Rembrandt van Rijn 

Rembrandt in a Cap, Laughing: Bust1630

Physical Dimensions:

w4.13 x h4.93 cm

Provenance:

Dallas Museum of Art, gift of Calvin J. Holmes

Type:

Works on Paper - Prints

Self-Portrait in a Cap, Open-Mouthed1630

Rembrandt van Rijn

Dutch, 1606-1669
Etching; only state
plate: 2 x 1-3/4 in. (5.1 x 4.4 cm); sheet: 2-1/16 x 1-13/16 in. (5.2 x 4.6 cm)

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669) Self-portrait wearing a soft cap: full face, head only, 1634, Etching

1. Why did you select the inspiration pieces? I selected these Rembrandt sketched, because I really enjoyed the simplicity of them. I like how Rebrandt uses cross hatching to shade the self-portarits

2. Why did you select the media to create your self-portrait?
I used pencil and charcoal to create my portrait, because I am most comfortable with those materials. I wanted to be more confident in my self-portrait, so I decided to be on the safer side, and go with what I know. 

3. What challenges did you face in creating your self-portrait and how did you overcome them?The biggest problem I had with drawing my self portrait was drawing the lips and nose: this is always the hardest part for me to illustrate. I overcame both of these things, by taking a step back and looking at the lighting and shading, then using the pencil I gently outlined them
4. How does this piece represent you? I believe this piece represents me in a happy moment. Being optimistic is very much a salient feature; therefore, I tried to convey it in my portrait.

5. What elements and principles of art did you apply in this work? In this piece I used the element of light to utilize hatching and cross hatching.  I also used contour and outline to define the shapes and distances. This piece also required balance and emphasis and subordination to complete
6. Did you enjoy working on this project? I did enjoy working on this piece, and I plan on trying a second self-portrait after finals. 

7. What do you think of your final artwork? I like my final piece. I definitely need to practice more of the techniques in shading ( Emphasis, subordination) to make it really come to life, but given my lack of experience, I am quite please with the final result.

1. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

2. Do the videos relate to the creation of your Art Exhibition project? If yes, explain how. If no, explain why not.

3. What is your opinion of the films? Do they add depth to understanding of the art concepts you practiced while creating your curation project?

Module 12

1. Explain why you selected each of the TWO videos you choose from the selection listed above. The two films that I selected were “ The Power of Art:Rothko” and “ Andy Warhol: Images of an Image.” The reason I selected the Rothko film was because I was really intrigued from what I read about him in the textbook. I chose to watch the Warhol film, because I knew about his history with The Velvet Underground, and I wanted to learn more about him.

2. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

The Rothko video described the tortured soul that was Rothko. He spent decades trying to perfect a form of art which would convey the deepest of human emotion. Rothko wanted to give his paintings the same emotional force as the old masters (Rembrandt, and Turner). Rothko is considered one of the greatest American artists of all time.

The Andy Warhol was the complete opposite of Rothko’s. Rothko despised the idea of making art for decorative purposes for the wealthy. This is why his four seasons painting was meant to convey uncomfortable feelings, because he wanted to ruin the appetite of the patrons. Warhol was the complete opposite of Rothko. Warhol’s painting to easy to create, because they were mostly done on silk screen. Warhol wanted to produce products more than art.

2. How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

The videos relate to the text because they illustrate the transition from modernism to post modernism. The text helps to put the context of these artists into the history of art and its culture. Chapter 23 helped to describe how art has changed, since Warhol and Rothko’s contributions.

3. What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

I really enjoyed Rothko’s film. I appreciate the level of consideration and emotion he put into his paintings; however, I did not like Warhol’s video much. I found Warhol to be too much of a commercial artists, concerned more with making money  than trying to push the boundries of art.

Art Gallery Visit #2

Step 1: The Exhibition

Questions about the exhibit:
1. What is the title of the exhibit?

The title of the art exhibit I visited is “Manet, Monet and the Impressionists” at the National Gallery.

2. What is the theme of the exhibition?

The theme of this particular is exhibit is impressionism.

Step 2: The Gallery

Questions about the physical space:
1. What type of lighting is used?

In Room 43 at The National Gallery, there are two sources of lighting. First, there are skylights; however, there are steel plates blocking direct sunlight from entering the room. The Second source of light is through directed LED lighting that is attached to a set of rails, so the lights can be moved.

2. What colors are used on the walls?

              The walls are painted a deep, and natural dark purple. The walls are accented by white decorative molding at the top, and a dark granite baseboard.

3. What materials are used in the interior architecture of the space?

The floors in Room 43 are made out of wood of different shades and patterns. The center and perimeter patterns of the floor have the boards lined up, one after another, and this is accented by diamond wood patterns in the floor. The bottom baseboards and entryway molding are made of dark granite. Along the top base boarding there is decorative white molding, which continues into the white, decorative vaulted ceilings.

4. How is the movement of the viewer through the gallery space?

The room, which is about 30x30 has the viewer walking around the square perimeter of the room. In the center of the room, there are two wood benches.

Step 3: The Artwork

Questions about the artwork:
1. How are the artworks organized? As you enter the room and go left, there is a collection of over 12 Monet pieces on two walls. The remaining two walls are covered by a variation of Monet, Manet, Renoir, and Sisley.
2. How are the artwork’s similar? The subjects of the paintings can be categorized into two styles. As you enter the room, and go left, all of the paintings of landscapes. The other half of the room is portraits.

3. How are the artworks different? Apart from the difference of subject matter, one painting by  Ignace-Henri-Théodore Fantin-Latour  “ Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Edwards”  is not an impressionist painting, rather it is surrealist.
4. How are the artworks framed? All of the artworks in Room 43 are framed in a gold painted, decorative wooden frame; however, the intricacies vary from each painting.

5. How are the artworks identified and labeled?

Each artwork is identified and labeled with a small white plaque that gives a description of the artist, year, and label of each work.

6. What is the proximity of the artwork to each other?

Each piece is located within 1-2 feet of the other paintings. Some of the smaller paintings have other artworks above them within a few inches.

Step 4: Art Criticism Exercise

Artist: Claude Monet

Title of work: – Snow Scene at Argenteuil

Media: Oil on Canvas

Date:1875

Size: 28x36 in

Source of picture (URL) http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/snow-scene-at-argenteuil-claude-monet.jpg

What I enjoyed about this painting is the subtle contrasts in color. The Painting, which is mostly constructed of blues and greys, also, contains some dark browns, reds, and near black accents.  In this painting, there is a winter scene that contains the presence of people in it. To the sides of the painting there are trees and shrubs, and the background consists of buildings. The first element I noticed in this painting was the use of direction and movement. The fence to the left, and the muddied snow trail serves as a directional line, which guides the viewers eyes to the people near the end of the trail. The second element I noticed was the use of implied shape to outline the trees. Monet uses grey shapes contrasted with browns and reds to outline the trunks and branches of the trees. The first principle I noticed was the use of emphasis and subordination. Monet subordinates much of the landscape in this painting by filling it with grey and little detail; however, the people and everything that is man-made is given much richer and darker colors. I believe Monet did this to symbolize the the contrast between people and nature. The subjects in the photo, and the trails left behind them are the first things I noticed about this painting; therefore, I believe Monet was trying to illustrate the contrasts and effects of people on nature.

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Artist: Claude Monet

Title of work: – Gare Saint Lazare

Media: Oil on Canvas

Date:1877

Size: 60.3 x 80.2 cm

Source of picture (URL): http://www.artic.edu/aic/collections/artwork/16571

What I really enjoy about this painting is the use of blues in the shading; Also, the way in which Monet develops the smoke coming from the train. Rather than outlining the smoke, Monet distorts the image where smoke is present. In this painting, there are people waiting to board a train at a station. The station is covered with a glass ceiling, and inside the station there is a prominent light post; in addition, to other trains and passengers. The element I noticed in this painting was the use of direction and movement. It’s clear the trains are moving into the station, and the railroad tracks direct the viewers’ eye into the background of the painting.  Another prominent element is the use of analogous color harmonies.  Monet used most blues, greens, and yellows in the painting. I also really like the asymmetrical balance of the painting. The vaulted ceiling of the station almost make the painting symmetrical; however, the content within the station offers a stark contrast. This artwork reminds me of many paintings during the industrial era. Train stations represented a place for many different types of people to meet. I think Monet chose this piece, because industrialization changed many societies, and how people interacted.

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Artist: Claude Monet

Title of work: – Bathers at La Grenouillère

Media: Oil on Canvas

Date:1869

Size: 73x92 cm

Source of picture (URL) http://www.oil-painting-techniques.com/pics/monet2.jpg

What I enjoyed about this painting is how different the color scheme is from his previous works. Many of Monet’s artwork has prominent blues; however, in this painting, green is the most prevalent color used. In this painting, there are canoes docked in the bottom left corner. In the top left corner, it is covered in foliage and people walking across a dock. The right side of the picture is more reminiscent of Monet’s work with the addition of blues; however, it doesn’t capture the typical idea of Monet that I’m used to seeing. The first element that I noticed in the painting was the use of movement and direction in the center of the painting. The Dock, which has many people walking across it, serves as a guide to experience this particular artwork. Secondly, I noticed the use of complementary color harmonies in the shading of the water, which is white and black. I believe Monet uses a perfect balance of Unity and Variety in this painting, as the left half of the painting is united in all of the greens ( analogous color harmonies); and the right half of the image uses more complementary color harmonies: this brings balance to the painting.  I believe painting symbolizes the relationship of humans and nature. The color schemes used in all of the manmade subjects are in perfect harmony with nature. I believe Monet was trying to describe how harmonious the relationship between these two can be.

Step 5: Document Your Visit

https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/visiting/virtualtour/#/room-43/

4. Answer this question:What did you think of visiting the Gallery and purposefully looking at the exhibition from a different perspective - the physical space, the architecture, theme, etc.?

Looking at the art from a different perspective in a different setting really helped me understand the context and historical significance of these artworks. By arranging these artworks in a exhibit, it becomes easier to understand how artists affect and influence other artists. The physical space also played a large role in changing my perception of these artworks. Everything from the decor to the framing helps to recreate an atmosphere which helps to emphasis the importance and role of  understanding art.

Chapter 21

1. Explain why you selected each of the TWO videos you choose from the selection listed above.

The reason I selected the cubism video is because I had previously taken an interest in cubism, and I was curious s to what the video would exemplify.  The second video that I chose was the Dada video, because I had never heard of it before, although, while watching it I had recognized the style of Dada.

2. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In the Cubism video, Juan Gris described cubism as deconstructing images which starts as shapes and ends with a situation we recognize from our own experience.  I learned about the way in which Cubism plays with the viewers perception of the image. Cubism artists may use multiple perspectives of the same object to emphasis certain features of that object. This same technique is used in Hannah Hoch’s “ New York” collage, which isn’t Cubism, rather it is classified under Dada. Artist, Kurt Schwitters’ is considered one of the founders of Dada. He used everyday objects in his art, but isn’t concerned so much with the object, as he is with “ the music the light plays on them.”

2. How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

The readings in the text give the concepts of cubism and Dada a context. After World War 1, concerns over war and economic/ social equality became the center of the arts. Through Art, many of the discussions regarding these issues were brought to the mainstream: allowing for the progression of many societies. The text also describes the pretext to the evolution of surrealism, cubism, and dada. The Avant-Garde movement facilitated a change in perspective for many artists around the world: allowing for new, bold ideas in the art culture.  George Grosz exemplifies this in his “untitled” painting of Germany, where everything is lacking the fundamental characteristics that make human life worth living. 

 In my mask, I wanted to attain symmetrical balance, but I also wanted to use hatching to try and give the head dress a feeling of depth and a sense of variety. I also wanted to emphasis its three dimensional space, so I decided to make the the nose, by folding the paper material i used for the mask.  Also, I decided to subordiante the hair and side burns for two reasons: First, because I wanted to emphasis the head dress, but also, because I wanted to emphasis the contour lines of the facial structure to resemble a skull. I really enjoyed making this mask, and I achieved the goal I set out to reach. In making this mask, I wanted to depict something that resembled an 80's punk theme, but also, a native american theme.

The reason I selected this Inuit Shaman mask is because I really liked asymmetrical balance of the mask. Shamans in Inuit culture were used to rid of evil spirits and bring prosperous conditions, and the mask seems to illustrate both of those sides.

What I really enjoy about this native american mask is how hatching is used to form the depth in shading. Also, I like  the textural contrast between the smooth lines on the mask and the roughness of the hair.  There's also an emphasis placed on the eyes, as they are the only part that isnt shaded,

I was really attracted to this mask of a buddha, because the facial expression represents one of a buddha deep in thought.  There is an emphasis on the contour of his brow and on his eyes to convey the depth of his thought. I also enjoyed the symmetry of this mask.

Video response

1.    Explain why you selected each of the TWO videos you choose from the selection listed above.

I selected both of these videos, because I’ve always had an interest in eastern religion/ spirituality. Many of the events I attend are based on Buddhist or Hindu principle’s; especially , in festival culture.

2.    For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In Hinduism I learned about the similarities between Hinduism and Buddhism. Both religions/ philosophies believe in reincarnation, as a form of punishment. Once the person has led a pure life, then they achieve Nirvana, and are not reborn. Also, both religions practiced asceticism; which is the starvation of all things, in effort for better understanding.  

3.    How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

These videos exemplified how attached to nature Buddhism and Hinduism are. Both religions, exemplify the need for mindfulness. In fact, even Jainism uses the same meditative positions in its art. Even though, Hinduism utilized a caste system, it placed equal values on all lives, because everyone is seeking the same thing, Brahma.

4.    What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

 I really enjoyed seeing how Buddhism and Hinduism beliefs translated in their culture and artwork. In both of these religions, ascetic’s can be seen trying to find liberation. I also found a correlation between buddist priniciples in the technique known as Haboku. Haboku is an arduous process where the artists splashes ink on paper, which usually results in a mess on the paper; however, this process is almost illusive, as is finding liberation.

4/2

1.    What was it like using your hand as subject matter for a drawing?

I found it incredibly difficult to use an object that isn’t stationary as a subject. I found that the positioning of my hand kept changing, and also, that the shading kept changing, if I moved my hand at different angles. I think drawing or painting a living object for the subject requires much more experience in shading concepts.

2.    What media did you select - pencil or charcoal? Why?

I chose to use charcoal as a media, because I wanted it to be permanent. I find charcoal is much harder to erase; therefore, making it much more honest and definite. That being said, if I were to recreate this drawing, then I would use pencil first, then apply charcoal to create more contrast.

3.    How did it feel to create a drawing with your non-dominant hand?

I had a difficult time using my non-dominant hand to draw. I found that the intricacies in drawing abilities were non-existent. Tasks such as  shading, and outlining became very difficult. I was expecting my experience in drawing to transfer; regardless of what hand I used, but I was wrong.

4.    Compare and contrast your final drawings. Do you think they are successful studies?

The right hand feels more controlled. The outline is more accurate, and the shading is more uniform; however, the left hand is much shakier and less accurate in scale. I find the contrast in shading the left hand is much more inconsistent, where the right hand is more defined.

5.    Would you consider using your non-dominant hand to create artwork in the future?

I enjoyed using my right hand to draw. It almost gives everything a Basquiat feel. I would consider using my hand again. In music, I often play instruments differently to find different tones and structures, and I think the same applies in art. Also, it was enjoyable to be challenged in such a simple task.

Chapter 14-15 questions

1.    Explain why you selected the video you choose from the selection listed above.

The reason I chose “The Greek Awakening: Art from the 5th Century BC” was because the title insinuates a transition in Greek culture.  While the other titles do describe parts of Greek culture, the word “ awakening” made me think of Buddhism and so I decided to watch that specific video.

2.    For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In the Awakening video, I learned that around the 5^th century B.C. that greeks shifted their focus from Gods being the center of the universe, to the individual. Around this time, Greeks started positing questions about purpose, existence, mathematics, and other areas of philosophy. Also, I learned about the different uses for the Parthenon, for example: It was used as a mosque, and a temple, before scholars would congregate.

In “More Human than Human” I learned about different cultures and their and values: pertaining to the representation of human figures in art. Also, I learned about the seagull research done at Oxford: which is theorized to describe why historic cultures accentuated certain salient features of the human body in art.

3.    How do the videos relate to the readings in the text? The videos relate to the text, because they all describe the relationship between culture, art, and architecture.  There is a correlation between the ways in which Egyptians and Greeks valued mathematics; resulting in art and architecture that placed a heavy emphasis on mathematics. The prehistoric figure, found in Vienna also is representative of these correlations. as heavier women were more capable of successfully carrying children in those times, the idea of female beauty conveyed in art, indicates that certain salient features were sought after to ensure the existence of their tribes.

4.    What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

I really enjoyed both films, because they illustrated how our perceptions of beauty are influenced by culture, but also, how both of those factors influence art and architecture. The films also depicted how Greeks used mathematics to compensate for visual effect using a slight bulge “entasis”.  I also learned about how Christians and Greeks used architecture to bring people together. In Christianity, multi-purpose halls “Basilica’s” were designed for congregational worship. In Greece, The Parthenon was used a place of central worship, but also, for scholars to philosophize.  

Module 7

1. In “Last Call for Planet Earth,” I learned about different concepts in sustainability: which are focused on designing and constructing infrastructure in a way that promotes and utilizes sustainable environmental resources and conditions. These methods can be used for heating, cooling, and lighting.

In “Frank Gehry: Architecture as Art” I learned about designing for aesthetics; instead, of for sustainability. Architect, Frank Gehry has been an influential figure in contemporary architecture. His designs focus on utilizing multiple materials that redefine how we think about modern architecture: advances in computer drafting have allowed for Gehry to focus more on developing compelling structures.

2.    Both of the videos that I watched challenge many of the basic assumptions and ideas we have about traditional architecture. Both videos also illustrate how divergent ideas can solve many of the problems we face with energy, and our climate. The textbook addresses much of the history in architecture, but also, it focuses on the future of architecture, including: new materials, and technologies.  

3.    I really enjoyed both of the films. “Last Call for Planet Earth” illustrated the different concepts and materials that can address issues of sustainability and enrgy consumption: while, “Frank Gehry’s” documentary discussed the influence of art and technology in architecture. Both of these films exemplified how technology and art can assist in developing and modifying structures that will help reduce our consumption of natural materials and other resources.

4.    I chose to watch both videos, because I am passionate about environmentalism and art. I found both videos to be very informative and intriguing, and am interested in learning more about technological advances in architecture; pertaining to sustainability.

Reviewing Peer Responses

1.

http://ashleys-art200.blogspot.com/ 

http://abstractmuse.blogspot.com/

2. When looking at project #1, I did notice multiple elements and priniciples; however, I think it would have to be completely intentional for a photographer to limit the amounts of these elements.

3.None of the artists that I chose were in my peers collection, but this was done intentionally. I wanted to see why different art attracted my peers attention, and through that, I developed a better understanding of the individual.

4. Charles E Burchfield “Winter, East Liverpool 1927,” Oil on Canvas, really peaked my interest, but in an indifferent way. The art itself seems to be a caricature, and almost a cartoonish representation of that time and place: which leaves to question, what is the distinction between fine art and television? I’m not sure if I love this piece or not, but I keep finding myself staring it at.

5. What I found to be really fascinating in reviewing both projects by two individuals was the level of knowledge I have acquired about both of my peers. Ashley’s art: in both projects, contained some form of nature in it. Abstract Muse’s art: was almost always abstract, and these qualities permeated through her photography. It’s really interesting to see what motivates and inspires others artists to create.

6. I found both comments to be very insightful: as they supported and critiqued my style. I think constructive critism is imperative: as long as it doesn’t render one useless. Gaining the perceptions of others has helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses.

Module 6

1.    For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

In the sculpting video, I learned how sculptors create molds, by using metal, silicone, and platers. First, sculptors place metal seams into the artwork: to divide the silicone mold into as many parts as needed. Next, the artist covers the clay figure in silicone to protect it from damage: when creating a negative print. Last, the artist covers the silicone in plaster, and when its dried the artist drills holes into the cast, which will then be screwed together, when casting the plaster.

          In the Glass and Ceramics video, I learned the different methods and techniques artists use to shape glass. Using Silica Sand and various fluxes, such as: Limestone, Pot Ash, or Oyster Shells, the glass maker heats these components. Once properly heated, the glass maker gathers a lump of the molten glass on their rod. Next, the maker inflates the molten glass, by blowing into the rod: which will then be shaped, using various tools of wood, steel, or wet newspapers. When completed, the maker will reheat the formation, to make it more structurally reliable.

2.    How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

 One recurring theme between many of the materials described in Chapter 11-12 and the videos are the unique characteristics with each medium. There is an emphasis placed on each material, how it relates to the earth, and the imperfections with each medium. It is then the artist’s job to exploit the imperfections within that medium to enhance their vision.

3.    What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the topics: Sculpture, Installation, and Craft?

I really enjoyed both of the films, and I found them to be very informative. The Sculpting video demonstrated how laborious sculpting in stone can be: it is a very meticulous form, which requires lots of patience, and effort.  Regarding installation: the use of glass in architecture demonstrates its ability to form and shape our perceptions of our environment: acoustically, aesthetically, and thermally. The videos also exemplified each person’s skill and their artist relevance: watching how sculptor’s create their work, demonstrated the amount of diligence, labor, and patience required to perfect their style within that medium: described in the textbook as their “craft.” 

Logo

1.    Discuss what you thought about creating your logo.

I really enjoyed creating my logo: it allowed me to focus on the important objects within my life, and use those objects in trying to describe myself. I knew from the beginning that my design would involve musical instruments, but I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to utilize them.

2.    Describe the process: creative thinking skills and ideas you used in the logo creation.

I started my logo design with the idea that I would use a guitar and microphone crossing: to ensure that the logo would be balanced; however, I knew that I wanted to include more elements, but I wasn’t positive on how. In my second design I decided to maybe place a music staff wrapping around these two objects, but I felt it was redundant. When I realized that I should use the staff as a banner for my initials, the rest just fell into place. I placed a flaming heart behind these two objects, and felt that the logo was sufficiently balanced.

3.    What was the most important discovery you made in the creation of your logo?

The most important discovery I made in creating my logo was the interaction between different utensils. I originally designed the complete logo in charcoal pencils, but decided to use sharpies to accentuate certain objects, but also, to add more contrast. The use of sharpie over the heart was very subtle, due to the consistency of the charcoal underneath it,, but where the charcoal was used at a minimum(side of guitar), it allowed me to shade with more precision, and less bleed.

4.    What is the most important information you learned from watching the videos, powerpoint, and reading material  for this project? What is your opinion of the videos?

I found the information in the research material to be very helpful in designing my logo. The most important things I learned through the material was the importance of picking a logo that translates well across several mediums, and is scalable. Also, it is important to know your demographic, and whether the product logo will translate well across cultural lines.  In the Marmite video: as well as the Graphic Design video, I learned a lot and found the informational to be relevant and playful: I really enjoyed both of them.

Questions

Janet Fish (A

  A.    The Oil on Canvas scenery in Gustave Courbet’s “ La Source la Loue” intrigued me: To me, it illustrates the allure of the unknown. The ripples in the water make the viewer question, what is on the other side of this painting?  As the water appears to be flowing away from the darkness. Also, what is the light source illuminating the walls? The ominous entry into the cave leaves me asking many questions, as to whether the artist is trying to convey the power of the unknown, or something else. Erin Shirreff’s “drop ( no 14)” was the second thing that really intrigued me. This piece truly demonstrated the how versatile and nuianced different types of steel could appear. Using hot-rolled, cold-rolled and Cor-ten Steel, Shirreff contrasts these subtle differences through color and placement. The largest piece of steel on the right appears to have been cold and hot rolled in different sections: which changes the color and reflective quality. In addition, each piece of steel appears to have small striations from the rolling process: which feels purposefully arranged, so that the pieces can further contrast which each other. The reason this piece intrigues me is because it demonstrates the versatility, and nuisances of the medium: it feels very architectural and intentional in the way everything is arranged.

.     B.  To me, the two pieces that I felt a connection with both had one thing in common: music. Georges Braque, “Still Life on a Mantelpiece” demonstrates the relationship between music and life.  Braque achieves this by blurring the lines between the objects and background.  The music sheets in this painting, transform into the background; and the guitar neck breaks into obscure shapes, and is outlined with the same textured black as the background. Braque creates so many layers, that is becomes harder to discern what is the object, and what is the background. I believe this resonates with me, because it demonstrates how engrained music is in society.  My favorite piece of work, at the Albright-Knox was William Harnett;s “Music and Literature.” In my opinion, this Oil on Canvas piece demonstrates the frustration of writing music. The first thing I noticed was how the books were book-marked and carelessly piled: as though the subject who placed them was scattering to find something of meaning within the books. Harnett also conveys that the subject spent much time at this desk, because the candle has burned down to the bottom. The other thing that I noticed was the condition of the music sheet: it appears as if the writer has been fighting with this specific piece. All the other sheets are properly rolled, but one sheet  appears to be tattered, torn, folded, and stained: This illustrates that the subject has had a particular hard time with this sheet.

C.      Upon viewing Paul Gaugin’s “Le Christ jaune,” I became very curious about this oil on canvas painting. The scenery depicted in this painting leaves me questioning the artists intention. Was it to demonstrate this prominence of Christianity in Europe? Also, what is the significance of these colors typical to Fall? While I appreciated the color profile of this painting, I just don’t understand the significance of it.  The oil on canvas painting, by Janet Fish, “After Leslie Left,” also left me puzzled to the intention of this piece. The title insinuates that maybe a woman or cleaner had left, and this is the only trace of her existence left, but is the artist trying to convey her sadness for the things Leslie represented, or is she stating something else? Also, what significance does the bowl hold? It’s obvious that Leslie performed the roles of a wife/lover, or cleaner, but the presence of the bowl with bananas is maybe a reference to something that only the artist can divulge. 

, born 1938). After Leslie Left, 1983–84. Oil on canvas