristics, also, because I enjoy works of art
that are less realistic as well as having a somewhat "cartoony" appeal to
them. Moreover, I think paintings that
have qualities like this convey a better sense of creativity for particular
artists, rather than attempting to depict a duplicate copy of an image it
allows an artist to step outside of the traditional guidelines and into a world
of imagination. Additionally, I chose acrylic
and water color paint because it was available; I have yet to indulge in the
use of oil paints or any other forms of paint because of the dedication that is
necessary for obtaining my college degree.
Some of
the challenges that I faced during the creation of this project was overcoming
the thinking about what I was doing (the painting) and if it was up to a
professional’s standards. I understand
that I am an amateur artist, probably not even that, but the insecure thought
process was difficult to overcome.
Specifically, this piece represents myself through my thinking and physical
characteristics. The thinking can
explained by the content of the painting and how it was done, the use of natural and
unnatural colors, as for the physical aspect I think that I did a great job at
capturing the features in my face and hair, as well as the type of clothes I
wear, if that makes sense. The elements
and principles that I incorporated into my self-portrait are shape, value,
color, space, and unity. Particularly
because of the hues I used, the two-dimensional structure, spacing between the
image and background, and natural flow of the painting (how everything seems to
complement one another, unity). Lastly,
I thought this project was great and I am extremely proud of my finished
product. As aforementioned I was insecure during the process of making the
self-portrait, however, this was easily circumvented after I came to the
conclusion that I enjoy painting and creating art regardless of others opinions
and most importantly I think the portrait is quite unique and "hip." Below are the inspirational pieces,
photograph used for the self-portrait, and the painting itself. Enjoy!
Salvador Dali
Self-portrait with the neck of Raphael
1920-1921
Oil on canvas
41.5x53cm
Pablo Picasso
Self-portrait
1907
Oil on canvas
Benjamin J. Bolton
Self-portrait
2012
Acrylic and water color paint on canvas
16" x 10"
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Project #5 Art Criticism Article
The exhibition that I chose to critique was Maggie Hartig’s The Balance of Life: The Elements of Life, the reason why I chose to critique this exhibition rather than any others that I viewed is because I also have a passion for nature and enjoying seeing the natural phenomena’ that is associated with it. Moreover, I had very few challenges because in regards to the critiquing because the exhibition was put together very well. However, this may be due to my standards that include not being a cynical rectal cavity when it comes to my commenting on my fellow students assignments, I tend to understand that all student are in the process of learning and that there no such thing as a perfect student. Additionally, I would be very interested in reading the reviews on my exhibition, how can a person not be interested? Lastly, this project was great; I think that more student reviews should be included in every course so that a better understanding of one’s work is gained, as well as attaining a necessary formal relationship. On a scale of one-to-ten I would rate my article in the middle, a five to be precise. The reason why is because I thoroughly enjoying writing articles ( I have my own blog about the fallacies in the criminal justice system), however, this area is not my expertise and I found it somewhat difficult to properly critique an article because of my lack of experience. Nevertheless, the project and course was a great experience and I do think that I will be able to use the acquired knowledge during and after my career search.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Week Fifteen - Video Review Blog
The two films that I chose had a
great influence on my interpretation of art and general understanding about the
creation of works of art during specific periods of human history. Moreover, there were key concepts retained
from both of these films that have provided me with a greater appreciation for
the fine art as well as a more in depth comprehension of world history.
Greenberg on Art Criticism: An Interview
by T. J. Clark
With this film I was able to retain
the difficulties associated with critiquing works of art as well as how
particular stints of history have heavily influenced the works of art that were
made during these periods. Particularly
with the writing about works of art I found that it is more difficult than
expected, meaning that it is not a simple process and incorporates a unique
vocabulary in order to explain the thoughts and emotions that stem from the
works of art. Furthermore, the process
of selecting pieces that stand out from the majority of others is quite
extensive. In this film the process was
discussed and allowed to notice the required education and other knowledge so
that this form of opinion can be verified.
An Introduction to the Italian
Renaissance (Giorgio Vasari)
As for this film I was able to
grasp the important influence that Italian artists had on the Renaissance in
its entirety. Also, by learning about
the specific artists’ that became fundamental in the arts then and even
currently provided an accurate depiction of the significance that art has in
the world. Many artists during the Italian
Renaissance were seen as much more than creative or artsy people, many of them
had connections with public or religious administrators and were even sought
out for advice. Moreover, I learned
about the various forms of artwork and how they evolved from past renditions,
and how they perpetuated the cycle by helping future artists in their works of
art.
Lastly, I thought that the films
complimented the reading quite well because they brought an in depth
understanding to specific material in the text and modules. Also, the films provided a visual and sophisticated
discussion from professionals that know more about the subject than most
people. This knowledge was outstanding
and brought elated feelings. I thoroughly
enjoyed watching these films due the facts and lessons that is attached to
them. Without the viewing of these films
I would not have had a clearer thought process about the significance that art
has in the world. Again, the films were
great and quite informative, which are my type of motion pictures!
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Project Four: Art Curator Exhibition Slideshow
Art Curator Exhibition Reflection
During the creation of this process I was able to gain and
retain the fundamental ideas and physicality that goes into being an art
curator. Specifically, the thought
process of how to deliver an exhibit that is unique and able to attract and
maintain an audience was a constant thought in my head while constructing this
exhibition. Furthermore, the selection
of pieces was more difficult than expected; correlating works of art that would
solidify the theme of the exhibition had a careful and detailed requirement
attached to it. Lastly, I thought that
this project was great because it provided an understanding how much work goes
into this type of occupation, prior to learning about this subject I was under
the impression that curator’s only categorized art and then attempted to find
the space for particular themes to be viewed, I quickly learned that this is
not the scenario at all.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Week Thirteen and Fourteen - Blog: Video Review
The Lowdown on Lowbrow: West Coast Pop Art
The key concepts I learned in the
video has specifics and general parameters in regards to the organizing and
displaying works of art. Specifically, I
learned that art galleries can take on particular themes and still appeal to
people in a general application. In the
Lowbrow gallery the display of various pop-arts has made the gallery unique in
the art profession as well as in allowing artists that may usually be deemed as
radical to exhibit their works of art in traditional and professional
structure. As aforementioned the
general parameters include the traditional approach to displaying art for
anyone who desires to view it. Even
though the works of art may be unique when compared to other subject matters
the appealing influence upon viewers is still present. Meaning that regardless of the type of art
that is being displayed there is still an inclination for art enthusiasts to go
and check out what works of art is being displayed. Moreover, I think that one major concept that
this gallery conveys is that art can be a residual effect of society, hence the
reason why a lot of the works of art seem to be inspired by the culture and
elements of society that were present during the creative process of making the
work of art.
Displaying Modern Art: The Tate Approach
I
enjoyed this film the most in comparison to the other films because it steps
away from the actual content or subject of works of art and discusses how
unique and innovative ways for displaying them is important. Additionally, I found that this approach separated
itself from traditional chronological displaying and other forms by using
various implementations for space, viewer interactions, and sound. Lastly, another great concept that was
attained from watching this film was how this approach incorporated the
importance of emotions, aesthetic effects, and social vision into the
displaying of works of art.
Bones of Contention: Native American Archaeology
Upon
watching this film I was able to retain a new found intelligence in regards to
science, archeology, and the mitigating circumstances that are associated with
this occupation. Also, by watching the
film a comprehension about how archeology is considered a form of art became
noticed. Before watching this film I
always considered this occupation as an occupation that attempts to discover
and understand the past, whereas now I correlate this activity with the world
of art. In addition to all of these
educational acknowledgements I also have gained a more in depth understanding
about how this activity has negative occurrences that are similar to the
traditional dilemmas that involved with the world of art. Meaning that there are always discrepancies
about an artist’s motive and behavior when they become involved with specific
content (i.e. negative stereotypes, alleged misconduct, and ways of life), this
similarity brings attention to the unique perspectives and characteristics of
the people associated with the world of art.
An Acquiring Mind: Philippe de Montebello and The Metropolitan
This
film was great and gave me the knowledge about how important an art curator’s
occupation is as well as how it can also be considered a form of artwork
too. Furthermore, the understanding of
the detail that goes into displaying specific works of art and overall
exhibition was astonishing. Prior to
viewing this film I thought that this occupation was very simple and required
the hanging of paintings and finding an adequate amount of space for others,
however, this idea was easily eliminated.
Another key concept I learned from this film is how innovative
techniques must be applied to give the museum or gallery a unique aspect so
that it can ensure that an audience will come and continue to visit.
After
watching all four of these films I was able to find similarities to my art
exhibition project due the arraignment and flow of pieces to hopefully gain
specific emotions and thought processes by the viewer. Also, I have decided to incorporate various
works of art that stand out from the others so that a “wow” factor is attained,
which in turn should make the viewer to want to continue on with the tour as
well as come back to see the other projects I plan on doing as well. Moreover, I thought that these films were awesome;
they gave me new ideas and knowledge about how to make exhibitions stand out
and maintain an audience. Lastly, the
films also gave me insight about much detail and appreciation goes into making
art galleries and museums presentable.
Without this application many of these places would be mundane and have
difficulties attracting and sustaining an audience.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Week Eleven - Art Gallery Visit #2
Foods-R-U.S.
The theme of Cheryl Jackson’s
exhibit is centered on the idea that the United States is highly influenced and
characterized by the food industry as well as television and the elements
associated with it. As for the set-up of
this exhibition it requires a significant amount of space, electricity, and a particular
arrangement of the materials.
Furthermore, the lighting required to view this installation is not very
exquisite, meaning that ordinary forms of lighting can be used to view this
work of art and still portray the piece in its entirety. In addition to the external scenery the color
of the walls in the gallery are not painted with specific hues, this occurs
because the materials in the work of art convey a thought process from the
objects already used, hence the reason why particular wall colors are not
necessary. Moreover, the materials used in
this installation can be considered common objects in the daily lives of Americans. The use of the television set, eating trays,
chairs, food packages, and juvenile toys all expel the idea that there are two
themes being presented. Firstly, the incorporation
of the everyday items displays the idea that there is a commonality amongst all
Americans, which is the way in that family bonding has been influenced by the
products of society. Secondly, the
installation posits the notion that Americans have become very lethargic and
less active in the traditional communication process. A statement like this suggests that people in
the country are easily circumvented by entertainment and advertising, again,
which brings a dumbing affect to the individuals that are participating in this
form of behavior. Lastly, the
organization and proximity ( in comparison to the other works of art in the
gallery) of this installation allows viewers to walk around the work of art,
this gives different viewing points, and also this movement allows the viewer
to focus on particular objects with various thinking processes being attained.
Cheryl Jackson
Foods-R-U.S.1998
Gio’s Summer Dress
As for
this work of art the theme is difficult to verify because of the simplicity it
projects when viewed from a distance.
However, this thought process is changed when the viewer steps closer to
the piece and realizes the detail that is incorporated into it. Specifically, this work of art has general
sculpture look but with an expressionism twist to it, also, it uses a unique
material that sets it further apart from traditional sculptures. For this exhibit there was no obscure
organization involved, again, if a viewer was walking through the gallery this
piece would stand out, however not because of any special lighting or amount of
space it takes up. The proximity of this
work of art in comparison to others is somewhat different for numerous
reasons. One in particular is because
the sculpture is three-dimensional and brightly colored. Another reason is because it stands on a base
while most of the other works of art are flat and hung on the wall. Lastly,
this piece has abstract appeal to it as well as surreal, mostly because of the
detail of the material and the unusual look of the piece.
Gio's Summer Dress, 2012
Metal sculpture
World Peace
This
work of art has a theme about how human beings and their actions, mostly
associated with war and other disheartening events. Also, the piece includes the concept about
how small and irrelevant humans are in the universe. The artists uses a surreal composition for
her work by making the objects in the work of art larger than they would
normally appear, as well as look different too.
Additionally, the organization for the piece is quite extensive, it
requires a lot of space, allows the viewer to walk around the work of art as
well as through the center of it. There
is no specific lighting but this installation has does have a close proximity
in regards to the other objects in the work of art. Furthermore, the use of ceramic and wood is
difficult to notice, each object has an insidious look of plastic or plaster,
however this not the case. Moreover, it
is these characteristics that made World Peace unique from the majority of
works of art in the gallery, again, mostly due to the fact that all the other
works of art were flat. Lastly, this
work of art incorporates the use of surrealism and expressionism, also the
theme of concept art can be attached to it.
World Peace
Ceramic and wood
I
thought that this art gallery visit was amazing; since it was my first time in
the gallery I was astonished by how new and organized it was in comparison to
the other galleries I have visited. In
regards to stepping out of my realm as viewing the art from a different
perspective I was able to gain a new insight about how works of art can be
understood and appreciated. By using all
the elements for this project I gained a new respect and comprehension of how
art can view by others, and not only my perspective.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Week Twelve - Blog: Video Review
I chose to view the films Isamu Noguchi: The Sculpture of
Spaces and Andy Warhol: Images of an Image because of my interest for both sculpting
and art specifically by Andy Warhol.
Moreover, I thought these films would enhance my comprehension of
specific forms of art and be able to provide a professional discussion about
them.
The key concepts I learned from the Isamu Noguchi: The
Sculpture of Spaces are:
·
Sculptures
take a lot of time to finish
·
They can use a small or large amount of space
·
Use an array of materials
·
Invoke emotions and thoughts
·
Be surreal and realistic
The Key concepts I learned from the Andy Warhol: Images of
an Image are:
·
The creativity that goes into specific works of
art
·
How works of art can have “mini” works of art in
them as well
·
Can project particular thoughts and images
·
Bring movement and other forms of participation
·
Allow positions on specific issues to be noticed
Overall, I thought that the videos were outstanding,
specifically the one about sculpting.
However, both of the films were able to bring a better comprehension
about how works of art are created and finished. Lastly, the films brought the idea of the
various forms of art and artists that are and have been participating in the
art world. Again, I thought the films
were outstanding.
Week Eleven - Blog: Video Review
Cubism and Expressionism have now
been added to my favorite forms of art, the reason is because of the content
and form that is usually involved in these works of art. Specifically with cubism I enjoy the
fragmentation and use of geometric and naturalistic lines that give the images
or subjects matter their shape. Any form
of art that incorporates the attainment of particular emotions and thoughts is
great in my opinion. Expressionism art’s
use of subjective style gives it a unique twist in comparison to other forms of
art, which in turn allows me to appreciate it more than other forms of
art. Mostly, I enjoyed watching these
films because they conveyed how these forms of art are interpreted by the
viewer and creator; also, they gave me a new found intelligence about how and
why some of the specific works of art achieved their purpose.
For each video list/discuss the key
concepts you learned.
The key concepts I learned from The
Impact of Cubism are:
·
Cubism uses shapes more than entire images
·
They can be both geometric shapes and natural
shapes
·
Can be used in other works of art besides
painting
·
Allow viewers to notice particular segments of
the work of art
The key concepts I learned from the Expressionism film are:
·
It incorporates vivid imagination
·
Is not realistic at times
·
Allows the artist to utilize their creativity
without conforming to other forms of content
·
Can look similar to abstract art
I thought that the videos related to the readings in the
text quite well. Moreover, they allowed
me to gain more insight about each category of art and the artist that utilize
this form of art. Lastly, I thought that
the videos were great; they discussed many things that were not mentioned in
the text. This in turn gave me a better
understanding about the forms of art.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Week Ten- Art Making/Material Exploration Blog: Mask Making
I think that African art provides
great depictions of creativity and authentic influence when it comes to masks
for ritual or celebrations. This is the
reason why I chose to use African masks as my foundation for creating my own
work of art. Also, it is reasonable to
say that the masks are much different from other cultures in the world, which
is another reason why I enjoy viewing them so much.
In regards to the analysis and
description of the mask I created it provides an appearance that the mask has
some significance in regards to important things in my life, school and
learning awesome information about things that will certainly be retained. Furthermore, the use of bright colors and
particular shapes gives the viewing of the mask an energetic emotion and is
able to bring the viewer to an idea that the mask is used for important
purposes.
Below are my sketches of the mask I created and the other masks I used for inspiration.
Below are the final version of the mask I completed.
The elements that were used in the
final version of my mask are shapes and mass because of the three dimensional
characteristics as well as complementary coloring and emotional effects of
coloring, this occurs because each of the colors used is the category of
primary and are able to build an impression from one another. For this creation the principles that are
incorporated into this project are emphasis because the image has a red hue in
the front and capture the attention from the rest of the object (the
mask). Another principle that could be
used are the scale and principle characteristics, mostly because the mask is
able to generate thoughts about how big it is compared to its environment, as
well as the person wearing it, which is me.
My thought about this project is an
optimistic approach. I thoroughly
enjoyed be creative and attempting to express my thoughts through three dimensional
forms. I found it difficult because of
all the responsibilities I juggle, however, during the creativity process and
actual construction of the mask I noticed that I was enduring elated feelings. Again, I think art is great, because the
projects and readings I now understand why it is required as an elective for
studying. It allows a person to see how
art has a major influence on all of society.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Week Ten - Blog: Video Review
For this video review I chose the African Art and Buddhism
films due to the fact that they incorporate my favorite forms of living. Each way of life expounds the fundamental
reasoning for human existence and how every other element in the world in unnecessary
and irrelevant.
African Art
During
this film I was able to appreciate the necessities of life and how they can
influence artistic creativity. Moreover,
it allowed me to understand that indigenous or art created in cultures without
modern materials can be equivalent to the talent and intelligence that it takes
to make other forms of art.
Additionally, I gained a new respect for the difference of livelihoods
and how they each influence the artistic works in their specific culture.
Buddhism
Buddhism
is my favorite way of life because it appreciates the basic understanding of
how suffering does not have to occur and how each person can reach this
prosperous living. The works of art that
arose from the people in this culture expel how they thought and lived, their
understanding of how life can a pleasant experience if certain gals are achieved. Furthermore, their respect for their
environment also demonstrates how and why their sculptures, architecture,
paintings, and other forms of art are created.
Basically, they used their philosophy as a foundation for the initiation
of creativity, which happened all over the world but the Buddhists seemed to
actually live this way.
I
thought that the films related to the chapter quite well because of the topics
discussed, particularly with how works of art were influenced. The films were able to give an in depth
understanding as to why the Buddhists lived the life that they did and why
their artwork reflected this choice.
Overall, I thought these films have been the best thus far for numerous
reasons. One in particular is because I
am an atheist and find religion and the culture surrounding it to be
fascinating, mostly because the majority of the world is religious is some
way. Another reason why I enjoyed these
two films has already been mentioned, with each of these cultures simplifying
life and attempting to achieve the fundamental requirements for prosperous
living is highly respectable in my opinion.
Great videos, I would like to view more films that incorporate how works
of art are influenced by the culture that they derive from, outstanding.
Week Nine - Blog: Video Reviews
Since I enjoy many forms of art I
found it difficult to pick only two films, however because I also enjoy compromising
decided to view only two films, they were: The Drawings of Michelangelo and The
Power of Art: Carravaggio. The reason
why I chose the two films is related to the readings from the chapter and the
interest that generated because of them.
The Drawing of Michelangelo
A lot of information was able to be
retained by watching this film in regards to the intelligence and talent Michelangelo
had. Specifically, I was amazed that he
was so talented with only one or two materials.
When I viewed at his drawings I was amazed that this were done prior to
any modern technological developments and are still interesting to look at
after the many years that have passed.
Moreover, I the lesson that I was able to learn that had the most
prominence was how Michelangelo used his artwork as way to deliver messages or
communicate his thoughts without any verbalization, extremely fascinating.
The Power of Art: Carravaggio
This film was amazing, the works of
art that were done by Carravaggio are very realistic and convey the sense that
it must take an extreme amount of talent and energy to do the type of work he
has done. Also, I was able to comprehend
how some of his works of art implemented religious characteristics into
them. This speaks volumes because of the
era of history in which he lived, it also construes the thought that this
structure of living was common and influenced his creativity,
Each video related to text in a suitable
fashion, however with these specific chapters I was able to gain a better
understanding of the era’s and types of art that was created from the
films. They gave me an ideal perspective
on the specific lives of each artist and the period of history in which they
lived. During the films I constantly
kept thinking about what it must have been like to live during this period of
history as well to walk amongst the artists that were popular then, and even
currently. Lastly, I thought the films
were awesome; I really enjoy learning about things that are not in my curriculum
because they always astonish me. Also,
the films were able to give me a better appreciation for history in a more specific
sense rather than the general theme we were all taught as juveniles.
Week Nine - Art Making/Material Exploration Drawings - Exploring Line
Well, for this project I found it
to be very fun, but frustrating at the same time. The fun derived from being
able to make some kick ass art regardless of how inept I am in regards to the
complications that arose from not being ambidextrous. Moreover, I found using my hand as a subject
was interesting and extremely difficult.
Interesting because I rarely look at my hand and am amazed that it has
so much detail involved, great natural art from my perspective and it provides
an in depth view into how advanced art can be.
Additionally, it was difficult to draw such detail because of my limited
ability, especially when I switched to my inferior hand.
I chose to use pencil because of
prior experiences with charcoal, usually I end up making a mess and smudging it
all over the paper or other material and somewhat ruin the artwork. Hence, the reason why I chose to utilize lead
this time.
In regards to drawing the right
hand with my non-dominate hand it was extremely irritating because I was unable
to generate the flow and detail I aspired. Furthermore, with regards to
studying art I have an acquiescent approach to my drawings. Mostly because I do not think they are not
that great, however, if an artist could depict an image with precision then I
certainly think that it place in academia could be astounding. Lastly, I would consider using my
non-dominant hand in other works of art because it can bring a new approach or
even form of creativity to the piece that I am doing. I never thought that using a “weak hand” for
a sophisticated purpose could be useful, it unusual to think about, however it
does its benefits. Below, is my ATTEMPT at this project, enjoy!
Friday, July 13, 2012
Module Eight Video Reviews
After going through the list of
videos I chose three that I thought would be the most entertaining. The standards that I set for picking these
films included my passion for history, art, and Greek philosophy, which in turn
made specific films stand out.
Furthermore, another reason why I chose the three films is because they
are closely related to the material that has been recently covered in class. I thought by implementing my particular
interests into the relevant coursework that it would allow a greater appreciation
and understanding towards the inquiry to art.
Additionally, from watching the various films I was able to learn new
things that brought a sense of fondness and a more thorough comprehension of
the art world.
More Human than Human
In this film there were many
educational concepts that I retained and will be able to transfer in my life
professionally and personally.
Specifically, the most prevalent idea was how the film discussed how
each culture incorporated the human body in many of their works of art. Whether it was realistic, unrealistic, or a
form of memorial each civilization used depictions of the human body as a
representation of art. Moreover, another educational lesson that I was
able to comprehend and utilize in a useful manner was in regards to the
consistency that the Egyptians carried through their human body artwork
throughout each period in their civilization.
By learning this I was able to acknowledge how traditions in art are carried
on and how significant it can be in cultures.
It is as if each artist builds or evolves from each other and implements
the evolution of art into their particular piece.
The Greek Awakening: Art from 5th
Century BC
This film was great because of the
history involved and how it pertains to Western civilization. Particularly I thought that how the film
discussed the revolution of arts, theatre, philosophy, and other elements of
the culture was fundamental for understanding the entire film. Without acknowledging the foundation of the
art field it would be difficult to understand why and how the culture created
specific works of art. Greek
architecture and realism would not have an in depth understanding that is known
today without the revolution in ideas and art, it is these components that
engineered and developed the Greek civilization which then transitioned into
the development of the Western world today.
The Measure of All Things: Greek Art and
the Human Figure
For this film I was able to take
away the specific materials and thinking that the Greek artists used in regards
to their creativity. Moreover, the
discussion of the film allowed me to understand how this culture viewed art and
the human body. Their use of realism in
sculptures and pottery demonstrates how serious and sophisticated they were in
everything that they did, well in my opinion at least. Lastly, the Greek obsession with realism and
movement illustrates how they were fascinated with the human body; this
fascination suggests that the Greek’s understood how vital humankind had become
in changing the world and understanding it.
Each of these videos related to the
material in this module in a plausible fashion.
With watching these videos I was able to comprehend the reading and pictures
of artwork with a clearer understanding.
They allowed a deeper vision to be brought to light and gave a
conclusion that exemplified why learning about this subject matter is
necessary. Basically, it gave an
appreciation and comprehension to how art has evolved and why it is done in
specific forms currently, history and cultures tuned their creativity to the
cultures and time periods that they lived during.
Again I was amazed at the breadth
of knowledge that was accumulated in these videos. The discussions about cultural influences in
art posited the notion that art has a significant role in any
civilization. Also, the idea that
societal elements and common thoughts, or morality is expounded when viewing
art in specific eras suggests that creativity has enormous impact on
cultures. For example, the sculptures,
paintings, pottery, and other forms of art depict a general thought process in
regards to a specific culture, which in turn transferred these thoughts and
creative processes into further generations.
Hence the reason why art and creativity has always been a part of human
civilization and will continue to be for many future generations, the ideas and
artistic creativity give a civilization a face or image that others can
comprehend, or at least attempt to.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Week Seven - Blog: Video Review
Upon watching the four films I have
been able to comprehend numerous concepts about the architecture throughout history
and how the design process is initiated.
Specifically, I will discuss key educational elements that I have been
able to take away from each video.
Prairie Style
In this video I was able to
understand how an architect, specifically with Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs, are
able to generate a phenomenon is designing and that by implementing the environmental
elements into the design can create exquisite characteristics throughout the
entire structure. Moreover, I thought
that horizontal and layering that Wright used was great, his recognition of how
to utilize an environment and incorporate it into a designing process is
profound and at the time monumental in the field of architecture.
Architecture: The Science of Design
This film was my favorite of the
four that I viewed, the reason is due to the explanation of materials used and
how it has evolved in the modern technological era. Particularly when the narrator and architects
explained why nature has a major impact on designing and the materials used I
gained an appreciation for the effort and planning that goes into making
certain structures safe and impervious to damage from these elements of nature
as well. Moreover the “smart apartments”
section was amazing, I do not think that many human beings are able to indulge
in such a technologically induced living currently, but the fact that these
designs are available is remarkable. The
amount of time and effort that goes into the wiring, set-up, and personal
requests must take a very long time to properly administer.
Classical Architecture
After watching this film I was able
to appreciate and acknowledge the Greek and Roman civilizations further. I always knew that these cultures have been a
major influence on a lot of the things that are around currently, but the
influence of architecture was a new found intelligence. The use of columns and arches is quite
prevalent in societies across the planet and is probably not even noticed or
understood that these two civilizations are responsible for these design
elements. Furthermore, it amazing that
the past cultures of the world are able to resurrect their presence with
architectural components; this is what the thing I learned and found
astonishing the most. History and art
can be correlated as most of the other societal elements in the world.
Last Call for Planet Earth: Sustainable
Development and Architecture
Similar ideas and characteristic of
my personality are exemplified in this film.
The understanding that beauty and permanence can be incorporated
together and still adhere to positive ecological issues is always a fine thing
in my opinion. Additionally, the most
prominent educational lesson that I took away from this video was about the use
of renewable materials and using the climate to help design a specific
structure. This outstanding cooperation
between architects and the environment should be more common, possibly even
regulated so that the present and future generations are able to live in an
environment that is not assaulting them.
Even if humans are the main culprit in creating the destruction or
demise of an environment it does not make it righteous. By implementing materials and a design that
are more environmental friendly always have positive results for everyone. Great film, this was my second favorite!
Each video encompassed numerous
sections from the chapters in the text and brought a further understanding of
the how the study of art or inquiry of art can be transferable into other parts
of life. Meaning that I now have a more
in depth comprehension and appreciation of how and why certain things in the community
are considered to be art and how and why they are designed, it serves as an enhancement
and maturity in a person (me). One
example that comes to my mind that is located in the Western New York Area is
the Botanical Gardens. Yes, I understand
that it is a greenhouse, but, it still represents the usage of the ideas in
regards to sustainable developments (eco-friendly and green architecture), and
all other concepts in the films and chapters (all of them not only this one). If decomposition is properly used all of the
design processes discussed and elements or principles of art are exhibited in
this structure, good stuff!
As aforementioned my opinion of the
films is that they were again outstanding.
Since I am a reading-type of person the films always help me bring the
confusion or doubts I have about anything to an end. There were parts of the book that I had to
read over or stop and take a few minutes to digest, however, when I viewed the
films I was able to grasp the concept and move forth with confidence. The visual representation and actually being
able to hear and see what an architect is thinking while in “design mode” solidified
the thought that this is a combination of art and science, two great things!
The reason why I chose the “Last
Call for Planet Earth” video is because it pertained to a lot of the things I
think about on a daily basis, and not only in the realm of the art field. Ecology and innovation is always on my mind,
I think it may stem from the nerdy/hippy in me, however, I think these things
are vital for maintaining a positive place to live in. Who wants to worry about atrocious living
conditions, or not having any creativity to help enhance the personal and general
livelihood of human beings? Once more,
the films were great, especially the “Science of Design” video!
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Art Making/Material Exploration Number 3: Installation
Works of art that are categorized into
the genre of “installation” can encompass many forms of creativity and uses of
space. Since installation art requires
an amount of space these works of art endure a lengthy process and thorough
dedication in order to achieve the artist’s goal (in professional standards). Additionally, the materials that are
implemented into these works of art come from an enormous category and artists
can even use utilitarian objects or create new objects to install into their
artwork. Specifically the materials can be explained as being general art
materials (various kinds of paint, metals, acrylics, ceramic, etc…) and an
array of objects or other materials that the artists is implementing into his
or her work of art. For example, an
artist can use an object they put together (i.e. Welded metallic materials that
do not have a common appearance, or do have a common appearance) and then use
the common materials such as paint or plaster to highlight the emotions and
thoughts behind the work of art as well as giving the creative work a more
significant appearance (i.e. Painting the welded metallic materials, adding
acrylic, or other things to form the completed version of the work of art.) The length of a discussion that can be
generated from the use of materials in a work of art that is deemed in the
category of installation is extremely long and can transition into a
conversation that almost never ends, hence the general and brief explanation aforementioned.
The reasons for making an installation
work of art has numerous reasons, one being that is was the artist chooses to
partake in. A second reason is a more
common goal of artists, it allows for an expression on emotions and thoughts
from both the artist and the viewers.
Lastly, I think installations have a purpose of utilizing the space
around a person so a different perception and act of viewing is achieved, by
using a larger space it changes the interaction of the viewer, he or she is not
looking straight ahead or from a specific angle, by doing this I think a
different perception is attained because the actions of movement from the eyes,
and limbs, which in turn transitions into a process of thoughts that have a
quicker succession. Moreover, the artist
that I found to be the most appealing was Suzanne Hiller, mostly due to her
outlook on what installation artwork can be.
Particularly, when she expounds how a viewer standing in the center of a
four-walled video image is considered to be an artwork of the installation
category solidified my opinion on this debate of what standards are associated
for this form of art, which is however an artist chooses to utilize the
space.
As for the themes that I wanted to
incorporate in my form of installation art I chose; environment, self, and the
human experience theme. The reason is
because I enjoy observing my experiences in life and projecting them as an
influence into the idea of how humans are so busy that they forget to realize
all the things that are in their life, and how so many people are caught up in
the technology craze. For example, I
tried to create a unique visual into my routine for work and how this is seen
as so mundane for me. However, if I were
to compare this experience to another person’s routine it would not come close to what they see
as normal, or common. Hence, the reason
why I chose to take photographs and videos of my bedroom, videos of my feet on the
walk to work, the deceased chicken on skewers, and the end result of the
night. Additionally, I attempted convey
a sense that my life in general is art, and If I stop to look at my environment
it is possible to use creativity to release those endorphins in the brain,
naturally of course. Overall, I used
materials that that range from an iPhone, the contrast options of my video elements
(to capture my Sideways Walk in the Digital World) and my mind. Still, I found this project to be difficult
because I envisioned my installation to be a theatre-like environment with
specific music attached to it, however, I do not have the resources for this;
try to use your imagination. Also, I spun each video and added distortion to create the thought about how direction and perception can be altered in life, meaning that it can take a only a few mintues to drastically change a person's life, as well as to convey the thought that I think most people live a world that too much mundane activities. Below, The videos and photographs are set up in a specific order, and SUPPOSED to be projected on a four-walled theatre-like environment with specific music attached.
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