Subject and Content of Art PDF

Subject and Content of Art Chapter II The Subject of Art The subject of art is the matter to be described or to be portrayed by the artist. The subject of art is varied. This may refer to any person, object, scene, or event. Fictional Non-fiction Two Kinds o...

Subject and Content of Art Chapter II The Subject of Art The subject of art is the matter to be described or to be portrayed by the artist. The subject of art is varied. This may refer to any person, object, scene, or event. Fictional Non-fiction Two Kinds of Art as to Subject  Representational or Objective Art Still Life Portrait Landscapes Mythology Nonrepresentational or Nonobjective Art Action Painting Color–Field Painting  Sources of the Subject of Art Nature History Mythology Religion Sacred Oriental Texts  The Content of Art The content of art is the meaning, message, and/or feeling imparted by a work of art. Content is inextricably linked with form, which refers to the pictorial aspects of art. It is the mass of ideas associated with each artwork and communicated through the following: 1. The art’s imagery 2. The symbolic meaning 3. Its surroundings where it is used/displayed 4. The customs, beliefs, and values of the culture that uses it 5. Writings that help explain the work. The three levels of meaning in art Factual Conventional Subjective Johannes Vermeer's The Girl with a Pearl Earring is one of the most iconic paintings in art history. Because of its enigmatic subject and timeless appeal, it is often called the "Mona Lisa of the North." Factual Meaning This level concerns the observable, objective details of the painting. Conventional Meaning This level explores the cultural, symbolic, or historical interpretations of the painting. Subjective Meaning This level involves personal or emotional interpretations of the painting, which vary from viewer to viewer. Keeping Art It involves preserving and maintaining artworks beyond their immediate usefulness, driven by various considerations. For a country or society, art can symbolize national identity, cultural heritage, or historical significance, often becoming a treasured possession that transcends practical function. Spolarium by Juan Lun Public and private institutions, like museums and galleries, are also defined for keeping art and issues around preserving or restoring it. National Pride and Glory Nations keep art because it is good for the economy and business. Major archeological, religious, or architectural sites stimulate the entire economy, attract tourists, and generate local jobs. Museums and Private Collections In most countries, museums are the repositories of much of the art and make it available for public viewing through permanent or temporary exhibitions. They do not sell the arts but essentially hold them in public trust and engage in varying levels of education and conservation practices. Museums and Private Collections Private collections are older than museums. Since the earliest times, rulers, nobles, and priests have collected art and kept them in palaces or temples for aesthetic pleasure, personal, or ritual use. Borghese Collection Temple of Leah Preservation and Restoration Because art is valuable, enormous human effort and financial resources are devoted to preserving art from the ravages of time, the environment, industrial by-products, and other possible damages. Painting Restoration Painting restoration refers to repairing, preserving, and maintaining artworks, especially paintings, to prevent further damage and to return them as closely as possible to their original condition. This practice combines art, science, and craftsmanship to ensure that paintings endure for future generations while respecting the artist's intent. Most Common Causes of Condition Issues How Restoration of a Painting Works  Assessment Experts evaluate the painting’s condition, identifying damage and underlying issues.  Cleaning Removal of surface dirt, grime, and old varnishes to reveal original colors.  Repair Fixing structural damage like tears, cracks, or weakened supports.  Repainting Inpainting damaged or missing sections with carefully matched pigments to blend seamlessly.  Varnishing Application of protective coatings to safeguard the painting against future damage.