Claude Monet described his process of seeing/feeling amidst nature in this 1868 letter to Frederic Bazille: “Don’t you think that one does nature better alone? One is too preoccupied with what one sees and hears in Paris…What I will do here will at least have the merit of not resembling anybody, because it will simply be the impression of what I will have felt myself alone.” What are your thoughts on Monet’s relationship with nature as this great painter and interpreter of light at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries defines a pathway for Modernism?
Art Appreciation...On-Line 
Module 17
Which of the artists in this learning module do you most prefer? Which specific work do you prefer and why? Did any artists fall flat as far as you are concerned, offering nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe is missing?
I enjoyed most works by the artists in this learning module, but I took a particular interest in Manet. In his 1865 painting “Dead Toreador,” a matador lies lifelessly on the ground after he has been gored by a bull. I have always found bullfighting, especially the Spanish version, to be barbaric and unnecessarily cruel to the animals. I therefore tend to pass over images of bullfighting rather quickly. This painting confronted me with a starkly different reality than the one to which I was accustomed. That is, that the profession is sometimes just as unforgiving and cruel to the matador. An excellent use of color is employed in the painting; the flag is a dull pink while the blood is a dark red. In this I interpret that the artist is emphasizing the triviality of bullfighting when compared to the risks the sport requires.
I was underwhelmed by the 1865 painting “The Execution of Maximilian” by Manet. The emphasis is on the firing line when I believe the audience is most concerned with the emotions of Maximilian in his final moments. The former emperor is entirely obscured by smoke and is perhaps irrelevant to the composition.
Module 18
After reviewing this learning module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his paintings?
Monet is a talented painter and I enjoyed many of his works. One in particular is the 1900 painting “Giverny in Springtime.” I find it interesting that the lower section of the composition is ordered, while the upper section is chaotic. The vertical lines of the grass, the tree trunks and the trees in the background contrast sharply with the sprawling web-like branches above. As a result, the viewer’s gaze is directed forward and is disinclined to look above. This is interesting as the branches are covered with colorful flowers, while the lower section is populated with dull greens and browns. The end result is a complex painting that is very cleverly composed. Interestingly, casinos also create environments in which the eye is drawn forward and disinclined to look above or below. This is accomplished with busy carpets and dull ceilings. The concept at work is extraordinarily effective.
I did not find any of Monet’s quotes particularly influential.
What are your thoughts on Monet’s relationship with nature as this great painter and interpreter of light at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries defines a pathway for Modernism?
Monet was very passionate about his work and that is always a necessary ingredient of greatness. He tried to improve his paintings to the best of his ability and took an almost scientific approach in searching for perfection. It was necessary for him to fully understand nature by immersing himself into its very essence. In painting an object in many different lighting conditions, he was able to obtain a greater understanding of both perception and the painting process.
Learning Module #17
Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most? Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection? Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
The artist work that I prefer would have to be Gustave Courbet. To me, his work offers the greatest details and most vivid expressions. He seems to utilize a person which depicts realism in my eyes, and that person is himself in the self portrait. This is the specific work that I found most intriguing. In this piece of art work it seems he captures himself in a way that only he can. It entails much detail and an intense self portrayal.
I honestly do not think that any of the artists fell flat. They all seemed to deliver great art work with reasonable meanings.
Learning Module # 18
After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his painitngs?
The image that struck me in terms of satisfying personal preferences for work of art was the painting of the Water Lilies 1900. This image made an impact on me because it was simple but detailed, quiet but full of life, and beautiful all at the same time. Monet uses light and beautiful colors to depict the scene of water lilies floating. I find it quite breath taking and the quote even more intriguing. “I’m getting madder and madder on giving back what I feel.” While most may think of anger as a negative emotion, when it comes to production in the arts it may be one of the most intense and motivating emotions. This particular quote made me feel his compassion for his work.
1.Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most? Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection? Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
I preferred Delacroix, his paintings are stunning. “Liberty Leading the People” is a very interesting piece. It stood out to me. The red of the tri colored flag is very vibrant and contrasting to the rest of the image. Most of these paintings seem to deal with war or corruption. I would have liked to see some different subject matter from these artists.
Manet’s works were a little underwhelming to me because of his lack of backgrounds. Maybe it was his way to emphasize the main objects in the paintings, but I think it weakens the works as wholes. I also agree with Vishal about the “The Execution of Maximilian” painting.
2. After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his paintings?
I like the painting “Japanese Footbridge and Water Lily Garden”
It hurts my eyes to look at it because of the warm color scheme, but I also enjoy looking at it. The brush strokes show movement in the painting. The river flows, the bushes grow upward, and the trees grow downward. Even the bridge moves. The bridge really stands out, it contrasts with the rest of the image.
“At night I am obsessed with what I am striving to achieve. In the morning I get up broken by fatigue. The dawn gives me courage, but my anxiety rushes back as soon as I set foot into the studio. How difficult it is to paint…It really is torture.”
This is how I feel about balancing my full time job and school. I sleep less than normal now, on top of my sleeping disorders. I always wake up fatigued, then have no time for breakfast and the fatigue is with me throughout the day. I am always thinking about what needs to be done, what is due. I am also an artist and have a very hard time fitting my hobbies and passions into my difficult schedule.
LM 17:
I preferred Delacroix and his painting “Liberty Leading the People.” I think I made this selection in terms of an artist because he paints great scenes of war, and in terms of a painting because this particular painting was bought by the French government yet removed from view as being too glorified of liberty which probably has to do with the woman holding the French flag which infers she is leading the revolt. Although Millet does communicate social scenes, he lacked creativity in making it interesting. In his “the sower,” unlike the other two paintings, it doesn’t look like there is much concept of activity or motion.
LM 18:
“The Japanese footbridge and Water Lilly Garden” satisfied personal preferences for art, and made an impact because of the bright colors and the way it sticks out from the other paintings being that other paintings have more traditional colors. There is even a painting of the Japanese footbridge and Water Lilly Garden using traditional colors like green plants, while the second “the Japanese footbridge and Water Lilly Garden” has more expressionist colors like purple and pink plants.
Monet’s quote: “…the more I go on, the more difficult it is for me to render what I feel; and I tell myself that he who says he has finished a canvas is terribly arrogant. Finished, meaning complete, perfect. I work without progressing, looking, groping, without arriving at anything much but to the point of exhaustion,” made an impact on me as it sounds like being an artist was hard for him and that painting was more difficult as he tried to express his feelings in his art. Since he also seemed troubled by the idea that no canvas was complete (perfect), he must’ve suffered over the incomplete and imperfect works he did and how he was unable to make them complete. Another quote of Monet that made an impact was: “Nature is greatness, power, and immortality; compared with her a creature is nothing but a miserable atom.” This shows the influence of Japanese philosophy of nature: humans are a small part in nature and are powerless. It is a good example of the Japanese influences on the Impressionists.
Monet’s Relationship with Nature:
Monet quote: “Don’t you think that one does nature better alone? One is too preoccupied with what one sees and hears in Paris…What I will do here will at least have the merit of not resembling anybody, because it will simply be the impression of what I will have felt myself alone.” This seems to be another influence of Japanese philosophy as solitary figures also were frequent in their paintings and prints of nature usually showing people as a small part of nature and the solitary figure is usually the one enjoying nature or depicted in positive backgrounds of nature.
Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most? Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection? Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
I preferred Eugene Delacroixs’ work as opposed to the others. I like how his work is vivid, and detailed. It brings out emotion in one when one views it, and one can literally see and feel what the people in the painting were feeling. My favorite was “The Death of Sardanapalus”. The colors he chose compliment each other beautifully and you can feel the pain.
Goya’s pieces of art were a little underwhelming for me. They seemed almost cartoonish. I think it is the lack of detail on the peoples faces that make them look like cartoons. Also their facial expressions, and how he portrays peoples bodies, like in “3rd of May 1808”. The man in focus, with the white shirt has a weird head shape
After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his painitngs?
Monet has always been one of my favorite artists. My favorite image of his from this slide is “La Grenouillere”. It is peaceful. The water looks like you could literally reach out and touch it. The people look like they are all enjoying themselves. The colors he chose add to the serenity of the painting. The quote that stood out to me was, ” I have no other wish than to mingle more closely with nature, and I aspire to no other destiny than to work and live in harmony with her laws, as Goethe prescribed. Nature is greatness, power, and immortality ; compared with her a creature is nothing but a miserable atom.” This quote made an impact on me, because he portrays this quote in his artwork. His paintings are mostly of nature and her beauty.
What are your thoughts on Monet’s relationship with nature as this great painter and interpreter of light at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries defines a pathway for Modernism?
When one views Monet’s artwork, the can’t help but to feel his passion not only for his work, but nature as well. He portrays nature with such beauty and vibrance. He choses beautiful colors. One can’t help but to feel inspired when viewing his work.
Module 17 & 18
First of all, I enjoyed the modernism of Monet’s relationship with nature. I feel he articulated the gardens very well. His paintings make the seasons come brighter to the observer, He makes you pay more attention to flowers and trees. Like in Popular Trees 1891 – This piece has an aray of beautiful colors that we hardly ever notice in nature, as well as given a view of these tree has the sun rise. Either way he illustrates the nature beauty of a tree, which some of us would probably say its just a skinny brown tree, yet in the eyes of Monte – this tree had red, green, brown, and mostly orange. This piece screamed ” FALL”!
17
The artist Manet was the artist I preferred because, his sense of romance was breathing taking in boating, 1874. I enjoy art that gives the viewer a sentiment reminder of some special moments they have experience in there life. The gentlemen in the piece has a gracefulness about him, the young lady is seating back with a look as if she i hanging on his every word, and just admiring how handsome is to her. A first date gaze.
For me; Courbet fall flat and did see one thing that displayed him name that had any creativity whatsoever. They where simplistic at best, the self portrait looks like he was coming out of a drug overdose or a mental break down of some kind. Even, the freedom statement listed with the portrait was uncomprehending to a person with a realistic state of mind. It is missing character, creativity, and originality it somewhat hard to look at for more than a few minutes.
18
Now as a personal preference I would select ” The water Lily Garden” by Monte, not because is listed to be expensive more so because it captivates he essences of the pond and all of the greenery with the area. To the naked eye is just a watery stream picture, yet to the eye of an art lover, it is a place that usher in peace and tranquility. It give a sense of holiness to the appearances. This picture made the greatest impression on me, because In Louisiana, I use to go to place like this an fish with my uncle, I use to love that part of the summer, and now I am adult and he has passed. But, it was so great when we did have the opportunity to go It’s called the springs.
The quote: “I am getting madder and madder, on giving back what I feel” his was good quote for the people of today, everybody what something and don’t want to do nothing to get it, as well a lot of people what other people to do things for them and when the same person ask them to do something they are unavailable so yes, these types of people make me madder and madder.
+ Learning Module 17
-Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most?
Eugene Delacroix
-Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection?
My favorite of his works include the painting from 1830 named “Liberty Leading the People”. I like this for two reasons: 1) because the symbolism of this portrait is politic, enlightening, romantic, liberating, and most of all.. allegorical. and 2) because it reminds me of ColdPlay’s “Viva La Vida”… “Liberty Leading the People” portrait is their album cover.
-Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing
in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
No. I don’t believe so, but my least favorite of artists from this section would be Jean-Francois Millet’s. I think this is due to the fact that all of the paintings look alike, and I find myself incapable of relating to any of them.
+Learning Module 18
-After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfyingpersonal preferences for works of art?
The Japanese Footbridge and Water Lily Garden was one of my favorites from this powerpoint. I am drawn to this painting because my favorite color is green, and this painting has a lot of it! I also appreciate this one above the others because I think that there is an obvious and intentional balance between nature (the greenery) and mans existence (the bridge).
-Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you?
See above.
-Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his paintings?
“I was right last year to be dissatisfied; it is horrible, and what I am doing this time is also bad, but just bad in another way, thats all..”
Although his statement most likely pertains to his view towards his quality of work, I cant help but think of his remark as a comment regarding mankind and its persistent, obsessive desire to exist as ethical and superior individuals, only to be met with dissatisfaction in retrospect as they continue err; an unfortunate component of the Homo sapiens.
LM 17
Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most? Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection? Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
The artist that was most appealing to me was Eugene Delacroix. I like how most of his paintings include war, liberty and romantic passion. I especially like the picture, “Liberty Leading the People 1830.” The woman holding the tri-color flag is the main focal point in which she looks so glorious and refined though they just conquered in a war.
LM 18
After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his painitngs?
The image that struck me most was the picture of Sainte-Adresse, 1865. I believe this image made an impact on me because it consists of things that remind me of home. The water, the sky, light and the horizon all remind me of the many beaches that I always used to go to when I lived in Hawaii. This painting is so beautiful and serene. I love how he emphasized the coastline and how he included many sailboats going on their way. This picture is filled with serenity. I have to say the quote that I liked most was, “I am not a great painter, great poet. I just know that I do what I can to express what I feel in front of nature.” He was very passionate with nature and made a huge impact on his thoughts, his life and his paintings.
What are your thoughts on Monet’s relationship with nature as this great painter and interpreter of light at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries defines a pathway for Modernism?
Monet really loved nature. He obviously didn’t like the hustle and bustle in the city of Paris. He just wanted to stay in Giverny fully comforted by nature. I love his use of light and color and rapid brushstrokes. Monet has become an epic painter and will be remembered for many years to come.
Module 17:
While all of the artists in module 17 are extremely talented and unique, I prefer the works of Barbizon best. His paintings are very detailed and life-like. I’ve always favored landscapes and scenery so his art adheres to my preferences. The piece which I liked best is the picture on the last slide of the Barbizon section. The picture shows a wooded area with numerous rocks and trees. The scene is so realistic it is almost as if gazing through a window. Because of my inability to realistically recreate nature, I’ve always been fascinated by such art. To me, none of the artists “fell flat.” Each artist possesses a unique view on life, and thus, a unique method of painting. While I preferred Barbizon’s landscapes, I certainly could not discredit any of the other artists’ work.
Module 18:
Of all the Monet paintings, the one which most coincided with my feelings toward art is the Beach at Sainte-Adresse. Growing up in New Jersey, I’ve spent most of my summers at the beach. Perhaps because of my location I am biased toward beach painting, but Monet’s use of color and light is remarkable. The sky and water truly capture my attention from every ripple in the water to each new cloud. The Monet quote I liked best was, ” I have no other wish than to mingle more closely with nature, and I aspire to no other destiny than to work and live in harmony with her laws, as Goethe prescribed. Nature is greatness, power, and immortality ; compared with her a creature is nothing but a miserable atom.”
His views on nature are very similar to those of transcendentalists, such as Robert Frost. His insight is intuitive and I agree with his view on nature as the bigger picture.
Modules 19 & 20
How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
I would describe Picasso’s painting as a state of confusion, because it gives a perspective and many things all happening at one time.
What do you see?
There are some parts that look as if there is a face or some kind in the upper right side. Or even a collage of thoughts or a series of events all happening at once. Or even a maze of directions all meeting at the same point. There is really no set starting or ending point in sight for the observer.
What do you like in this painting?
I like fact that Picasso gave the world its views of abstract art up close and personal. So, that the observer can almost; see what they want to see in the piece with actual depicting it the same. Each individual that looks at this piece can characterize it as what they want it to be to them,
What do you dislike in this painting?
There is very little color or life displayed in the piece. As if this was his depression stage in his life, the pain that he encountered in his personal relationships and his overall life cycle, was not what he depicted it to be.
What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
Once art got to this point from images that were given in the power point, they became plain and re-makes of originals. Originality was almost nonexistent to the naked eye. I have not always been a person that observer or paid all of attention to detail, until I took this class. Where is a requirement to focus on the details, it is gratifying to know that I can almost tell what stage in the artists’ life but the works they produced at that time. I enjoyed the earlier century art more. The modernism of the 20th century was not as creativity, not as empathetic, and more so not emotionally touching as the Greek or gothic arts to me.
Modules 19-20
How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
Picasso’s painting is indescribable. It is merely a collection of shapes, while at the same time existing as something larger.
What do you see?
I see a pharaoh’s headdress being reflected incorrectly across a horizontal axis — maybe.
What do you like in this painting?
I like the dimension, the creativity, the shading, and the emphasis on linear forms.
What do you dislike in this painting?
I do not particularly dislike anything, but I would prefer a greater use of color.
What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
I really like 20th century modernism because of its creativity. It is one of my favorite art periods.
+Learning Module 19 and 20
-How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
Picasso’s paintings are colorful, imaginative and different from many of the other artists we have studied. Some of his paintings are realistic and others are very abstract. I find it interesting that his work has been categorized into different periods. Picasso’s Blue period and rose period are my two favorites. These periods demonstrate the realistic side of his work. They are extremely detailed and life like. Many of the paintings from the Blue and Rose Period are portraits.
-What do you see?
This specific painting is difficult to interpret and understand. I see a person, probably a woman, and I see hands. In all honesty, all I really see are lines… I tried to research this painting of “Ma Jolie” to find out its background and what it really is a picture of.. and still, ..I see lines.
-What do you like in this painting?
I like that this painting is able to conceal a person between geometric lines, but that it also is capable of revealing a person within those lines.
-What do you dislike in this painting?
I dislike that it does not have very much color. I also dislike the fact that the more you look at it to try and figure out what it is a picture of, the more you end up losing the image. It is truly confusing. With most art, one can gain more insight after staring at it for longer than just a glance.. with this portrait, I look longer than a glance and I gain nothing.
-What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
My thoughts on 20th century modernism are mixed. I think that the art from this time period is either really good, or really bad. I like the abstract and surrealism, but I don’t enjoy all of it. For example, I see nothing in Rothko’s “Blue Orange Red” painting. It looks like someone asked a 7 year old to paint rectangles on the living room wall. Or Pollock’s Lavender Mist.. I have to admit that I would love for his painting to be the wallpaper in my bathroom, but that’s all I see it as…Wallpaper.
Module 19-20
1. How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
Picasso’s paintings are colorful and detailed. They are black and white, and abstract. His paintings can be described in a number of ways. His Dove is one of the most simplest paintings I have every seen but it is very effective. His abstract art is what most people know him by.
2. What do you see?
I see mostly geometric shapes with some curves here and there. It is shaded to give it volume and depth.
3.What do you like in this painting?
I like that you have to interpret this painting. I can kind of see a face in the middle there where the shapes collide. It is an interesting piece. This is the kind of painting that you can look at for a long time and still have questions. Other paintings can be very straight forward.
4. What do you dislike in this painting?
I think this piece needs color. Color might emphasize some of the other figures that are harder to see. Color may make the painting less strong though.
5. What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
I really like Salvador Dali, he is one of my favorite painters. His works are all very original. One of my favorite paintings by him is “Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee Around a Pomegranate a Second Before Awakening”. The title is basically a description of the painting but what a painting. This is one painting that has a title that describes both the painting and the inspiration!
LM 19 & 20: 20th Century Art
I would describe the painting as cubist. It seems to be a transition period in art between recognizable objects (face and hands in painting) to abstraction (rest of painting).
In the middle of the painting toward the top I see what resembles a face, and toward the bottom in the middle I see hands clasped together. To the side of the face there appears to be object with a handle.
I like that the cubist style makes it look like the subject is surrounded by boxes due to the geometrical shapes he painted. I don’t like that the painting seems to have no distinction of subject matter: no foreground, mid-ground, or background (everything blends together) which causes the viewer to find what they can recognize.
Thoughts on Modernity:
Dada art seemed to mock modern society, and started the idea that anyone can create art by saying any object was art. Cubism experimented with different forms, and seemed to show society was changing but didn’t know what change it wanted or if they did, didn’t know how. Futurism had radial notions of getting rid of everything old which like Dada criticized modernity. Surrealism being more psychological and philosophical in nature dealt more dove into the subconscious and considered art second, and rejected traditional values so like others greatly criticized society but using psychology. De Stijl also had geometric forms like cubism but had simple lines (geometric simplification). Abstract Expressionism was a reaction to WWII and was existentialist in nature. I wonder how artists like Pollock and Rothko thought they could clearly communicate messages through such abstract paintings. People now a day’s say art like abstraction is easy and that anyone can do (but when first introduced to public was shocking) but having done before it is hard to communicate a message. Pop art commented on consumerism in culture by yet again elevating everyday objects to art. Rauschenberg used discarded items for his collages and made everyday items like trash art. Minimalism returned to basic forms with geometric simplification of everything even going so far as to call three different canvases one with only red, one with only blue, and one with only yellow art (simplified to primary colors). Roy Lichenstein’s art looked like comics which publications art. Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s art involved groups and usually involved a building or something being wrapped which rejected the notions that art was only in museums and that only one person by themselves could do art. Earth art also rejected the notion that art was only in museums but also used materials from the Earth that changed over time; furthermore, it required the use of photography for the art to be exposed to people. (Does that mean photos have more importance?) Judy Chicago’s Dinner Party commented on feminism and women’s roles in society. Some art could even be walked on and is placed in hallways at museums so people do, but that people try to avoid walking on art shows that this is a new idea. It seems modern art was always rebelling against something and always trying to be new (avant-garde).
How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
It is hard to describe, It is a collection of shapes and different shades of golds and browns to create a thought – provoking piece of art.
What do you see?
I see a mans face and broad shoulders, he appears to be praying, with his hands clasped together.
What do you like in this painting?
I like how it can be portrayed as a variety of different things. I like how the colors are different shades of golds and browns.
What do you dislike in this painting?
I don’t dislike anything about this piece of art. I think it is interesting and beautiful.
What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
I think that 20th century modernism turned trends and made people think differently about art. I think it was a creative time period and an important time for art.
Module 19 & 20
How would you describe Picasso’s painting?
I see the painting as more abstract than modernism. It is very unique in the use of shapes and color. The only colors used seem to be stale and un-lively which tend to give the painting a droller boring feel. However, it is still extremely interesting because the painting can be interpreted by many as many different things.
What do you see?
In this painting all I see are an array of shapes scattered about to form an abstract painting of nothing at all at a first glance. After studying it for awhile I can make out what seems to be a woman with a sitting down with her hands on her lap.
What do you like in this painting?
In this painting I like the use of shapes to form a picture. It is a very unique style.
What do you dislike in this painting?
I dislike the fact that it isn’t more realistic. At first glance one cannot tell exactly what the painting is or what the artist is trying to portray through this selected piece of work.
What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
I feel that the art as a whole is very unique in style and offers the world of art a more symbolic feel. I love the fact that the art is made in the way that it does not necessarily have to be anything literal and it does not have to make sense but it can still be wonderfully brilliant.
What are your thoughts on Monet’s relationship with nature as this great painter and interpreter of light at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries defines a pathway for Modernism?
I believe Monet truly had a passion for nature, and this is why he painted so many pictures of it, rather than of civilization. In his quote he talks about how he does not like Paris, because of the sounds and sights. Monet obviously did not like civilized society, and preferred nature, like Thoreau and other greats. I am glad he stuck by his preferences though, because his pictures of nature are beautiful.
Which of the artists in this learning module do you prefer the most? Which specific work do you prefer and why do you think you made this selection? Did any of these artists fall flat as far as you are concerned and offered you nothing in terms of creativity and communication? If yes, which artist and work and what do you believe was missing?
Out of the artists in the module, I would have to say I prefer Goya for a variety of reasons. I like his paintings because of the wide variety of things he painted, but his paintings that were against the French and Spanish war particularly got my attention. The painting “Saturn devouring his son” is quite stunning. All the artists have great work, I would have chosen Delacroix as second by a close margin.
After reviewing this Learning Module on Monet and Impressionism, what image struck you in terms of satisfying personal preferences for works of art? Why do you believe this selected image by Monet made such an impact on you? Was there a quote by Monet that made a strong impact on you as with one of his paintings?
The painting I chose has a special meaning to me, and it is Monet’s “Japanese Footbridge and water Lilly garden.” It is one of my mother’s favorite paintings, and I remember seeing it at a gallery when I was younger. We have since always had a duplication of the painting in our house, and it is a vivid image in my mind. I believe that I am so fond of it because it has a special meaning, and seems like a connection i have with my mother. I like the quote that goes with it as well, I did not know he said that, but it is a striking comment. His work is what lets his mind ease, but he has trouble focusing while so much negative happens around him. This is probably why he decided to paint objects of nature, to give a peaceful and calm view of the world.
Learning Module 17
From looking at all the artists shown in this learning module, I have come to realize that Courbet was my favorite artist shown in this section. I chose this artist because he brightens the paintings by using a majority of colors that bring light and life to the picture. One example of his work is The Encounter 1854, I chose this piece because it’s a perfect example of using color to bring life to it. This piece draws you in and tells a story of its own. This brings the three men shown in the picture and gives you a look into their emotions. An artist I was not to fond of in this module was Millet. This artist did not interest me because in his pieces he hides the faces of the people drawn in a way that leaves you with questions on the emotions that should be shown. An example of his work is The Gleaners 1857, the guys face is hidden and the painting does not show any type of story or light.
Learning Module 18
From looking at Monet’s work I have learned that in his work color is the main theme. He can create a picture from a plain garden into a magnificent piece of beauty using the essence of nature and color that may not come instantly to the human eye. The painting I chose was the Japanese Footridge and Water Lily Garden, I chose this because this is absolutely beautiful and magnificent. The color used brings out very plant out of the water and onto the surface. This instantly caught my eye because of the beautiful detail shown. Color is the key to a great piece and Monet uses that to his advantage. A quote used in this module is “ At Night I am Obsessed with what I am striving to achieve. In the morning I get up broken with fatigue. The drawn gives me courage, but my anxiety rushes back as soon as I set foot into the studio. How difficult it is to paint…It really is torture.” This quote to me explains the life of Monet in a few short sentences. He strives for perfection in every piece in order to recreate the image he dreamed of in the past.
Learning Modules 19 and 20
Picasso is known all around the world as a great artist. A painting that is very well-known is The Guernica. This painting is very odd, as I first looked at it, I assumed it was multiple pieces. From looking at this I do like variety given in this piece. From looking at The Guernica I do not like the confusion, because of the different things drawn. I can honestly say I can not tell what is trying to be shown in this piece. I believe that 20th century modernism is very popular and easy to connect with because of the diversity shown in pieces that can satisfy any type of person.
I believe Monet’s outlook on nature is very personal. He believes nature should be left alone and not changed. He believes it has its own personality and own way of showing itself to the world. This does bring us into modernism because of the way we will look at nature and how it will we be shown in the future.
Module 20:
I have always found the works of Pablo Picasso as interesting and open to interpretation. Depending on the individual, one can have very different views on the painting in question. In this painting, similar to many of Picasso’s pieces, it is difficult to determine the message he is attempting to convey. In the painting, I believe I see the head of a person in the upper right echelon of the painting. While the image is distorted, I am able to see eyes and hair. I like Picasso’s usage of shapes, and also, like most art, there is no correct way to view the picture. However, that is something I dislike about the painting. I wish I were able to conceptually identify the image in question. 20th century modernism, though, is one of my favorite periods of art. I like how distorted paintings can be and how each artist views things in different lights. It opens up the eyes of the audience and elicits creativity and imagination.
I love what Monet wrote about getting away from the city and everyone to find his own interpretation of light. He didn’t want to be influenced by anything unnatural. His art reflects that. It’s as though he dissected the light and and what he painted is what one sees when close up to nature. Just a bunch of blur, but from far away it becomes a beautiful picture, like his paintings.
Learning Module 17
I prefer Manet the most. His paintings are somehow serene, even the less peaceful scenes. They are all pleasant to look at, and they emphasize the important things instead of showing every single detail. The particular piece I liked was “Luncheon on the Grass.” The detail is beautiful, but it also seems to have a lot of meaning in it. I don’t know the original intentions, but it seems as though the woman is meant to stand out the most, considering she is lighter and brighter than anything else. She is completely bare, which seems to say that she has no status, no meaning in society. The other woman seems to fade into the background as she works without being noticed. I didn’t feel as though any of the artists “fell flat.” While I prefer to look at some over others, it is more of the pleasantness, rather than the quality or meaning. Each of the pieces seemed to be full of meaning and beauty, in there own ways.
Learning Module 18
The image that struck me the most was “Water Lilies 1918.” I would love to see the full color palette used in paintings such as this, because there is definitely more than you see at first sight. I find it absolutely amazing how he can blend so many colors together and so many images to come out with some of the most descriptive and beautiful scenes of nature. Everything looks so full of life! My favorite quote of his is:
“I am not a great painter, great poet. I just know that I do what I can to express what I feel in front of nature.” He didn’t think of himself as anything special, yet he is incredibly famous for his beautiful works of art. He simply wanted to express his passion for nature. His paintings seem as though they were like a journal to him. Everyone needs a way to express themselves, and painting was his.
Module 19
How would you describe Picasso’s painting? What do you see? What do you like in this painting? What do you dislike in this painting? What are your thoughts on 20th century modernism?
I would describe Picasso’s painting as very eclectic and worthy of attention. I, especially, like the look of his Picasso’s Portrait of D H Kahnweiler, which looks very cool because just glancing or momentarily looking gives the impression that one is looking at an interesting sculpture made of bricks or paper machete, especially around the edges. There is nothing I dislike about this painting, as it provokes thought…and it is difficult for me to dislike that which makes me think. This block essence to the painting seems to give a possible impression that Mr. or Ms.Kahnweiler is perhaps a complicated person… difficult to figure out as is the painting. My opinions of 20th century modernism is that it is sometimes necessary for different art forms to be created, refined and revisited in the same manner it helps advance society. It’s about looking forward, not backward in my opinion.
Module # 20
I think the artist and poets discussed in this module are very influential in that they were not afraid to follow their passions during a time when the only thing people were concerned about in Europe during that time was having a job, fears about war, etc. The fact that many of them seemed to have had their own take on things that basically justified the “why” in what they were doing, as can be concluded from many of the quotes of these artists and poets.
Module 20
To me, Picasso’s painting seems to be something that you almost have to peel away layers to truly see. You have to focus on certain shades and shapes to see different sides of the story- as if each color and pattern tells its very own story. It seems to me to emphasize how complex a simple scene can be. There is never a simple explanation, there is always more than meets the eye.
I see several men, and they all seem to have there eyes closed and there heads slightly bent as if in prayer, or being submissive. I see several women as well. I see different time eras: a man in a study with some alcoholic beverage on the table. I see a wooden table with a washing basin. I see a woman in the top left corner lookind down with a bonnet on her head . . . each time I look I see something new.
I love the shades of color that accentuate shadows and emphasize many pictures within the painting.
I don’t reaally dislike anything about the painting, although I am curious as to his real intentions with the painting.
I like 20th century modernism in the sense that there is an expectation and freedom to really express feelings, ideas, views, etc. It can trend cultural and social movements. For the most part, it seems a lot of modern art tends to be “colder.” In other words, without warmth and heart. From what I’ve seen, it emphasizes a lot of the wars and issues going on in the world. While that is important, I like to look at pieces with more compassion, in a sense, as well.
final.
Chloe Field
Robert Tracy
December 9, 2010
Art Appreciation
Goya vs. Picasso
I chose the first pair of slides to compare and contrast. The first of the two paintings is a painting by Francisco Goya, called the “3rd of May 1808”. The second of the two paintings is painting by Pablo Picasso, called “Guernica”. They are both interesting and beautiful each in their own way being as they are very different at the same time.
The first painting by Francisco Goya, the “3rd of May 1808” is colorful, detailed and realistic. It was completed in 1814 and Goya painted it to showcase the spanish resistance to Napoleon’s armies in 1808. It is an oil on canvas painting in Museo del Prado, Madrid. In the painting you can see fear and sadness. The focal point is the man in the yellow pants, and the blood spilled at his feet. The painting is almost cartoon-ish, the people are life-like but there proportions are not correct enough to be portraits. It is nighttime in the portraits and there is details in the backround.
The second painting by Pablo Picasso, “Guernica” is black and white. It is an abstract painting, both things differ from Goya’s “3rd of May 1808”. However “Guernica” was completed in 1937 but like “3rd of May 1808” it was also made by oil on canvas. It was also completed in Spain, but in Museo Reina Sofia, Madrid. Like “3rd of May 1808”, “Guernica” was also completed due to war, and the bombing of Guernica, Basque Country by German and Italian warplanes during the Spanish Civil War. This portrait portrays the devastation of war and its aftermath. It shows people suffering also like “3rd of May 1808”. One of the first focal points I see, is a man laying deceased on the ground, similar to “3rd of May 1808”. Both paintings were created to teach people about the hardships of war and how terrible it can be no matter what war it may be. Another difference is that Picasso’s painting fills up the entire painting with nothing in the back round and Goya’s back round has has detail.
A difference the paintings have is that “3rd of May 1808” is straightforward and easily proves war and its hardships. The man laying dead is clearly a man. One can clearly see at first glance there is men in uniform attacked men without uniform. One can see a man with his hands up, with terror in his eyes. “Guernica” has hidden meanings and images that you have to really look for to see, like the human skull overlaying the horses body. When one first looks at “Guernica” it takes a few minutes to see the suffering and agony of the people in the painting. The bulls head looks devilish and mean. The bull looks as if he is wearing a cape with fire or smoke coming out of his arm. Another difference in the two paintings, is that Picasso’s piece of work is meant to be a symbol of peace and an anti-war symbol. Goya’s work was meant to purely be a symbol of war, and the hatred that comes with war. However, Goya’s “3rd of May 1808” inspired Picasso’s “Guernica” and also “Massacre in Korea”.
Another difference, is an obvious one, the size of the paintings, while “3rd of May 1808” is 106 x 137 in, “Guernica” is a mural and is 137.4 x 305. 5 in. A similarity though, is that both artists were commissioned by government to create these pieces of work. Goya was commissioned by the provisional government, and Picasso was commissioned by the spanish government.
In conclusion, I think that Goya’s “3rd of May 1808” and Picasso’s “Guernica” are very different but are also very similar. Both pieces are beautiful in a sad way. They both represent death, war, and sorrow. They both represent these things in very different ways. Both things are sad and gorgeous in the same time. Even though these paintings were painted in different time periods they both mean the same thing and get their point across clearly. I like and respect each of these artists and truly enjoyed studying their work. I loved reading that Goya’s work has inspired Picasso’s. Its interesting how both of these artists portrayed war differently.