ANCIENT GREEK ART

Theories & Interpretations

• Greek art was initially influenced by Ancient Near East and Egyptian works.

• Pursuit of Ideal Beauty as artist sought to represent the human body in its most perfect form, focsuing on proportion, balance, and harmony

• The Greek's mythology was very prominent in their lives and art reflected stories of heroes, gods, athletes, battles, and epics.

• Focus on Human Experience as the art is often interpreted through the lens of humanism, emphasizing the human experience, emotions, and intellect.

• Greek architecture and public scupture often reflects civic ideals and the political climate of the time.

Style Characteristics

• Idealization, harmony, and balance was at the center of artistic intent

• the human figure was considered the highest art form with artists studying human anatomy carefully

• Preferred youthful and athletic body types as it symbolized strength, vitality, and moral excellence

• Strong emphasis on symmetry and proportions, utilizing mathematical principles to acheive balance and harmony (Golden Ratio)

• Contrapposto is a hallmark pose during the Classical style

• Aesthetic can be characterized by elegant restraint and simplicity, uncluttered compositions, clear lines, and absence of excessive decoration