Art Thinking Segment PDF

ART THINKING SEGMENT 1– Art Noveau (1890-1910) Revolutionary artistic movement, merging art and life, blending boundaries between fine art, architecture, design and everyday objects, The movement emerged as response to rapid industrialization in the 19th century often incorporates Czech national m...

ART THINKING SEGMENT 1– Art Noveau (1890-1910) Revolutionary artistic movement, merging art and life, blending boundaries between fine art, architecture, design and everyday objects, The movement emerged as response to rapid industrialization in the 19th century often incorporates Czech national motifs and symbols of cultural identity flourished in Prague at the turn of the 20th century, leaving a legacy of stunning architecture, design, and decorative arts eg, municipal building and Café Louvre One core idea was that art should not be confined into galleries and museums, should be in spaces within daily life. Breaking away from historical styles, trying to embrace modernity. from “mundane” to pretty , “elevate” human experience Organic forms and Flowing lines, beauty into functional objects. Often experimented with new materials and techniques, (glass, iron, ceramics,) it was innovative, No mass production, (unique, handcrafted) Handicraft vs. Machine - Modern techniques, they wanted to revive traditional techniques, after alot of industrialization in society, but pblenindg it with modern technology. For example, lithographic prints work as a goo example (showcased the precision of machine printing while maintaining the artistic flair of traditional illustration) - alphonse mucha worked with this technique Many believed that having an artist leave a personal touch within the work added authenticity and focus on detail. There was alot of female forms (works as symbolism) they were depicted in alot of the art because it reflects on the themes of the movement, beauty, grace, and fertility nature was also a central theme, ife, growth, vitality Artist - Alphonse mucha, was a czech illustrator and painter, graphic artist, he had a very distinct style which he became famouse for in czechia then world wide. Groundwork for other movements, bauhaus, contempo design, not necessary in looks but through ideologies, where all elements of a space—architecture, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts—were unified in style and purpose, holistic approach influenced Bauhaus, which sought to combine art, craft, and technology into cohesive, functional designs. Graphic arts became popular and still is today (posters, books, postcards) "Art Nouveau" by Anna Suvorova - pdf Alphonse Mucha Gustav Klimt Czecha Artists Austrian 2– images and art on social media (Post internet art) Post interent art is a contemporary art movement that examines and critiques the influence of the internet and digital technologies on culture, society, and artistic practices. Bright, saturated colors, glitch effects, memes, and vaporwave aesthetics are common. reflects the fleeting/faced paced nature of online content, often existing temporarily as stories, posts, or live streams. incorporates memes, internet culture, and found digital content digital references in physical spaces art that reflects how digital life and internet culture affect the physical world, social systems, and our perception of reality Jon Rafman: 9-Eyes of Google Street View: Explores the surreal and mundane captured by Google’s mapping technology. engages with rapid changes in technology blends physical and digital mediums, such as 3D printing, augmented reality, virtual reality, and video installations draw on memes, viral content, and the aesthetics of platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok 6— Sciences: Post internet art: contempo art movement Culture, aesthetic, identity (mainly existing online) examines how the internet shapes our understanding of the world and daily lives memes, digital, aesthetics (cultural phenomenon) blending virtual and physical reality hyper saturated, gradients, memes, gifs, cgi, glitches, huomours, stock images, cores critiques consumerism, surveillance, personal data, digital age painting, sculpture, installation Hyper mediation: reality is filtered through digi devices surveillance, critique in mentioning commodifying personal data hyper connected/Fragmented world memes: discourse, contextualize, utilize, eco anxiety: tech waste, costs, ewaste, energy consumption jon rafman A contemporary art movement Began by existing solely online, has now taken other life forms in the shape of installation and sculpture, painting or fusion Used as a way to examine how the internet shapes our understanding of the world and our daily lives. (memes, digital, aesthetic) “cultural phenomenon” Characteristics : hyper saturated, memes references – utilises and re contextualized daily things we see online and find finny to conform to a specific audience glitches, humorous, stock images (core core) Often critiques consumerism, surveillance – critique on monitoring commodifying personal data personal data, digital age, issues of identity reality is filtered through digi devices, Jon Rafman – did the google street view project (you want to see it at the KW in berlin) the art form might be too niece for some viewers, “alienating” audiences who are not circulating themselves within the postmodern world, but this could be said about many art movements Some references might turn out dates as the internet moves so quickly and a new meme resurfaces everyday, so artists working with this topic need to produce a lot or hold more meaning with the work to keep it relevant Frieze article https://www.frieze.com/article/post-internet-art-239 3 – Status of the artist : Medieval times, beyond the sphere of liberal arts During the middle ages ‘liberal’ arts referred to more academic disciplines such as grammar, logic, geometry, music and beyond these topics artistic and craftsman practises were often influenced by religion, symbolism (moral messages) and craftsmanship (work was considered practical and intellectual) It holds practical functions, communal aspects to creativity, intertwined with religious, economic, and social life. Specifically in Bohemia (10th–12th Century) art flourished, especially within the architecture of churches. In this time period the church was the primary holder of the arts, enforcing it as a teaching tool aswell as aesthetic purposes. Eg, the art/paintings in churches worked as a teaching method of the bible. commissioned by state or churches (wealthy authority) (Art was often interrogated into functional objects, to make everyday life less mundane.) Eg, textile art, tapestries served as recording historical events, alsp to to insulate interiors Craftsmen were essential to the production of everyday and ceremonial objects. Artists in this time were generally considered craftsmen Gothic era artists began to gain more recognition, particularly in urban centers Workshops producing stained glass, sculptures, jewelry Examples of art forms in this time : Vernacular Art — folk art, carvings, textile, painted objects, for local use, religious or communal themes. pilgrim badges, mass produced items carried by pilgrims– tokens of their journeys decorative mils and fountains read: British library, medieval craftsmanship manuscript collection – articles on use and creation of items Artists in this time were generally considered craftsmen Gothic era artists began to gain more recognition, particularly in urban centers 4 — Geographies of Art: National styles in art and local traditions Refers to how artistic styles and traditions are shaped by specific places Art reflects the culture, history, and values of a nation, creating distinctive styles (e.g., Italian Renaissance, Use of clay in Mesopotamia due to the lack of stone) Within nations, smaller regions or communities develop unique artistic features based on their materials, techniques, and cultural practices Historical perspective: Antiquity- greek art: human form, balance, proportion eg: parthenon (mythology) roman art: heavily greek influenced – more towards realism (propaganda, realism eg: colosseum) (historical events, daily life, portraits of citizens) Contrasts between the two, greek focused on idealism celebrating beauty, perfection, and harmony. whilst roman on realism, propaganda purposes, glorifying emperors, military victories Greeks more often focused on human form whilst romans realistic details, including flaws and individuality Local traditions: Folk- textiles, patterns, pottery , influenced larger artistic movements Materials were heavily influenced by surroundings, marble- italy wood- nordic countries They often used art as a political tool, eg soviet czechoslocakia used socialist realism Art in time: “a world history of styles and movements - Phaidon press 5— Nature in Art- environmental site specific projects and ecology Land art is an art form which was popular in the 1960s and 70s where the works were designed to exist in particular space, responding to its surroundings or a naturally built environment. It is a very sustainable and “activistic” art form. What is special about the art form is that it can't be relocated meaning it is (cite specific) The artists building the piece has to considers, historical physical, social and environmental aspects of the work. All materials are usually sourced on location. It interacts with its locations and surroundings, connecting the artist to nature. Manual labour is a big part of the art form, making the artist physically work with their elements. Spiral Jetty: Robert smithson – famous, large spiral of rocks Eco art: Environmental issues, pro sustainability, restoration, awareness and critique Andy Goldsworthy Land art 1960-70, large scale artworks in nature, climate change, activism, community and maintaining community are all key themes temporary, natural decay, reflects on transien 7— Power of images: art of politics banned art in the cold war era and normalization in czechoslovakia Communist regime suppressed the voices of artist, heavily censored and banned their work, esp the ones which did align with state sanctioned guidelines artists had to conform to socialist realism , glorifying communism , propaganda many artists fighting back were banned, exiled, or blacklisted big underground scene of illegal art “gray zone culture” Charta 77- manifesto signed by many artists fighting the regime, demanded human rights and expression, even signed by vaclav havel human rights manifesto, for freedoms like speech, association, and religious practice even helsinki accords signed, Jiri kolar: poet visual artist, collage —-------------------------------------------------------> self publishing and apartment exhibits were big in the time for artists to express their art 8— Body physicality, and role in art history – canonization of body proportions, and ideal beauty in human body canon: rule to measure, rule of proportion in art and design It was a systematic approach it served multiple purposes across cultures and time periods, including their religious beliefs, philosophical ideals, societal structures, and artistic goals Artists believed using canonization mirrored cosmic or divine order, reflecting balance and perfection in the universe This method also proved a template for the artist, whilst it also helped train new artists by providing a clear framework, ensuring the continuity of artistic traditions egypt: regulated proportions, grid system to calculate, from feet to hairline, order and continuity , figure was divided into 18 squares eg, you can even kind of see the grid method in the pyramids Roman: Individuality and realism, vitruvian man, depicted later by leonardo da vinci “ideal” human figure was fitting into a circle and a square, cosmic harmony Roman architecture vitruvius Contempo perspective: moved away from rigid canons, more on individuality. Cubism: reimagined human body, breaking traditional ideals of proportions artist of this age often rejected or critiqued historial canons of beauty canonization reflects humans' fascination with beauty, order and divine. Not so rigid and mathematical , contempo art is more inclusive. Reading : the body in art, maria elena buzek 9— Art and utopia, social utopia expressed through art Futurism, embraced technologies, speed, industrialization for social transformation began with the thought of art being a powerful tool for social change, often by embodying or reflecting ideals of a utopian society Represents humanity's hope for a better world “ideal societies” influences social transformation idealize the possibility of a better world. Throughout history, various movements and thinkers have posited that art could not only reflect but actively shape a more ideal society. eg, plato envisioned a world where art plays a role in shaping moral virtues. He argued that art could inspire individuals to live a harmonious and ideal life. Bauhaus being a great example of this: A center for merging art, design and technology , walter gropius - designed communal housing and schools, social cohesion and equality, it aimed to improve everyday life This was easily one of the most influential art centers of the 20th century, its new teaching methods had a big influence on europe at the time, it was influenced by many other utopic art movements which also reached for harmony and social cohesion, such as art nouveau, arts and crafts movement. Although the styles vary alot the main core themes remain the same. Eg, Renaissance art often portrayed heavenly utopias with perfect order and divine balance, communal production and harmony were big key themes For example, socialist realism works as a strong example of this, it aimed to promote utopian ideals in society, art was used as a means of propaganda highlighting the joys of working life. counter points. loss of individualism, flaws, dystopian rejects universal ideas, Annie albers, studied there, worked with traditional crafts and arts (modernizing it), textile works (studied at bauhaus) reading: utopia and the ideal society - krishan kuman FINE ARTS SEGMENT : 1— Art at the turn of the century, the role of ornament: ornament : decorative elements applied to objects: enhancing visual appeal in buildings and art embellishment of surroundings and objects, It often blurred lines between function and decoration Ornamentation was heavily influenced the art nouveau era, referencing floral patterns and mythological themes. it became a hallmark of of artistic and architectural expression during this period (20th Century) characterized by its intricate designs, organic forms, and symbolic elements that aimed to harmonize beauty and functionality In prague art nouveau and ornamentation were connected by often incorporating Czech national motifs and symbols of cultural identity, it flourished in Prague at the turn of the 20th century, leaving a legacy of stunning architecture, design, and decorative arts eg, municipal building and Café Louvre Oranmentation was a way for prague to add cultural identity into their city, increasing Czech nationalism It was also a reaction to the heavy industrialization of cities to add colour and character back into the city, adding individuality and beauty. in prague it wasnt only incorporated into facades but also into other parts of the buildings such as balconies, stained glass windows, wooden interiors (carved) Ornamentation in pragues architecture is still a main tourist attracitng attracitng many to come view the intricate details of the city. adds beauty, symbolic identity, continuity, magical, medieval baroque: classical motifs, proportions and harmony- eg vitruvian scrolls postmodernism: playful eccentric digital: customizable, intricate might me “unnecessary” but also enhances human experience and tradition gothic:, spiritual symbolic art deco: geometric- chrysler building read: grammar of ornament- owen jones 2— Origins of abstract art: Abstract sculpture and photography; abstract: not realistic, focusing on shape, material, texture and space early abstraction: evokes emotion Early abstract in sculpture: Cycladic figure, simple geometry modern: 20th century artist were breaking away from realism Naum Gabo– founder of constructivism , industrial materials, geometric abstraction Jean Arp– sculpture, embraced organic flowing forms, inspired by nature Key traits: wood plastic, glass, metal and found objects viewers can engage with installation physically or emotionally In photography: not straightforward, different colours, textures, composition, not focused on certain subject eg, close up or macro– unexpected patterns Eg, wolfgang tillmans Connecting factors– Both art forms explore form and space mixed media, digital and physical interactive/immersive pieces represents creative freedom, challenging traditional norms, moth mediums are able to evolve constantly. boOK: art of sculpture- herbert read 3— Cubism, Pablo picasso Joan Miro Pablo Picasso was one of the most influential cubic artists, its known for abandoning traditional methods and focusing more on Geometric shapes, cubes, cones spheres. more focused on structure over details Picassos art often showcased how his experimental techniques could influence reality earlier works had more muted colours - focused and form and structure. influenced by: futurism and abstract expressionism 2 types: Analytical: (1908-1912) Broke down objects, in geometric components, monochromatic Synthetic: (1912-18) More use of brighter colours, collaging, incorporated found materials– clippings, newspaper,m fabric Legacy: Permanently changed language of art, influencing design to digital media emphasis abstraction and innovation Inspired movements like Futurism, Constructivism, Dada, and Surrealism, these movements took inspiration from the free flowing techniques to construct their own styles. Book- Cubism, edward fry Pablo picasso exhibit nizza 4— Interwar avant garde: bauhaus Architecture school founded in Germany, Walter Gropius Huge impact on modernism Simplicity, functionality, community, unity A place to unite arts, crafts industrial design to work cohesively together, practical Philosophy: art and technology together– a new unity rapid industrialization after WW1 bridged gap between craftsmanship and mass production minimalist, not focusing on ornamentation hands on learning – through workshops etc had few locations began in weimar last– berlin modernism, influencing everyday design book, bauhaus by hand m winger 5— art and totalitarian regimes - Unofficial and underground art Art used as a tool for propaganda and from of resistance, eg nazi germany stalinist soviet union totalitarian regime often sought to control artistic production, glorifying leaders, promote state policy, ideology eg, socialist realism , glorify the state and leaders policies and ideologies “heroic work” industrialization, collective farming, realistic, optimistic view on socialism dissident art, many artists resisted, subtle acts or outright defiance hidden happenings, hidden resistance Statues, monuments, portraits of leaders glorifying them manipulated for ideological control book: culture of stalin period – hans gunter 6— Abstract Expressionism / Jackson Pullock, Clement Greenberg Mid 20th century movement originating from new york spontaneity, emotion, large scale Non representational, emotions and subconscious -experimentation 2 approaches: action painting, gesture and process colour field painting: large areas of colour, mood, contemplation Pollock influenced surrealism , developed drip painting in late 40s Used industrial paints, unconventional tools, (sticks etc) Splatter and dripping, pouring paint – highly physical method performative, energy and movement chaos, order, nature, rejected traditional methods, Clement Greenberg: Art Critic – named abstract Expressionism as pinnacle of art advocate of formalism “art should focus on unique property” liked flatness of canvas autonomy of art: Free form politics, literary content saw pollock as embodiment of modernism “most original painter america has produced” This centered NY as central for art, no longer paris resonated with cold war ideals, creativity, freedom, individuality lead to things like pop art, minimalism, concept art read: abstract expressionism : david anfam 7— Land art Robert Smithson Earth works, 60s-70s Andy Goldsworthy Robert smithosn, one of the most influential artists of land art natural and found materials on site (rocks, soil, water fire) Site specific, can't be moved challenged paces outside of an indoor gallery Robert smithson: Traditional painter, died in plane crash ;( He combined art and science, focused on decaying process, shaping landscapes Famous works: Spiral Jetty (1970) interacting with environment and surroundings, Art and sustainability Robert smtihson, collected writings, jack flann 8— Unofficial and underground art in czechia (1969-1989) Censorship, repression of artists, unofficial happenings and exhibitions Independent art was suppressed only “propaganda” and state sanctioned art was allowed socialist realism - loyal to communist party Many artists were blacklisted, surveilled, forced to exile galleries and theaters were tightly controlled often they didn't express political themes, wanted to express abstraction, conceptual art, performance and other experimental mediums Manifesto Charter 77– signed by many artists resisting, asking for expressionism and creative freedom many who signed where persecuted, exiled or blacklisted, even future president havel signed Jiri Kolar- one of the most influential artist of the time, was sent to exile in paris. was a poet and collage artist Milan Knizak– Fluxus after velvet revolution many artists regained fame 9— postmodern art mid 20th century Challenging modernism, Skepticism toward universal truths, grand narratives, rigid artists hierarchies - diversity, pluralism, irony, mix of styles, Pluralism: Combi of various styles, no singular dominant direction Irony/parody: Humour, satire, critique of societal norms, cultural narratives Reconstruct: reinterprets existing images, symbols, styles, art history and pop culture Questions fine arts and everyday life personal truth over universal Pop art: andy warhol Installations- marina Abramovic Reflects on global exchange Rise of technology, media., used as tools Elitism was an issue, inaccessible “ overly intellectual” - but this is silly because all art can be seen like this and all art isn't for everybody Book: Anti aesthetic- essays, on postmodernism culture - hal foster 10— Contemp art, Jiri Kovanda (1970s) He was part of czechias group of artists who signed charter 77 manifesto He primary worked with poems and small performances, worked as small gestures in everyday life, body and presence worked as his medium sometimes. he wanted his performances to go unnoticed, fighting against the state his work was documented through photography Works: contact – making brief physical contact with bystanders became very famous after velvet revolution - Eg performance at tate, kissing through glass timelessness, universal, connectivity, intimacy, book: jiri kovanda, i am the object. book