Summary of Reading in 40 words:
It takes a vivid imagination and an open mind to understand abstract art. Abstract art does not always represent identifiable themes, and its message is conveyed through shapes, colors, and patterns. Since this kind of art allows individual interpretation, every viewer's experience is different. It's best to view abstract art in person in order to fully appreciate it as this enables us to observe specifics such as the piece's overall effect, texture, and brushstrokes.
Key Words: (20)
open mind, imagination, shapes, colors, patterns, vibrant painting, texture, inventiveness, representational art , interpretation, no right or wrong, symphony, sensations
Week 1
Artist Reference: Willem de Kooning (1904 - 1997)
Source: Singulart
Title of Work: Excavation
Year: 1950
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 208.0 × 254.6 cm
Location: The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
SEE
(Describe what you see)
THINK
(Analyse & Interpret)
WONDER
(Develop Curiosity)
What do you see?
A dynamic painting that features merging lines, shapes and colors creating the feeling of movement. Painting is applied in layers with energetic brush strokes which result in a textured surface.
What are the subjects in the Artwork?
figures and objects which fight in a battle
What are the Elements of Art used in the Artwork?
texture, shape, colors, lines
What are some subjects in the foreground, middleground and background of the Artwork?
figures and objects
How are the subject matters arranged?
cluster of forms with no obvious central focus.
Why did you think the artist arranged the subjects in this manner?
to show pandemonium and chaos.
What do you think the Artist is trying to communicate in the artwork? How does the artwork make you feel?
De Kooning uses of strong colors and expressive brushstrokes create a visual language that express the power of human experience.
How do you think the elements of art were used to convey the Artist's intentions?
The chaotic shapes and texture allow the audience to immerse into a visual labyrinth, thus evoking an emotional reaction.
How was principles of design used to communicate and idea/ emotion?
Instead of painting real things, he used shapes and colors to express his feelings.
Why do you think the Artist emphasised certain element in the work?
Absence of a definite subject enables alternative readings, asking viewers to fall back upon their feelings and life experiences.
What are you curious about the Artwork?
Why are certain colors emphasized, like yellow
What are you wonder about the Artist's thought processes?
is there a specific reason why he chose to paint a battle
What is interesting to you about this Artwork? And why?
there is not much presence of forground, background or middleground, and everything is bundled up randomly
Are there any areas such as the title, style, or medium of the artwork that you are unsure and would like to know more?
why did he choose to use oil paint? why not watercolor or a different medium like oil pastel?
What do you like to keep, destroy or replace? Why?
i would keep the energetic brushstrokes as they provide an interesting texture and look to the painting.
Week 2: Understanding Abstract Art
Sketches - Circles and Bubbles, Pyramids, Organic Folds
circles + bubbles
Elements of Art: space, form, tonal value
Principle of Art: harmony
Intention: To create movement
triangles + pyramids
Elements of Art: tonal value, line, shape
Principle of Art: contrast
Intention: To create 3D illusion
curves
Elements of Art: texture, space, shape
Principle of Art: balance
Intention: To emphasise Visual Weight
Week 3-5 : Wire Sculpting Units
The Cuboid, Pyramid and Perfect Sphere
open cube sculpture
My Challenges: (30 words)
My Strategies to overcome them: (30 words)