Soul-Making (Artmaking) - PDF

GE2404 SOUL-MAKING (ARTMAKING) Art is not just about creating beautiful images; it’s also about telling stories and expressing deeper meanings. The concept of soul-making refers to the process artists undergo to connect their feelings and experiences with the world ar...

GE2404 SOUL-MAKING (ARTMAKING) Art is not just about creating beautiful images; it’s also about telling stories and expressing deeper meanings. The concept of soul-making refers to the process artists undergo to connect their feelings and experiences with the world around them. This module explores various aspects of artistic expression, including crafting images, stories, da Vincian principles, and the complexities of cultural appropriation. Crafting Images and Stories Crafting images in art uses shapes, colors, and forms to express emotions, ideas, or messages without words. This can be achieved through various methods, such as composition (arranging visual elements), symbolism (using objects or colors to represent ideas), mood (creating feelings with color and texture), and focus (highlighting details to direct attention). These approaches vary based on the medium and the artist's purpose. Crafting stories in art creates characters, plots, and settings to convey a message or experience and requires a clear narrative structure. Depending on the medium and the artist's intent, these approaches help connect with audiences through different forms, such as literature, film, or performance. In conclusion, art can combine images and stories, blending visuals with narrative to enhance meaning. Seven da Vincian Principles Leonardo da Vinci, a master artist and thinker, developed seven principles to guide artists through their soul-making journey. These principles foster creativity and critical thinking. 1. Curiosità (Curiosity) – Cultivate a desire to learn and explore new ideas. Da Vinci captivated his curiosity by asking "what if" and "how come" to any scenarios he could anticipate. 2. Dimostrazione (Demonstration) – Practice what you learn and share your knowledge with others. Da Vinci devoted himself to testing knowledge through experience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from his mistakes. 3. Sensazione (Sensation) – Enhance your senses to perceive the world more deeply. According to Da Vinci, “The five senses are the ministers of the soul.” 4. Sfumato – Embrace ambiguity and uncertainty in your work. Da Vinci was uniquely able to understand the extreme opposites of opinions and phenomena. 5. Arte/Scienza (Art/Science) – Combine artistic expression with scientific understanding. Da Vinci promoted the idea of balancing science and art, logic and imagination, which he called "whole-brain thinking.” This concept emphasizes the integration of rationality and creativity, aiming for a comprehensive approach to understanding and constructing. 6. Corporalita (Physicality): Engage your body and physical presence in your art. Da Vinci believed that if he wanted his mind to perform optimally, he needed to keep his body in perfect condition. 7. Connessione (Connection) – Recognize the interconnectedness of all things. Da Vinci believed, "Everything comes from everything, and everything is made out of everything, and everything returns into everything.” 07 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 1 of 3  GE2404 Five Acts of Cultural Appropriation Cultural appropriation occurs when artists borrow elements from another culture without understanding or respecting their context. This can include symbols, traditions, or styles in a way that may be seen as disrespectful or exploitative, reinforcing stereotypes. Artists should approach cultural elements with sensitivity and awareness. There are five acts of cultural appropriation: 1. Misrepresentation of Cultural Symbols – A common act of cultural appropriation is when artists use symbols from other cultures without understanding their significance. Example: Using Native American headdresses in fashion or art can be problematic because they hold deep spiritual significance and are meant for specific individuals within those cultures. When worn casually, it reduces their importance and can reinforce stereotypes. 2. Commercialization of Cultural Art Forms – Another form of appropriation is when cultural art forms are used for profit without understanding their origins. Example: A company might sell items inspired by Indigenous art without compensating the original artists or communities. This benefits others, removes the cultural context, and ignores the struggles those communities face. 3. Stereotyping Through Art – Art can reinforce harmful stereotypes when it portrays cultures in a simplified or exaggerated way. Example: An artist might create a caricature of a culture by focusing on clichés, like portraying all Asian cultures through martial arts or dragons. This simplification disregards the diversity and complexity of these cultures, leading to misunderstandings and reinforcing negative stereotypes. 4. Exploitation of Traditional Techniques – Many artists have borrowed traditional techniques from different cultures without giving proper credit. Example: A Western artist might use intricate patterns from African textiles without acknowledging the cultural significance behind those designs. This act can exploit the original culture's craft and diminish the value of their art by utilizing it as a mere decoration. 5. Lack of Collaboration and Consent – One of the most significant issues in cultural appropriation arises when artists do not seek collaboration or consent from the cultures they draw from. This can create a power imbalance, where dominant cultures take from marginalized individuals without acknowledgment. Example: When an artist outside the Black community uses elements of Black culture without engaging with Black artists or communities, it can feel exploitative. Genuine artistic expression requires dialogue, respect, and collaboration. Ownership in Art Ownership in art refers to the rights an artist has over their work. This includes the ability to control how their art is used or represented. Artists often advocate for recognition and respect for their work, 07 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 2 of 3  GE2404 especially in an age where digital sharing makes it easy for images to be copied and altered without permission. In summary, crafting images and crafting stories are essential aspects of artmaking. While images can convey emotions and messages, narratives provide context and depth. Understanding the balance between these elements can enhance our appreciation for art and its significance in society. Additionally, recognizing issues of appropriation and ownership encourages respectful discussion with the diverse cultures and histories that inform artistic expression. As you continue your journey in art, consider how you can incorporate your own stories into your creations while being mindful of the stories of others. References: Bathla, S. (2022, August 8). Da Vinci’s 7 (Timeless) Principles to think like a Genius! Medium. https://medium.com/@sombathla/leonardo-da-vincis-7-timeless-principles-to-think-like-a-genius-6bd96946055e. Cuncic, A., MA. (2024, May 24). The differences between appreciating and appropriating culture. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-cultural-appropriation-5070458. Dailymotion. (n.d.). https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8a8csd. Jeepy P. Compio, & Jeepy P. Compio. (2023, September 25). Ugong Sa Tig-Ani: Noi Narciso's exhibit of 'DIY' musical instruments made from scraps. SunStar Publishing Inc. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/feature/ugong-sa-tig- ani-noi-narcisos-exhibit-of-diy-musical-instruments-made-from-scraps. Murphy, C. (2024, August 29). What is cultural appropriation—and how do you avoid it? Health. https://www.health.com/mind-body/health-diversity-inclusion/what-is-cultural- appropriation#:~:text=Cultural%20appropriation%20involves%20using%20aspects,aspects%20without%20compen sating%20the%20owner. Rabaya, C. Y. (2019, June 16). Interactive exhibit features musical instruments from scraps. Atenews. https://atenews.ph/interactive-exhibit-features-musical-instruments-from-scraps. 07 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 3 of 3