Friday, October 28, 2011
Friday, October 21, 2011
Essay #2B Completeness and truth
Essay #2B:Completeness and Truth
How is it possible that what the egyptians considered "completeness",could be misinterpreted as crude,naive,or unrealistic and how does it affect the "truth" contained in their art?
Part One: Summary:I experienced many similar facts while researching ancient egypt, but the facts are not what you,as the reader,are looking for in this piece. I had to take in the symbolism,ideology,and proverb,and blend it evenly with common knowledge of mankind,Artwork and design. It all comes down to,"C'mon,people, get the big picture." I kept thinking to myself "Who would criticize this work??"
How is it possible that what the egyptians considered "completeness",could be misinterpreted as crude,naive,or unrealistic and how does it affect the "truth" contained in their art?
Part One: Summary:I experienced many similar facts while researching ancient egypt, but the facts are not what you,as the reader,are looking for in this piece. I had to take in the symbolism,ideology,and proverb,and blend it evenly with common knowledge of mankind,Artwork and design. It all comes down to,"C'mon,people, get the big picture." I kept thinking to myself "Who would criticize this work??"
Reason:I believe the reason this question was asked of us would be because ancient Egypt is a very important part of art history,influencing almost countless cultures including Greek, Roman, and African. Art History ALSO happens to be the name of this particular course. What a coincidence!
Purpose: Similar to Ancient egyptian art, this question had a higher purpose intended for it. This was to REALLY get a grasp on these ancient people's outlook on life, how their artwork represented this, and the way that their convention worked and lasted.It's the comprehension of knowlege and insight that I believe you are seeking.
Direction:During my research I found myself more completely understanding Egyptian Ideals,and design tactics. Thus, I approached with a newer respect and perspectives.
Impressions:I've known since elementary school that the Egyptians used symbols to communicate thoughts and happenings, and of course built pyramids. But looking at the bigger picture, everything that they created was devout, fantastic art that represented things deeper than the eyes alone can see.
Direction:During my research I found myself more completely understanding Egyptian Ideals,and design tactics. Thus, I approached with a newer respect and perspectives.
Impressions:I've known since elementary school that the Egyptians used symbols to communicate thoughts and happenings, and of course built pyramids. But looking at the bigger picture, everything that they created was devout, fantastic art that represented things deeper than the eyes alone can see.
If you look at works of the Ancient Egyptians, in a literal sense, just LOOK at it and seek no knowledge further than plain appearance, You will not be able to comprehend it for all it is and stands for. Yeah, it’s big and magnificent, and yes, it’s pretty and fancy. Or you may think,"These cartoons and symbols make no sense to me..." But why? In order to understand Egyptian art, you must also comprehend the timeless style and reflection of culture as well. When in observation of any art or artistic creation, ancient or contemporary, One will eventually find themselves asking the question that defines life: WHY?(Referring to notes and discussions)among all the possibilities and theories, misconceptions and opinions will of course be made. It is what it is, History and artwork in one. Ancient art that, being art, is still always open for interpretation.
One could,perhaps, argue that the styling and representation of figures done by the Ancient Egyptians was simplistic or childlike. I believe, on the contrary, that the work seems perfectly balanced for all it truly had to say. Also, the attention to detail of their sculpture/jewelry/furniture is undoubtedly present,while the paintings are more simplistic. The reason being, is the purpose of the paintings themselves. These scenes were not "fairy tales", or "decoration,"on contrary to popular belief. They were of utter importance to the Egyptians, depictions of physical and spiritual happenings that they firmly believed in.
Form, from what I've learned, Usually follows function. The messages had to reach not only the upper class,but the not-so-literate masses as well. How do you reach someone who cannot read? draw them a picture! A bit simple but practical, is it not? Now everybody can know that the tomb they are in is going to leave them cursed. No matter the artistic style of it all, the paintings and carved scenes fulfilled their purpose of documenting the happenings and greatness of the Ancient rulers on their path to godliness(class reference).
While researching The Ancient Egyptians, I learned about a set of conventions that was used for their art; a set of calculated guidelines to follow regarding text and image that was extremely effective in my eyes. The Egyptians had a uniform way to depict and space things in their artwork, all elements being significant. (Art history,P.53)With so many things to document, it was the wisest choice they could have made design-wise.The conventions used(such as proportion and spacing) helped to translate ideas more effectively. For example, the sizes of a figure signified their importance and even shoewear and stance effected the meaning of a scene.(Art history, P.52)
Another example;"The lotus was commonly used in art as a symbol of Upper Egypt. It was often shown with its long stems intertwined with papyrus reeds (a symbol of Lower Egypt) as a representation of the unification of the two lands."(http://www.egyptianmyths.net/lotus.htm)
The characteristic simple, yet accurate style used by the ancient Egyptian artists inspires and intrigues both artists and historians even to the present day. The symmetry and representation of physical characteristics has adhered to countless cultures that the Egyptians came in contact with, where it eventually evolved and gained different attributes.(reference to class notes and discussion)A good example of this style’s appearance in other cultures is this greek vase.
Form, from what I've learned, Usually follows function. The messages had to reach not only the upper class,but the not-so-literate masses as well. How do you reach someone who cannot read? draw them a picture! A bit simple but practical, is it not? Now everybody can know that the tomb they are in is going to leave them cursed. No matter the artistic style of it all, the paintings and carved scenes fulfilled their purpose of documenting the happenings and greatness of the Ancient rulers on their path to godliness(class reference).
While researching The Ancient Egyptians, I learned about a set of conventions that was used for their art; a set of calculated guidelines to follow regarding text and image that was extremely effective in my eyes. The Egyptians had a uniform way to depict and space things in their artwork, all elements being significant. (Art history,P.53)With so many things to document, it was the wisest choice they could have made design-wise.The conventions used(such as proportion and spacing) helped to translate ideas more effectively. For example, the sizes of a figure signified their importance and even shoewear and stance effected the meaning of a scene.(Art history, P.52)
Another example;"The lotus was commonly used in art as a symbol of Upper Egypt. It was often shown with its long stems intertwined with papyrus reeds (a symbol of Lower Egypt) as a representation of the unification of the two lands."(http://www.egyptianmyths.net/lotus.htm)
Egyptian cup from approximately 800 BC
"
A painted carving found in the corridor of Tutankhamun's tomb shows the head of a young boy in a representation of the infant sun god, Nefertem, arising from the blue lotus which, itself, grew out of the primordial ocean."(1332-1322 BCE)Photo credit: http://www.hsuyun.org/chan/en/essays/bychuanzhi/50-ancientwisdom.htmlThe characteristic simple, yet accurate style used by the ancient Egyptian artists inspires and intrigues both artists and historians even to the present day. The symmetry and representation of physical characteristics has adhered to countless cultures that the Egyptians came in contact with, where it eventually evolved and gained different attributes.(reference to class notes and discussion)A good example of this style’s appearance in other cultures is this greek vase.
Photo courtesy of http://www.beyondbooks.com/art11/2d.asp
“In Their world-view, the movements of heavenly bodies, the workings of gods,and the humblest of human activities were all believed to be part of a balanced and harmonious grand design.” (Art History, p.50) The common goal for Egyptians was keeping a balance in every aspect of life. Their balance was found in the completeness of all things in this world and the next. In reference to class notes and discussion, they sought to mesh together this life with the afterlife seamlessly. The egyptians were an extremely devout, orderly and communal people, and this they expressed through their art and architecture(which is art in itself). Overall, it seems their society worked like a machine-everyday life was systematic like their art. Everybody had their place in the social hierarchy, that’s how it was and the way that got things done. Temples had to be built, priests had to attend to them, and everybody’s goal and focus was on the ruler’s transcention and pleasing the gods. They appreciated blessings given to them from nature,so they paid homage in form of offerings and tribute. From The vigilant work of the pyramids to the intricacy of jewelry and amulets, all was done with mostly Devine purpose and a sense of mysticism. The pyramids rose up closer to the sun, connecting the earth further to the sky. Meanwhile, Sphinx were the Giant eloquent guardians. However, if you look at these glorious structures with no concept of what they really are, they remain just ancient buildings in the desert.
Photo credit:(http://macaulay.cuny.edu/eportfolios/egyptianstudies/2011/05/04/pyramids-of-giza/
Some claim that the ancient Egyptian style of figure is crude,but this is a matter of opinion. This was a culture that “favoured order and form over creativity and artistic expression.” (http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/ancient-art/egyptian.htm) Their main focus was on the bigger picture, however, and that dominated over the importance of beauty and detail. In each picture,every symbol and line had a reason to be,a story each their own. Although,It is hard to argue that detail was overlooked considering the deep symbolism and history within each character and picture. They were concerned with the pictures as a whole; balanced and complete. Although simple in form, it was the function that was relevant.
The ancient Egyptians proved to be ahead of their time, their Philosophies and tales living on long after the entire civilization.The legacy they’ve left behind makes them what they sought to be- immortal.
Friday, September 30, 2011
ESSAY #1A~Them and Us
Part One:Experience
*Summary: When compiling my thoughts on This question, The picture became so large in my head that my thoughts became scattered and I immediately had to scribble away and actually rearrange all the blurbs to compile.It's amazing but they fit in the end. I was brought back to many class discussions and powerpoint notes,and these connections were excellent and helped my thought process flow and build.
*Reason: I believe The reason this question would be asked, is to really get down to earth and put some serious thought into why humans create artistic works. This question gives you the chance to get insight from your own answer. It pertains to this class because the point is to look in perspective at the culture, beliefs, ways and reasons behind art, not just the names,dates,and places.
*Purpose: The purpose of this question could be to have us delve into our knowledge,and connect it in new ways.The comparison of art in simplistic society vesus a technologic age really helps you see the purity that art in any form really contains.
*Direction: I was brought to a full circle in my essay question-anwering,back to the first day of class lookin at the bigger picture and reasons for creation of artwork. I went in a broad yet focused direction,if that makes any sense whatsoever.
*Impressions: I was truly amazed at the artistic capacity of the prehistoric artists! The shading and detail are amazing. I am in awe at the intricate studies of animals done with REAL charcoal (haha) and other various herbs and minerals.The innovation of these people is striking because of what they had to work with and how well the art is done.
(http://0.tqn.com/d/archaeology/1/G/O/H/1/Chauvet_cave_lions.JPG)
("Photograph of a group of lions, painted on the walls of Chauvet Cave in France, at least 27,000 years ago.")
Part 2:Answer
When comparing the prehistoric people/artists to those of modern times, I find myself pondering both deep rooted similarities, and differences based on the advance in technology.The more obvious similarities are the innovation in creating mediums."In some places in prehistoric caves three stages of image creation can be seen:engraved lines using flakes of flint,followed by a color wash of ocher and manganese,and a final engraving to emphasize shapes and detail"(ART HISTORY,Fourth Edition Volume I, Page 10) A simpler example using a modern technique is the construction of furniture using cardboard,which i've experienced firsthand in a class at the CCRI Flanagan campus. Artists, wether pre-historic or in the here and now, will always find a way to express themselves and something to do it with.
In art, your perspective on not just the medium, but the expression itself is key. This is why there are many reasons for the creation of pieces of art throughout history. If it were not open to interpretation, it would not be art.I believe we discussed similar ideas in class. The cave dwellers did paintings and carvings as a way to create a communal bond, and perhaps bring fertility to the animals they hunted for food.(ART HISTORY,Fourth Edition Volume I, Page 8)Other reasons for prehistoric art could be to record inventory and document stories and family histories. Many drawings and paintings look like studies of animals an art teacher would have you do,or just the wanderings of a creative mind being sketched out.Modern art portrays life,and whatever is in the artist's head. When you boil it back down to just being art as self-expression,it translates to the need for self-actulization.(reference to class notes)
When creating images, making something out of nothing but your hands and imagination, it is a way of exploring and discovering the unknown. This unknown being the spiritual connection we as humans have to our world. The Earth is truly fascinating to behold, so it is no wonder so many portray it's intense beauty through art.This is where we belong. Long before the scrapers blocked the horizon and highways pushed over the plains, it was us in harmony with our earth mother. This Bison carving in clay floor is a prime example of art and nature in perfect harmony.
"Faith is to believe what you do not see; The reward of faith is to see what you believe."Saint Augustine,Bishop of Hippo 354-430 CE. I believe art is a way to do this, to take control of that of which we do not know and, like magic, make things appear. Control is another thing that we as humans need a sense of to be happy in life.
http://art-history-rrf.wikispaces.com/The+Necessity+of+Art)
Our belief in this belonging has been the the driving force behind creation of all kind dating back to pre history. Knowing we belong gives us the sense of security that we need in order to be happy and fulfilled.(http://art-history-rrf.wikispaces.com/The+Necessity+of+Art) It also helps us to answer the age-old question: Who Am I?(class notes reference)When we create art, the piece does not only reflect the image or culture but a piece of ourselves as well. Our own stories connect us to the works and that,in a way, makes us live forever.
It is undeniable that the artists of pre-history and ourselves as modern artists in a completely new era still have many artistic similarities. We may have much more available to us to work with, as you can see in this picture of Christo's Surrounded Islands, but the same strive is there to express and feel we have an impact philisophically,spiritually,or physically in our world.
(1983 - Surrounded Islands,fabric and earth, Florida, 1980 by Christo and Jeanne-Claude)
*Summary: When compiling my thoughts on This question, The picture became so large in my head that my thoughts became scattered and I immediately had to scribble away and actually rearrange all the blurbs to compile.It's amazing but they fit in the end. I was brought back to many class discussions and powerpoint notes,and these connections were excellent and helped my thought process flow and build.
*Reason: I believe The reason this question would be asked, is to really get down to earth and put some serious thought into why humans create artistic works. This question gives you the chance to get insight from your own answer. It pertains to this class because the point is to look in perspective at the culture, beliefs, ways and reasons behind art, not just the names,dates,and places.
*Purpose: The purpose of this question could be to have us delve into our knowledge,and connect it in new ways.The comparison of art in simplistic society vesus a technologic age really helps you see the purity that art in any form really contains.
*Direction: I was brought to a full circle in my essay question-anwering,back to the first day of class lookin at the bigger picture and reasons for creation of artwork. I went in a broad yet focused direction,if that makes any sense whatsoever.
*Impressions: I was truly amazed at the artistic capacity of the prehistoric artists! The shading and detail are amazing. I am in awe at the intricate studies of animals done with REAL charcoal (haha) and other various herbs and minerals.The innovation of these people is striking because of what they had to work with and how well the art is done.
("Photograph of a group of lions, painted on the walls of Chauvet Cave in France, at least 27,000 years ago.")
Part 2:Answer
When comparing the prehistoric people/artists to those of modern times, I find myself pondering both deep rooted similarities, and differences based on the advance in technology.The more obvious similarities are the innovation in creating mediums."In some places in prehistoric caves three stages of image creation can be seen:engraved lines using flakes of flint,followed by a color wash of ocher and manganese,and a final engraving to emphasize shapes and detail"(ART HISTORY,Fourth Edition Volume I, Page 10) A simpler example using a modern technique is the construction of furniture using cardboard,which i've experienced firsthand in a class at the CCRI Flanagan campus. Artists, wether pre-historic or in the here and now, will always find a way to express themselves and something to do it with.
In art, your perspective on not just the medium, but the expression itself is key. This is why there are many reasons for the creation of pieces of art throughout history. If it were not open to interpretation, it would not be art.I believe we discussed similar ideas in class. The cave dwellers did paintings and carvings as a way to create a communal bond, and perhaps bring fertility to the animals they hunted for food.(ART HISTORY,Fourth Edition Volume I, Page 8)Other reasons for prehistoric art could be to record inventory and document stories and family histories. Many drawings and paintings look like studies of animals an art teacher would have you do,or just the wanderings of a creative mind being sketched out.Modern art portrays life,and whatever is in the artist's head. When you boil it back down to just being art as self-expression,it translates to the need for self-actulization.(reference to class notes)
When creating images, making something out of nothing but your hands and imagination, it is a way of exploring and discovering the unknown. This unknown being the spiritual connection we as humans have to our world. The Earth is truly fascinating to behold, so it is no wonder so many portray it's intense beauty through art.This is where we belong. Long before the scrapers blocked the horizon and highways pushed over the plains, it was us in harmony with our earth mother. This Bison carving in clay floor is a prime example of art and nature in perfect harmony.
( Bison carving, Unbaked clay, Artist Unknown,13,000 BCE)
http://art-history-rrf.wikispaces.com/The+Necessity+of+Art)
(1983 - Surrounded Islands,fabric and earth, Florida, 1980 by Christo and Jeanne-Claude)
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Thoughts
We crave expression,like wanting to scream. We want to make visible the silence of harbored emotions about ourselves and the world(society) around us.Art is a fickle creature,versitile and also elusive. Yet as artists we find somewhere in the chaos of creativity,a balance,a perfection.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
There are FOURTEEN TOPIC QUESTION ESSAYS to select from:
- STUDENTS must select any FIVE of the Topic Question Essays to answer and submit as a Written Essay.
- The challenge of the Topic Question Essays are in:
- Answering the question to the best of your ability, which also requires you to:
- Follow the Essay Format to the letter
- Reference the notes you take in class
- AS WELL AS – Read your text, do web research, find, understand and cite your sources to support your Topic Question Essay answer
- Write clearly and concisely
- Use correct grammar and spelling (use your Spelling & Grammar
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