READING VISUAL ARTS Dropping a Han Dynasty Urn (1995)

LECTURE 1: IS ART, ART?

by Ai Weiwei
THE BASIC
The Creation of Adam by Michelangelo (1508-1512) TYPES OF ART (Most commonly known types of art)
o A biblical creation narrative from the book of PAINTING
Genesis in the Bible, where God gave life to Adam – o Visual art; involves applying color to a canvas (paper or wood). It uses
the first man. various techniques and materials such as pigment, brushes, etc. to paint. It
OOOOHH by Richard Gomez (2019) comprises a wide range of genres and style like realistic, abstract, non-
o A self-explanatory artwork that shows lust, representational. Painting conveys emotion, story, or idea through image
pleasure, and power. It was sold for P120,000.00 and colors in two-dimensional way.
SCULPTURE
Comedian by Maurizio Cattelan (2019)
o Three-dimensional art; involves creation by shaping or carving materials
o Can be considered as conceptual art.
(wood, stone, clay, metal). When touched, shapes and texture can be felt.
Some sculptures are figurative, representational, or conceptual. It can be
GENERAL DEFINITION OF ART
used to commemorate important figures or events in history.
o Expression or application of human creative skill and imagination.
LITERATURE
o Works appreciated for beauty, emotional power, or meaningful message.
o Known as literary art; an art form that uses written or spoken language to
o Can be representational or abstract, traditional or avant-garde.
convey ideas, emotions, and stories. Its form can be through a novel, poetry,
o Can serve as aesthetic enjoyment, social commentary, or political activism.
short story, drama, essays, plays, etc. It has the power to explore human
conditions through writing, express creativity, and offer a profound insight in
HOW ARTIST DEFINE ART
culture and society.
“Art is the lie that enables us to realize truth.” By Pablo Picasso
ARCHITECTURE
“Art is a matter of form, not content.” By Clement Greenberg
o Science of designing and constructing buildings where science and art
“Art is a game between all people of all periods.” By Marcel Duchamp merges. Architecture creates space that is aesthetic, functional, durable,
“Art is what you can get away with.” By Andy Warhol and responsive to human needs.
CINEMA
WHAT IS ART o Or filmmaking; an art form that uses moving images, sounds, and narrative
o A verb; expresses thoughts, emotions, intuitions, and desires. storytelling to convey ideas, emotion, and experience. Encompasses
o Sharing how you experience the world and to carry your intent. various genres like narrative films, documentaries, animation, science
o Art is located in how the media is used and how the content is expressed. fiction, etc. It is a powerful medium for storytelling and visual expression.
MUSIC GREEK AND ROMAN ART
o Art form of organization of sound, melody, rhythm, and harmony to create o Art is influenced by Ancient Greek and Roman Empire.
an emotional and aesthetic experience for the listeners. It can be lyrics, o Known for emphasis on idealized human forms, architecture, and
vocals, or instrumental. It has the capability to evoke emotions and connect development of sculptural and architectural styles.
with human sensibility. o Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns were 3 principal architectural orders.
THEATER o Life-sized statues made of bronze were started during this period.
o Or performing arts; involves live and dramatic performance in front of the MEDIEVAL ART (called as Dark Ages)
audience. It includes plays, dramas, musicals, dance, etc. with various
o Artistic traditions of Europe during Middle Ages (15th century).
themes. It brings together elements like acting, directing, designing,
o Includes religious art, illuminated manuscript, stained glass, and gothic
lightning, and sound to tell stories and engage the audience for experience.
architecture.
o Artworks were characterized by spiritual things and symbolism.
OTHER TYPES OF ART
1. Drawing 4. Poetry 7. Fashion Design RENAISSANCE ART
2. Photography 5. Textile Art 8. Ceramics o Called the Enlightenment Period (late 14th century to 16th century);
3. Dance 6. Digital Art 9. Street Art celebrates the revival of classic ideas.
o Realistic representation of human anatomy, painting perspectives, and has
HISTORY OF ART the most known artworks today. (da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael)
PRE-HISTORIC ART o The idea of celebrity artists emerged where people focused more on famous
o Symbolic expression of early human culture. artists than the artworks.
o Consists of cave paintings, petroglyphs hieroglyphs, stone carving. BAROQUE ART
o In the Philippines, Angono Petroglyphs can be found in Angono, Rizal.
o Known for dramatic and ornate style of painting.
o The oldest pre-historic cave art was found in France (over 17,000 years).
o Features intense emotion, intricate detail, and dynamic art compositions.
o They used natural pigments to create images of animals, people, and other
o Often associated with counter reformation and Catholic Church responses
symbols.
to protestant reformation.
ANCIENT EGYTIAN ART o Lasted a short time and was only a response to protestants.
o Characterized by monumental architecture, hieroglyphics, distinctive
MODERN ART
representation of pharaoh and gods, daily life, statues, and symbols.
o Art serves both religious and funerary purposes. o Encompasses wide range of artistic movements that emerge in the mid 19th
o Reflects strong spiritual and societal structure that Ancient Egypt has. century that includes impressionism, cubism, surrealism, etc.
o Has a belief about afterlife so their art included funerary objects and tombs o Reflects innovations in style, techniques, and subject matter.
(pyramid) to ensure smooth journey of the dead to the next world. o Often challenge the traditional artistic conventions of art.
 CONTEMPORARY ART POST-IMPRESSIONISM
o Post-modern Art (20th century to present). o Emerge as a reaction to impressionism.
o Incorporates traditional painting and sculpture to digital art, in addition, it o Emphasizes subjective expression, use of color and form to convey
includes installation art, performance, art, conceptual art, etc. emotion.
o Often explore contemporary issues reflecting the rapidly changing world. o Vincent van Gogh was a post-impressionist.
o Includes conventional medium such as temporary art, conceptual art, and POST-IMPRESSIONISM
performance art. The Seed of the Aerol (1892)
by Paul Gauguin
ART MOVEMENTS DURING THE MODERN PERIOD
IMPRESSIONISM
o 19th century art movement; considered as the start of modern art period. FAUVISM
o Focuses on capturing the fleeting effects of light, color, and atmosphere. o Fauvists emerge in Paris during the early 20th century.
o Artists like Claude Monet used loose brush strokes to depict everyday scene o They claimed to be the first in the world to use colors that are non-
and landscapes. representational or unrealistic colors.
o Was a rebellion against ‘Le Salon,’ an official art exhibition in Paris, that has o It was characterized by vivid non-naturalistic colors and bold brushstrokes.
the power to create or break an artists career through artwork displays.
POST-IMPRESSIONISM
o Impressionist painted using loose brush strokes and brighter color as an
Luxe, Calme et Volupte (1904)
opposition to photography.
by Henri Matisse
IMPRESSIONISM
Luncheon of the Boating Party (1881)
by Pierre-Auguste Renoir CUBISM
o Pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
ORITENTALISM o Known for geometric representation of objects and figures to depict
o Characterized by fascination with the subject portrayal of exotic and multiple perspectives and dimensions simultaneously.
romanticized aspects of the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. o It challenges traditional notions of representation and represented a
o Art to project imperial fantasies on these regions for European audience. fragmented 3D world on a 2D canvas.
o A problematic art movement due to artists being white heteronormative o Guernica is a depiction of massacre of the village and representation of
men that created colorful and detailed paintings for upper class audience. bombed cities. And is a artistic artwork against war and colonization.
o Realistic, objectification of women, colonial attitude, and racism.
CUBISM
ORIENTALISM
Guernica (1937)
Women of Algiers in their Apartment (1834)
by Pablo Picasso
by Eugene Delacroix
SUPPREMATISM ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM
o A Russian Abstract Art Movement. o Art movement after World War II and developed in New York.
o Kazimir Malevich was the pioneer of this movement. o It emphasizes the spontaneous and emotional aspects of art.
o Focuses on reducing art into simplest geometric shapes and color. o Jackson Pollack used gestural abstraction to convey inner emotion.
o Emphasizes pure artistic expression supremacy. o It doesn’t represent anything, and artists painted blurry shapes.
o An art that focuses more on process than outcome.
SUPPREMATISM
Black Square (1915) ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM
by Kazimir Malevich Yellow Islands (1952)
by Jason Pollack
DADAISM
o Emerged in Sweden, Paris, and USA during World War I. POP ART
o Dadaist were promised of utopia but lived in chaos which led into a thinking o Emerged in the 1950s and 1960s with Andy Warhol as a pioneer.
that the world is not making sense, so should is art. o This celebrates and critiques consumer culture by incorporating imagery
o They recreate readymade objects and transformed it into an artwork. from mass media, popular culture, and brands.
o Has a sense of absurdity, rebellion against established norms, and rejection o A rebellion against traditional forms of art and abstraction.
of traditional art and societal values. And is a reaction against capitalists. POP ART
Campbell’s Soup Cans (1962)
DADAISM
by Andy Warhol
Bicycle Wheel (1913)
by Marcel Duchamp
ELEMENTS OF ART
SURREALISM COLORS
o Led by Salvador Dali and centered around Paris and New York, which o Fundamental element of art; refers to visual sensation of different
explores the world of subconscious and dreams. wavelengths of light.
o Often featured irrational dreamlike and fantastical imagery challenging o Can be used to create mood, convey emotion, establish sense of harmony
conventional reality. Artworks were absurd and had no connection at all. and contrast within a composition.
o Surrealists were influenced by Sigmund Freud theory of psychoanalysis. o Artists can manipulate color through hue, saturation, intensity, lightness or
darkness, and the name of the color.
SURREALISM o Three Types of Color:
The Temptation of St. Anthony (1946) -Primary (Blue, Red, Yellow): cannot be created by mixing colors.
by Salvador Dali -Secondary (Orange, Purple, Green): combination of two primary colors.
-Tertiary (Red Orange, Yello Green): mix of primary and secondary color.
LINES WHY ARE ELEMENTS OF ART NECESSARY
o Basic stroke with length and little width and is essential for 2D works like o It serves as the foundation for creating and interpreting visual art.
painting and drawing while for 3D like sculpture and architecture. o Allows artists to convey meaning and emotion in their work.
o Line is used to define shapes, create patterns, suggest movements, or o Provide viewers with tools to appreciate and understand the complexities of
convey direction. artistic expression.
o Five Types of Line (Most Common Types of Line)
- Vertical Line - Zigzag Lines PRINCIPLES OF ART
- Horizontal Line - Curve Line BALANCE
- Diagonal Line o Distribution of visual elements within the composition to create a sense of
FORM equilibrium and harmony. An example is the different size of a far mountain
o Refers to 3D quality of an object opposed to flat shape. and nearby human.
o Often associated with sculpture, architecture, etc. o Ensures that the artwork is stable and well-proportioned.
o Form has a volume, depth, and mass that allows object to occupy space. o Three Primary Types of Balance:
-Symmetrical Balance – or mirror image.
TEXTURE
-Asymmetrical Balance – or uneven distribution of elements.
o The surface characteristic of an artwork.
-Radial Balance – elements that radiate outward from a center point.
o Texture illusion can be created through various techniques like brushwork
or physical quality of the sculpture. EMPHASIS
o It adds depth and visual interest to art. o Directs attention to a particular area within an artwork.
o Uses color, contrast, focal point, etc. to create emphasis and guide viewers
SPACE
eyes to the interesting part of the art.
o The area in which the artwork exists.
o Used to establish relationships between elements, create depth, and CONTRAST
control overall composition. o Involves use of different color, value, texture, size, and other elements of art
o Two Types of Space: to create visual difference and make elements standout.
-Positice Space – objects in the art (can be the subject of art). REPETITION
-Negative Space – empty space or surrounding area. o Use of recurring elements such as shapes, colors, and patterns to create
SHAPES rhythm, unity, and consistency in artwork.
o A 2D enclosed area with a boundary and can be used to create patterns. o Helps establish a sense of order and connection in composition.
o Building blocks of the composition. UNITY
o Types of Shapes: o Ensures that the elements of art were together cohesively.
-Geometric – well-defined boundaries and angles; precise form o Achieved through a sense of wholeness and use of repetition, balance, and
-Organic – irregular free form, asymmetrical, no straight edges, less rigid. consistent visual style.
MOVEMENT MARY STEVENSON CASSATT (1844-1926)
o Illusion of motion or direction. o An American Impressionist, known for portraits of mothers and children.
o Can be created through arrangement of shape, line, and other elements that o The only American artist to have her work accept at Le Salon (Paris Salon).
guide viewers or suggest movements. JOHANNES VERMEER (1632-1675)
PATTERN o Known for meticulous attention to detail and natural light in painting.
o Refers to repetitive use of visual elements in a systematic and predictable o Has 34 known artworks.
manner. -Cura – a primitive camera
o Can be created with shape, color, texture, and other design elements.
VINCENT VAN GOGH (1853-1890)
VARIETY o Has great vitality in artwork by using expressive and emotive use of brilliant
o Inclusion of diverse visual elements to create interest and prevent colors. He cut his left ear and gave it.
monotony. o His only sold painting when he was alive was Red Vineyard.
o It may be in difference of size, shape, color, and others. o Artworks: Starry Night (1889), Sunflower (1889)
HARMONY PABLO PICASSO (1881-1973)
o Combines different elements in a way that creates a pleasing and unified o Pioneered Cubism Art Movement.
whole composition, or it would be confusing. o Artwork: Guernica (1937), LA VIE (1903), LE REVE (1932)
o Ensures that the elements work well together to convey a sense of
completeness and aesthetic satisfaction. CLAUDE MONET (1840-1926)
o Known for series painting – same subject but painted at different times and
WHY ARE PRINCIPLES OF ART NECESSARY use different lighting.
o Guides artists in creating meaningful and visually engaging works. o Artwork: Water Lily
o Assists viewers in understanding and appreciating art. JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT (1960-1988)
o Provide a common framework for artistic expression and communication. o Street artist, drawing from diverse culture.

SOME FAMOUS ARTISTS PHILOSÒPHY AND ART

LEONARDO DA VINCI (1452-1519) o Art is a bridge that connects the artist inner world with the audience external
o Under Renaissance Period, a polymath and is known for writing notes in world; a testament to shared capacity for empathy and understanding.
mirror writing. o Invites to reflect upon the complexities of existence, the richness of human
o Artworks: The Last Supper (1948), Mona Lisa (1519), Lady with an Ermine (1491) emotion, and the boundless possibilities of human thought.
REMBRANDT VAN RIJN (1609-1669) o Provides a language that surpasses the limitation of words that allows to
o Known for historical paintings, created nearly 100 self-portraits. express the inexpressible and intangible.
o Name means ‘son of Harmen’.
PHILOSOPHER DEFINITION OF ART o Beauty – not all artworks are beautiful due to its portrayal of tragedy. Beauty
“Art is an expression of aesthetic ideas.” By Immanuel Kant is defined as an inherent aspect of emotion expression or artist’s sincerity.
o Spiritual Values – contains moral and spiritual values. Art should serve for
“Art is a form of expression that reveals the lived experiences and
a higher purpose fostering moral and spiritual development.
perceptions of the artist.” By Maurice Merleau-Ponty
“Art provides an avenue for the expression of unconscious desires and PURPOSES AND FUNCTIONS OF ART
emotions.” By Sigmund Freud ART AS COMMENTARY
“The interpretation of art is endlessly deferred and can never reach a final o A commentary for societal, political, cultural, or personal issues.
stable meaning.” By Jacques Derrida o To think, reflect, and provoke discussion about current issues in society.
ART IN WORSHIP OR RITUAL
LEO TOLSTOY
o Create a sacred place, religious narratives, sculptures, text/manuscripts,
o “Art’s purpose is to convey feelings and emotions, creating a bridge of
and inspire devotion.
understanding between the artist and the audience.”
ART FOR COMMEMORATION
WHAT AN ART IS NOT o Happens only for famous persons, historical figures/events, or moments of
According To Leo Tolstoy, art is not an art when: personal significance.
o Art for art’s sake – art that prioritizes its element without conveying meaning o An example of this is: monuments, memorial parks, statues.
lacks the idea of artwork or essential purpose of communication. ART FOR PERSUASION
o Elitism – art that caters for the elite or intellectual audience; art should be o Influence opinion, attitude, or behavior. It can be harnessed for propaganda,
accessible to a wide range of people. advertising, or advocacy.
o Decadence – art that is excessively abstract or disconnected from real o Imagery, symbolism, or code can be a powerful means of persuasion.
human experience. ART FOR SELF-EXPRESSION
o Personal Egoism – art that serves the artist’s desire for fame, recognition, o Artists expressing their own thoughts, emotion, or desires which allows
or commercial success than conveying emotions. them to explore creativity and communicate individuality.
WHAT AN ART IS PLATO’S CONCERN ON ART
According To Leo Tolstoy, art is an art when: o Imitative Nature of Art – can be misleading due to near copy of reality rather
o Emotion and Communication – art should serve as a bridge for artist’s than actual reality which leads people away from searching the truth.
feelings to audience. o Emotional and Irrational Influence – arousing strong emotions that lead to
o Infectious Emotions – art should have power to affect audience emotion of irrational and potential harmful behavior affecting moral judgment.
what the artist felt during its creation. o Art is a Distraction – people should focus more on studying eternal and
o Universal – art is capable of transcending time, culture, and individual unchanging ideas than changing appearance and senses,
differences and resonates with people from diverse backgrounds. o Questionable Morality – arts depicting immorality is detrimental to society.
HOW TO READ ARTS LECTURE 2: ARTEMISIA GENTILESCHI AND SEMIOTICS IN ART
Reading the Image by Alice Guillermo
BAROQUE PERIOD
o Contextual Analysis – understanding the sociopolitical, cultural, and o Early 17th century to 18th century.
historical context in which the artwork was created. Where and when art o More distinct and is characterized by emphasizing drama and emotion,
was produced is vital in analyzing and interpreting its meaning. fascination on dramatic interplay of light and shadow, and natural
o Semiotics and Symbols – understanding the artwork’s visual language such representation of human anatomy accuracy.
as metaphor, sign, and symbol to reveal artist intention and its message. o Artworks in this period was significantly shaped by Caravaggio – known for
o Form and Content – elements and principles of art; identifying the his realistic and dramatic paintings, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini – a sculptor.
relationship between form and content to understand the artwork.
CHIAROSCURO
o Visual Language and Codes – unique set of codes to convey meaning which
o Treatment of light and shade (shadow) in painting.
varies from time period to different culture for interpretation.
o Artemisia pioneered the use of light and shadow in her works called
o Artistic Intentions – artist’s motivation and goal for creating the artwork.
chiaroscuro.
o Viewer Participation – viewers bringing their own experiences, emotions,
and cultural background for art interpretation. SEMIOTICS IN ART
o How to properly look at artworks.
o Not all artworks is a representation of reality. o Semiotics is the idea that everything is a sign to convey meaning.
o Not all artworks are political but is often political due to its power as a o The study of signs, symbols, and their interpretation.
medium to engage with critic and comment on political and social issues; o Provides deeper understanding of how artist communicate ideas in art.
for raising awareness, and ability to capture the public attention.
A SIGN CONSISTS OF:
o Artificial intelligence (AI) Art is not an art, its an automation of image.
o Signifier – the form of sign. (example: facial expression)
FIVE THEMES THAT TRIED TO DEFINE ART o Signified – the concept the sign represents. (example: sadness)
o Essentialism – “essence”; all art has similar essence. THREE TYPES OF SIGNS
o Functionalism – “function”; all art has a common function. o Iconic Sign – resembles the object they represent, most of
o Institutionalism – “art is defined by institutions”; art is whatever the the times, it was obvious.
artworld (artists, art teacher, art critic, art collector, art enthusiast) assess o Indexical Sign – has a direct connection or causal
them to be. Institutions are what caters art such as museum and art gallery. relationship with what they represent.
o Historical Definition – recognizes artistic traditions ex. Renaissance. o Symbolic Sign – relies on convention and cultural
o Anti-Essentialist – art cannot be defined by traditional methods and rejects agreement, sometimes, it is a written language.
the question ‘what is art’. Art cannot be defined without disagreement.
o In semiotics, various sign system exists including linguistic (words and
o Pluralism – art should be defined similar to biological way of identifying
grammar), visual (image, color, shapes), and aural (music, chords) to
species, this is to accommodate all art and categorize it into types.
create complex layers of meaning.
 ARTWORKS OF ARTEMISIA GENTILESCHI
SEMIOTICS IN ARTS
A
o Visual Elements – use of elements and principles of art to convey meaning, U
a signifier that triggers specific meaning. R
O
o Iconography – symbols and motifs of art, the cultural and historical R
significance, the context, and intent of artist. A
JUDITH AND HER MAIDSERVANT JAEL AND SISERA
o Context and Interpretation – not only the signs within the artwork but the
context in which the work was created and displayed which influences the
interpretation.
o Semiotic Codes – various artistic movements and periods own their
semiotic codes. MARY MAGDALENE IN ECSTACY CORISCA AND THE SATYR CLEOPATRA

o Subversion and Deconstruction – established symbols and meaning of art

that challenges viewers understanding of reality and identity. (ex. Dadaism) ARTEMISIA GENTILESCHI SAID:
o Text and Title – artist’s interplay of text and title can further provide meaning “My illustrious lordship, I’ll show
of art. you what a woman can do.”
THEMES AND SYMBOLISM IN ARTEMISIA’S ART JUDITH SLAYING HOLOFERNES (1612-1613)

o Strong female figure – women who take on traditional masculine role,

seeks justice, and capable of intellectual and artistic achievements. LECTURE 3: FRIDA KAHLO AND TWO TYPES OF ART ANALYSIS
o Violence and Retribution – associated with her sexual assault experience
and trial. Defiance and resistance against oppression and tyranny. TWO TYPES OF ART ANALYSIS
o Chiaroscuro – dramatic use of light and shadow, heightens emotional VISUAL ANALYSIS: THE APPEARANCE
intensity and contrast of good and evil in her work. a. CONTENT: The “What” of an Artwork
o Biblical and Mythological Narratives - What do you see, what is happening.
o Red Color – passion, power, violence, justice. Analyzing the content:
o White Color – purity and innocence.
o Observation – describe subject matter or any visual elements that stands
o Her art subject as victims or heroes
out in the artwork.
o Allegorical Elements – personification of virtues(justice) and vices
o Narrative – uncover the story depicted, sequence of events, or interacting
(violence).
characters. It may be personal, biblical, mythical, or historical.
o Symbolism – identify symbolic elements that carries deeper meaning.
o Religious or Cultural Reference – to provide valuable insight.
o Abstract Elements – emotional or intellectual impact on the viewer
 b. FORM: The “How” of an Artwork THEMES AND SYMBOLISM IN FRIDA KAHLO’S ART
o How is the art created. The medium and art materials used. o Mexican Culture – evident in the choice of clothing, use of vibrant colors,
o The elements and principles of art. and incorporation of folk art.
o Techniques such as brushstroke, texture, shading, etc. o Nature – natural elements including animals and plants which reflect her
o Art movement involved, style, and genre. love for nature and natural world.
o Surrealism – surrealism art movement for symbolic imagery.
CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS: THE HISTORY
o Magical Realism – inspiration from magical realist literary and art
a.FUNCTION: The “Purpose” of an Artwork movement that blends reality into fantastical elements.
o Commemoration – a tribute or memorial to important individuals. o Personal Experience – her messy relationship with Diego, polio and bus
o Worship – religious significance or religious ceremonies. accident, health issues, complex family relationships, and emotional pain.
o Decoration and Utility – some are purely aesthetic, ornamental, or She painted her raw and honest life experiences in her artworks.
architectural. Utility or practical such as furnitures.
o Political – convey political message, ideology, or influence the public. THE TWO FRIDAS (1939)
o Personal expression – outlet for thoughts and emotions of the artist. o It was created when Frida’s life was falling apart but started gaining
attention as an artist, after she found out Diego’s affair with Chrsitina.
b. CONTEXT: The “Surrounding History” of an Artwork o It captivated the bizarre idea of beauty and the beast.
o When, who, where, event, politics during the creation of artwork. o It conveys complex emotions and identity which
o Established historical timeframe, current location of artwork, motivation for represent the two version of herself as:
creating the art, political and societal impact/message, etc. - Dressed in European attire holding scissors and has
ART MOVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH FRIDA KAHLO a bleeding heart – the Frida that Diego didn’t love.
o Surrealism – characterized by exploration of subconscious mind, dreams, - Dressed in Mexican clothing and clutches a whole
and irrationality. Looking at ‘out of this world’ things. It contains dreamlike heart – the Frida that Deigo loved.
and fantastical elements or goes beyond the confines of reality. o The painting serves as an autobiographical narrative of her marriage life.
o Symbolism – hidden meanings in her art. o Highlights duality and complexity of women identity, mix heritage,
o Magical Realism – combines real world with magical and fantastical connection to Mexican culture, and women empowerment.
element often portrayed in realistic way.

WORKS AND LIFE OF FRIDA KAHLO

o Frida Kahlo used painting as way of coping up with her suffering and self-
expression.
o Diego Rivera – her husband who have plenty of affairs, including her
younger sister, Christina.
ARTWORKS OF FRIDA KAHLO OUTSIDER ART
No Title (1960)
by Anna Zemankova

CHARACTERISTIC OF OUTSIDER ART

HENRY FORD HOSPITAL (THE FLYING BED) (1932) THE BUS (1929) MY BIRTH (1932) o Unconventionality – unorthodox nature, artworks outside the art traditions.
o Individualism – not influenced by artistic trends, art movement, or
academic teachings.
o Raw Expression – unfiltered expression of artist’s inner thoughts, emotions.
MY DRESS HANGS THERE (1933) FAMILY TREE (1936)
SELF-PORTRAIT WITH THE o Obsessive Detail – creates intricate and detailed works that may reflect
PORTRAIT OF DOCTOR FARILL
singularity and obsessive vision.

o Brut Art or Outsider Art is not an art of the mentally ill and not all artists suffer
from mental issues. But reflects personal experience, unconventional
MY NURSE AND I FOUR INHABITANTS OF MEXICO
SELF-POTRAIT WITH THE TWO NUDES IN THE FOREST (THE perspective, or rejection to mainstream.
MONKEY EARTH ITSELF)
(1938)
FRIDA KAHLO SAID:
“I am my own muse. I am the
subject I know best. The
ROOTS (1943) THE WOUNDED DEER (1946) subject I want to know better.”

LECTURE 4: YAYOI KUSAMA AND OUTSIDE ART, COLOR THEORY

OUTSIDE ART (ART BRUT)
COLOR THEORY
o Art made by self-thought of naïve artists with typically little or no contract
o Study of how colors work together and how they can affect emotion and
with the convention of the artworld or not trained as artists.
perceptions that can convey the right mood of art.
o Art Brut, is a French term for Raw Art, and was invented by Jean Dubuffet.
o Established by Isaac Newton, he invented the color wheel in 1666 and
He described it as art created spontaneously such as graffiti and naïve art.
understood colors in the human perceptions of wavelength of light.
o It doesn’t fit into the recognized style or genre in art.
o Often illustrates extreme mental states, unconventional ideas, or elaborate
THREE COLOR GROUPS
fantasy world. No common element but includes personal and distinctive
o Primary – colors that cannot be recreated. (Blue, Red, Yellow)
style, intense and obsessive attention to detail, and sense of individuality.
o Secondary – mixture of two primary colors. (Orange=Y+R, Green=B+Y)
o Tertiary or Intermediate – mixture of a primary and secondary color group.
ELEMENTS OF COLOR o Orange - associated with energy, enthusiasm, and fun. A vibrant and
o Hue – attribute of color that distinguishes it as red energetic color. It can evoke feelings of excitement.
or any specific color. It is the name of the color. o Pink – associated with romance, sweetness, and femininity. It conveys a
o Saturation – known as chroma or intensity. It refers to the purity and sense of tenderness.
vividness of color, ranging from fully saturated to saturated (grey in tone). o Black – associated with sophistication, mystery, power, and elegance. A
o Value – represents the color relative to its lightness, darkness, or greyscale. classic color associated with formality.
It is used to create contrast and depth in visual art. o White – seen as color of purity, simplicity, innocence, and cleanliness.
COLOR SCHEME AND COLOR TEMPERATURE FOR DESIGN HARMONY ARE WHITE AND BLACK COLORS?
o Monochromatic – one hue or color and creates different shades of it. It o Pigments and Artistic Representation: Yes, white is created by mixing all
comes from the same family of color. colors of light and black is created by mixing all colors of pigment.
o Analogous – three colors that are located beside each other. o Physics and Study of Light: No because white is the presence of all colors
o Complementary – use of opposite color on the color wheel and the combination of colors in the visible spectrum while black is the
that will maximize their contrast. absence of all colors.
o Split Complementary – called compound harmony. A WORKS AND LIFE OF YAYOI KUSAMA
complementary color that adds color from either side of o A Japanese contemporary artist who primarily works on installation art and
complementary pair to soften the contrast. sculpture but is also active on painting, performance art, and fictional art.
o Triadic – pick three equally distance colors (120o apart). o Her artworks were based on conceptual art and shows attributes of
o Tetradic – four colors that are two sets of complementary pairs. feminism, minimalism, surrealism, outsider art, pop art, and abstract
o Square – a variant of tetradic; four colors that are evenly expressionism.
spaced on the color wheel (90o apart from each other). o Voluntary Self-Obliteration – describes her desire to transcend herself and
COLOR PSYCHOLOGY her mental state through art. A way for her to incorporate her mental health,
o Red – associated with passion, energy, love, and intensity. It symbolizes anxiety, and vivid hallucinations of polka dots, auras, talking flowers, etc.
strong emotions and can create a sense of urgency. THEMES AND SYMBOLS IN YAYOI KUSAMA’S ART
o Blue – associated with calmness, stability, trust, and serenity. It is often o Polka Dots – most recognizable element in her art; repetition of dots which
used to create a sense of calm and peace. An example of sky and ocean. represents infinity, cosmos, and interconnection of all things.
o Yellow – associated with happiness, positivity, energy, and warmth. A bright o Idea of Infinity and Cosmos – fascination in infinity and cosmos.
and cheerful color associated with sunshine. It evokes feelings of warmth. o Pumpkins – a recurring motif in her artworks. It symbolizes growth, fertility,
o Green – associated with nature, growth, freshness, balance, and harmony. and abundance. It brings her a sense of joy and playfulness.
It can represent renewal and has a calming effect. o Nudity and Body Politics – visible in her early performance art as a way of
o Purple – usually seen as royalty, luxury, creativity, and mystery. It was challenging societal norms and body as a theme (identity and gender).
historically related to royalty and can have spiritual quality.
o Mental Health – as a form of therapy called Voluntary Self-Obliteration. o Grand Orgy to Awaken the Dead at MoMA (1969) – Museum of Modern Art
o Phallic Symbols – symbol representing male generative powers to explore (MoMA), an unauthorized performance outside the museum where
sexuality and desire. participants bathe in the fountain. She criticizes museums of choosing dead
o Repetition and Obsession – polka dots, pattern, or forms is her central artist artworks to display rather than the live artists artworks.
theme as way to create immersive experiences in the idea of infinity. o Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternity (2009) –
o Feminist Theme – participant of Feminist Art Movement. Her exploration of uses light and mirror to create illusion of infinity
sexuality, body image, and gender roles contributed to feminist discourse in which looked like flying lanterns. This was a
1960s and 1970s and challenged patriarchal norms. reference to Buddhist Water Lantern Ceremony
o Love and Peace – her ‘Love Forever Series’ conveys love as a positive force which honors family ancestors in Japan. People
that can overcome personal struggles. can enter the room and experience the infinity illusion.
o Political Commentary – not obvious political undertones, her ‘Vietnam o She has 6 Infinity Rooms.
Series’ expressed her opposition to Vietnam war. YAYOI KUSAMA SAID:
“My art originates from hallucinations only I can see. I translate the hallucinations
ARTWORKS OF YAYOI KUSAMA and obsessional images that plague me into sculpture and painting.”

LECTURE 5: GEORGE O’KEEFFE AND PAINTING

PAINTING
o A visual art form that involves applying pigments, colors, or other mediums
o Mirror Performance (1968) – naked participants have to a flat surface (canvas, paper, wood, wall).
their body painted with dots and do sexual things. o A two-dimensional image or composition.
o Narcissus Garden (1966) – performance art intended to
perform her anti-institutional and critical work outside FORMS OF PAINTING
the museum without permission. Surrounded by OIL PAINTING
golden balls sold in $2 and was kicked out by o Traditional and widely practiced form of painting. Its use started during the
authorities due to selling art without license. Renaissance Period.
o Uses pigments suspended in oil (linseed oil).
o Fireflies in the Garden (2002) – an infinity room
o Known for its rich color, versatility, and ability to create translucent effect.
featuring a small room covered with a lot of mirrors
o Oil paints were painted in layers to blend and create detailed luminous art.
and a pool of water in the middle. There were 150
o Has slower drying time that allows artist to work on their compositions over
small lights hanging from the ceiling and because of
an extended period of time.
the mirror, it creates an illusion of infinite lights or an infinity room.
ACRYLIC PAINTING o The wax cools and hardened as it dries creating a unique surface.
o A contemporary form of painting technique that uses water-based acrylic. o It is known for its luminous quality, texture, and ability to embed various
o It’s known for its fast-drying time which allows quick layering and materials within the wax.
experimentation.
o This can be applied and stick to various surfaces (canvas, paper, wood, etc.)
o If diluted in water, acrylic can produce watercolor-like effect and if applied
thickly, it can produce similar texture like oil painting.
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
o A painting technique using water-based paints made from pigments or dyes TYPES OF PAINTING
suspended in water soluble medium. REALISM
o Artists apply layers of colors typically on white paper to show the value and o A painting from 19th century art movement.
luminous effect of color. o It aims to depict its subject in accurate and objective manner often focusing
o It requires water and a delicate touch as correction in canvas is challenging on everyday life and ordinary people.
due to watercolor’s transparent nature. o Characterized by attention to detail and faithful representation of the
subject matter.

REALISM
The Gleaners (1857)
by Jean-Francois Millet

PASTEL PAINTING
o Using pastel stick made of powdered pigments.
NATURALISM
o It has various forms of soft, hard, or oil pastels.
o An extension of realism but seeks to depict the subject in a highly detailed
o Paintings were created by layering and blending pastel sticks on paper.
and truthful manner and accuracy.
o It has a rich texture, distinctive color intensity, and vibrant color.
o It focuses more on the natural world and its theme of nature.
ENCAUSTIC PAINTING
o An ancient painting technique used during the ancient and medieval NATURALISM
periods. The Hay-Wain (1821)
o It uses molten beeswax mixed with pigments as a painting medium applied by John Constable
to a canvas such as wood.
o While painting, hot beeswax mixed with pigments must be used for easy
manipulation using brushes and other art tools.
IMPRESSIONISM SYMBOLISM
o Painting from the art movement during the 19th century that captures the o A painting from an art movement developed in the late 19th century.
fleeting effects of life, color, and atmosphere to make it look handmade not o It employs symbols and allegorical elements to convey deeper meaning,
printed nor a photograph. often spiritual or psychological message.
o It aims to convey the immediate visual impression of a scene and use loose o Incorporate dreamlike and fantastical imagery and always had a hidden
brushstrokes and vibrant color in an artwork. meaning.

IMPRESSIONISM SYMBOLISM
Woman with a Parasol – The Apparition (1874-1876)
Madame Monet and Her Son (1875) by Gustave Moreau
by Claude Monet

EXPRESSIONISM
o A painting from an art movement in the early 20th century. FAUVISM
o It emphasizes the emotional and subjective portrayal of the artist inner o Characterized by the use of bold and non-naturalistic color depicting the
experiences and feelings. subjects in a non-naturalistic way.
o Characterized by distorted form and vivid intense colors. o It sought to express raw expression and unleash the power of colors.
o A representation of the artist’s subjective world and thoughts.
FAUVISM
EXPRESSIONISM Woman with a Hat (1905)
The Scream (1893) by Henri Matisse
by Edvard Munch

ABSTRACTIONISM
o An art movement during the Modern period called Abstract Art. DADAISM
o An art style that moves away from representation. o A part of an avant-garde movement.
o Emphasizes the use of colors, form, and texture to evoke emotions and o It shows irrational and nonsensical elements.
ideas. A subject was not needed. o A response to the absurdity and delusion caused by World War I.
o It focuses more on the expressive potential of non-representational
DADAISM
elements.
L.H.O.O.Q. (1919)
ABSTRACTIONISM by Marcel Duchamp
White Center (Yellow, Pink, and
Lavander on Rose) (1950) by Mark Rothko
SURREALISM WORKS AND LIFE OF GEORGIA O’KEEFFE
o From an art movement in the early 20th century. o An American Modernist Artist known for her distinctive paintings of enlarged
o Explores dreamlike and irrational aspects of the human psyche. flower, New York skyscrapers, and New Mexico landscapes.
o Paintings created were unrelated to the real world elements to evoke a o Her urban and architectural paintings, including her series of New York
sense of uncanny and subconscious. Skyscrapers, gained recognition in the 1920s and help her establish a name
in the art world.
SURREALISM o Georgia O’keeffe artworks were associated with American Modernism,
The Persistence of Memory (1931) Precisionism, and Abstract art.
by Salvador Dali o She has a significant contribution to the American art development due to
her ability to merge Abstractionism with representation, focus on nature,
and American landscape.
WOMEN ARTISTS UNDER PAINTING
o Georgia O’keeffe was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in1977.
TAMARA DE LEMPICKA (1898 – 1980)
o A Polish Deco painter. KEY ELEMENTS IN THE ARTWORKS OF GEORGIA O’KEEFFE
o Paints stylish and glamorous portraits in the 1920s and 1930s. o Precision and Detail – intricate and precise rendering of objects.
o Close-up Look – magnification of things to a point where viewers can see
BERTHE MORISOT (1841 – 1895)
the flowers in a new and intimate way, sometimes, seen as sexual.
o A French Impressionist painter and member of Impressionist Circle.
o Combination of Abstract and Representation – highly abstract but firmly
o Known for her depiction of domestic scenes and portraits.
grounded in real world.
ROSA BONHEUR (1822 – 1899)
o Vibrant Colors – using bold and vibrant colors to create strong visual
o A French Realist painter.
impact.
o Known for her detailed and large-scale animal painting.
o Sensual and Feminine Imagery – flower paintings were interpreted as
o Her famous painting is called “The Horse Fair.”
feminine and sensual.
o Simplicity and Minimalism – a single central subject against a plain
LEE KRASNER (1908 – 1984)
background.
o An American Abstract Expressionist painter in the leagues of Jackson
o Dramatic Landscapes – American southwest landscape painting.
Pollock (her husband).
o Personal Expression – her perspectives and connection to the natural
o She is the pioneer of the Abstract Art and is known for her vibrant and
world.
innovative work.
LOUISE BOURGEOIS (1911 – 2010)
o A French American artist known for sculpture and installation art that
explores the theme of feminism, sexuality, and human physique.
WORKS OF GEORGIA O’KEEFFE o The painting was created when Georgia witnessed the corpses of animals in
JIMSON WEED / WHITE FLOWER NO. 1 (1936) a wide dessert, animals’ death was caused by starvation. She was
o A close-up view of a large white jimson wed and its intricate detail. fascinated by the bones and saw it as keenly alive in the dessert.
o It was sold for $44.4 million in an 2014 auction and makes it
as the most expensive painting ever sold by a woman artist.
While the most expensive painting ever sold is the
“Salvador Mundi” by Leonardo da Vinci at $450.3 million.
RED CANNA (1904)
o A vibrant red canna lily in a magnified form. The flower
being at the center which emphasized abstract and ISSUES AND STRUGGLES THAT GEORGIA O’KEEFFE FACED
organic qualities. o Misinterpretation of her flower paintings in a sexual and erotic in nature by
o The vibrant red color creates a depiction of sexuality and viewers.
femininity. o Marital struggle or her complex relationship with Alfred due to him being
abusive and his affairs with many people.
BLACK IRIS III (1926)
o Pressure on recognition and maintaining consistent and successful artistic
o A part of the painting series of Iris flower.
identity.
o A close-up view of a dark purple iris flower that showcases
o Health issues including eyesight failure in the latter part of her life.
the intricate and delicate features while giving a sense of
mystery and sensuality.
HOLLYHOCK BLUE LARKSPUR NO. 2 (1930)
o It features a bouquet of blue larkspur flowers
intertwined with a hollyhock blossom.
o The arrangement represents nature’s beauty in a
simple yet impactful manner.
COW’S SKULL WITH CALICO ROSES (1931)
o It combines American landscape of Southwest with a cow skull adorned
with a vibrant calico rose.
o A contrast of life and death as a theme.
o Artistic innovation and symbolism together with American landscape.
o Symbol: White calico rose was used to decorate graves in New Mexico.