SOULMAKING ( Culture and the Arts) Art appreciation
What is soul making? " Soulmaking through culture and the arts is like crafting the essence of our being. It's about expressing the depth of human experience and connecting with others through shared emotions, stories, and creations. Whether it's through music, visual arts, or literature, soulmaking is the universal language that resonates with the core of our humanity, weaving a tapestry of shared understanding and connection."
4 PICS 1 WORD Look at the four pictures and think of a word that you can associate with them. Write three sentences explaining why you chose that word to describe them.
SOUL MAKING : Deriving and making meaning from Art In order for humans to make sense of language and derive meanings from words, semantics and grammatical rules are important elements to be considered. Aside from this, context and symbolisms are also considered to interpret and analyze either verbal or written works. When it comes to art, in order for people to make sense of the work, it would require understanding the visual elements where art was grounded on, especially the principles of design. It is important to note that the audience of the artwork must have a certain level of awareness to the style, form, and content of the said work. Without such understanding, it would be difficult to appreciate the visual arts in its fullness and entirety.
SOUL MAKING : Deriving and making meaning from Art In order for humans to make sense of language and derive meanings from words, semantics and grammatical rules are important elements to be considered. Aside from this, context and symbolisms are also considered to interpret and analyze either verbal or written works. When it comes to art, in order for people to make sense of the work, it would require understanding the visual elements where art was grounded on, especially the principles of design. It is important to note that the audience of the artwork must have a certain level of awareness to the style, form, and content of the said work. Without such understanding, it would be difficult to appreciate the visual arts in its fullness and entirety.
SOUL MAKING : Deriving and making meaning from Art In order for humans to make sense of language and derive meanings from words, semantics and grammatical rules are important elements to be considered. Aside from this, context and symbolisms are also considered to interpret and analyze either verbal or written works. When it comes to art, in order for people to make sense of the work, it would require understanding the visual elements where art was grounded on, especially the principles of design. It is important to note that the audience of the artwork must have a certain level of awareness to the style, form, and content of the said work. Without such understanding, it would be difficult to appreciate the visual arts in its fullness and entirety.
Style refers to the distinctive handling of elements and media associated with the work of an individual artist, a school, a movement, or a specific culture or time period ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). Throughout history, there have been developments in art styles that depict different and varied methods of expression. Artworks also have a certain form. This form is what the audience sees-a finished product put harmoniously (or not) according to the different principles of design. In essence, form is the totality of the artwork, which includes the textures, colors, and shapes utilized by the artist. The content of an artwork includes not only its form but also its subject matter and underlying meanings or themes ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). The perceiver of the artwork must take into consideration the totality of elements, underlying themes and motifs, and composition.
Style refers to the distinctive handling of elements and media associated with the work of an individual artist, a school, a movement, or a specific culture or time period ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). Throughout history, there have been developments in art styles that depict different and varied methods of expression. Artworks also have a certain form. This form is what the audience sees-a finished product put harmoniously (or not) according to the different principles of design. In essence, form is the totality of the artwork, which includes the textures, colors, and shapes utilized by the artist. The content of an artwork includes not only its form but also its subject matter and underlying meanings or themes ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). The perceiver of the artwork must take into consideration the totality of elements, underlying themes and motifs, and composition.
Style refers to the distinctive handling of elements and media associated with the work of an individual artist, a school, a movement, or a specific culture or time period ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). Throughout history, there have been developments in art styles that depict different and varied methods of expression. Artworks also have a certain form. This form is what the audience sees-a finished product put harmoniously (or not) according to the different principles of design. In essence, form is the totality of the artwork, which includes the textures, colors, and shapes utilized by the artist. The content of an artwork includes not only its form but also its subject matter and underlying meanings or themes ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). The perceiver of the artwork must take into consideration the totality of elements, underlying themes and motifs, and composition.
Style refers to the distinctive handling of elements and media associated with the work of an individual artist, a school, a movement, or a specific culture or time period ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). Throughout history, there have been developments in art styles that depict different and varied methods of expression. Artworks also have a certain form. This form is what the audience sees-a finished product put harmoniously (or not) according to the different principles of design. In essence, form is the totality of the artwork, which includes the textures, colors, and shapes utilized by the artist. The content of an artwork includes not only its form but also its subject matter and underlying meanings or themes ( Fichner-Rathus , 2013). The perceiver of the artwork must take into consideration the totality of elements, underlying themes and motifs, and composition.
TO DERIVE MEANING FROM ARTWORK, VIEWERS SHOULD CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING ASPECTS: Context: Understand the historical, cultural, and social context in which the artwork was created. This can provide insights into the artist's intentions and the influences at play. Form and Elements: Pay attention to the visual elements like color, shape, composition, and texture. These contribute to the overall aesthetics and often carry symbolic meanings. Style: Familiarize yourself with the artist's style. Different artists have unique approaches, and recognizing these can deepen your understanding of their work. Subject Matter: Consider what the artwork is depicting or representing. Sometimes the subject matter is straightforward, while at other times, it might be abstract or open to interpretation. Symbols and Metaphors: Look for symbols or metaphors within the artwork. Artists often use these to convey deeper meanings or messages.
TO DERIVE MEANING FROM ARTWORK, VIEWERS SHOULD CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING ASPECTS: 6. Technique: Appreciate the technical skills involved in creating the artwork. The choice of materials and the execution of the piece can influence its impact. 7. Title and Artist's Statements: Take note of the title and any statements made by the artist. This can provide valuable insights into the artist's intentions and the conceptual framework of the artwork. 8. Personal Response: Consider your own emotional and intellectual response to the artwork. Art is subjective, and your personal interpretation is a valid part of the meaning. 9. Art Historical References: Be aware of any art movements or historical references that the artwork might draw upon. This can provide additional layers of meaning. 10. Cultural Sensitivity: If the artwork involves elements from a specific culture, approach it with cultural sensitivity, and be mindful of potential cultural contexts and interpretations.
IMPROVISATION Improvisation is the act of creating or performing spontaneously without prior preparation or a predetermined script. In various fields such as music, theater, dance, and even everyday conversation, improvisation involves making things up on the spot. It requires quick thinking, adaptability, and creativity. Improvisation often allows for a certain level of freedom and expression, enabling individuals to respond to the immediate context and collaborate in real-time. It is a dynamic and unscripted form of expression that can lead to unexpected and unique outcomes.
IMPROVISATION Improvisation is the act of creating or performing spontaneously without prior preparation or a predetermined script. In various fields such as music, theater, dance, and even everyday conversation, improvisation involves making things up on the spot. It requires quick thinking, adaptability, and creativity. Improvisation often allows for a certain level of freedom and expression, enabling individuals to respond to the immediate context and collaborate in real-time. It is a dynamic and unscripted form of expression that can lead to unexpected and unique outcomes.
IMPROVISATION Improvisation is the act of creating or performing spontaneously without prior preparation or a predetermined script. In various fields such as music, theater, dance, and even everyday conversation, improvisation involves making things up on the spot. It requires quick thinking, adaptability, and creativity. Improvisation often allows for a certain level of freedom and expression, enabling individuals to respond to the immediate context and collaborate in real-time. It is a dynamic and unscripted form of expression that can lead to unexpected and unique outcomes.
IMPROVISATION CONTRIBUTES TO THE DISTINCTIVE QUALITY OF ARTWORK IN SEVERAL WAYS: Spontaneity: Improvisation injects an element of spontaneity into the creative process. This can result in unexpected and unique outcomes, adding a freshness and vitality to the artwork that might be challenging to achieve through meticulous planning. Expressiveness: Improvisation allows artists to express themselves freely and intuitively. It enables them to tap into their emotions, thoughts, and instincts, fostering a more direct and personal connection between the artist and the artwork. Uniqueness: Since improvisation often involves making creative decisions on the spot, the resulting artwork can possess a one-of-a-kind quality. This uniqueness arises from the artist's immediate responses to the medium, subject, or environment.
IMPROVISATION CONTRIBUTES TO THE DISTINCTIVE QUALITY OF ARTWORK IN SEVERAL WAYS: 4. Freedom: Artists engaging in improvisation experience a sense of freedom and liberation from rigid structures or predefined plans. This freedom encourages experimentation, pushing boundaries, and exploring unconventional ideas, contributing to the distinctive character of the artwork. 5. Dynamic Energy: Improvisation often introduces a dynamic energy to the artwork. Whether it's in music, dance, or visual arts, the sense of movement and energy created in the spur of the moment can imbue the work with a lively and engaging quality.
IMPROVISATION CONTRIBUTES TO THE DISTINCTIVE QUALITY OF ARTWORK IN SEVERAL WAYS: Connection to the Present Moment: Improvisation anchors the artwork in the present moment. It captures the artist's immediate responses and reflections, creating a temporal connection that can be felt by the audience, making the artwork more relatable and authentic. Open Interpretation: Improvised art may leave room for open interpretation. Viewers might find themselves engaged in deciphering the spontaneity of the creative process, leading to a more interactive and participatory experience. Collaboration and Interaction: In collaborative art forms, such as improvisational theater or music, the interaction between artists in the moment can result in a collective creation that is distinctively shaped by the dynamics of the collaboration.
Figure 1 . Marta Minunjin Performance Art
Marta Minujín is an artist who does performances, and one famous thing she did is called "The Parthenon of Books." Imagine she built a big structure like the Parthenon (an ancient Greek building) using books that were once forbidden or banned in different places. So, what she's showing is that these books were not allowed or were censored before, but now she's using them to create something important. It's like saying that ideas and knowledge should be free and not controlled. The artwork tells a story about the power of sharing thoughts and information, even if they were once restricted. It's a way of saying that everyone should have the right to express themselves and have access to different perspectives.
Appropriation, in a general sense, refers to the act of taking or borrowing elements, ideas, or concepts from one context and using them in another. It is often used in various fields, including art, culture, and literature. Here are a few examples to help illustrate the concept: APPROPRIATION
Artists may appropriate art for various reasons, and their motivations can be complex. Reinterpretation and Commentary: Artists may appropriate existing artworks to reinterpret them or provide commentary on the original. This can be a way of engaging in a dialogue with art history, offering new perspectives, or challenging established norms. Homage and Tribute: Appropriation can be a form of homage or tribute to a particular artist, style, or movement. By incorporating elements from the past, artists may express admiration and acknowledge the influence of certain works on their own practice. Cultural Exploration: Artists might appropriate art from different cultures as a means of exploring and appreciating diverse artistic traditions. This can be done with a genuine desire to learn and celebrate cultural richness.
Artists may appropriate art for various reasons, and their motivations can be complex. Experimentation and Innovation: Appropriation allows artists to experiment with different styles, techniques, and concepts. By borrowing elements from existing works, artists can explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of artistic expression. Political or Social Commentary: Some artists use appropriation as a tool for political or social commentary. By appropriating familiar images or symbols, they can convey powerful messages, critique societal norms, or address contemporary issues. Irony and Subversion: Appropriation can be employed for ironic or subversive purposes. Artists may use familiar images in unexpected or unconventional ways to challenge expectations, question authority, or provoke thought.
Different ways and areas that we can use Appropriation APPROPRIATION Art: An artist might take a famous painting, like the Mona Lisa, and incorporate elements of it into their own artwork. They could do this to comment on the original or to create a new perspective. Example: An artist uses the iconic image of the Mona Lisa but replaces her face with a modern symbol, like a smartphone, to comment on the influence of technology on contemporary life.
Appropriation in Art ( DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY) "Appropriation in art is the use of pre-existing objects or images with little or no transformation applied to them". This Andy Warhol appropriation counts due to the fact that very little alterations were made besides the color.
Different ways and areas that we can use Appropriation APPROPRIATION Culture: Imagine someone from one culture adopting symbols or practices from another culture without understanding their deep meaning. This is cultural appropriation. Example: Wearing a traditional Native American headdress as a fashion accessory without understanding its spiritual significance or cultural context.
Different ways and areas that we can use Appropriation APPROPRIATION Literature: An author might borrow characters or themes from a classic novel to create a new story, either as a tribute or to offer a fresh take. Example: Writing a modern version of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" set in a high school, reimagining the classic tale in a different context.
Different ways and areas that we can use Appropriation APPROPRIATION Music: Musicians often use samples from existing songs to create new tracks, blending different sounds to produce something unique. Example: Taking a guitar riff from an old blues song and incorporating it into a hip-hop track, creating a fusion of genres.
Different ways and areas that we can use Appropriation APPROPRIATION Fashion: Designers sometimes draw inspiration from traditional clothing or patterns from various cultures, but it can be problematic if not done respectfully. Example: Using a pattern inspired by a traditional African textile in a fashion collection without acknowledging the cultural roots.
Forgery: Forgery typically involves creating or altering objects, documents, or art with the intent to deceive. Two common forms of forgery are: DOCUMENT FORGERY: Counterfeiting Money: Creating fake currency with the intent to pass it off as genuine legal tender. Forging Signatures: Imitating someone's signature on a document to falsely represent their authorization or consent. Altering Documents: Changing the content or details of a document, such as contracts, wills, or certificates, to mislead others. ART FORGERY: Copying Artworks: Creating replicas of existing artworks with the intent to sell them as original pieces by a renowned artist. Creating Fake Artifacts: Crafting objects, sculptures, or artifacts in a style that mimics a particular historical period or artist, intending to deceive buyers or collectors. False Attributions: Falsely attributing an artwork to a famous artist to increase its value and marketability.
Let’s wrap it up!!!! When an artist creates something, there is a desire for him or her to elicit a certain kind of response from his audience. To a certain extent, the artist is considered as the first and primary audience of the work. There is this notion that art should be perceived as something that would engage and enrich the experience of the audience as the artist tries to piece together all the elements grounded on design rules. However, there have been art movements throughout history that tried to break away from the norms of visual arts. Improvisations have led artists to find other medium and avenues to showcase their creative expression. The certain level of freedom and creativity experienced in art can also lead to appropriations. When it comes to art appropriation, there seems to be a debate whether or not something is just an appropriation of an existing work or just plain forgery.