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Understanding Art: Subject and Content

Chapter 2 discusses two types of art based on subject: representational art, which depicts recognizable objects and aims for objectivity, and nonrepresentational art, which focuses on abstract forms and subjective expression. It explores sources of artistic subjects, including nature, history, mythology, and religion, as well as the content of art, which conveys meaning through imagery and cultural context. The chapter also highlights the importance of preserving art through museums and private collections, emphasizing the need for preservation and restoration efforts.

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9 views2 pages

Understanding Art: Subject and Content

Chapter 2 discusses two types of art based on subject: representational art, which depicts recognizable objects and aims for objectivity, and nonrepresentational art, which focuses on abstract forms and subjective expression. It explores sources of artistic subjects, including nature, history, mythology, and religion, as well as the content of art, which conveys meaning through imagery and cultural context. The chapter also highlights the importance of preserving art through museums and private collections, emphasizing the need for preservation and restoration efforts.

Uploaded by

juandelacruz315x
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© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Chapter 2: Subject and Content of Art

Two Kinds of Art as to Subject:


Representational or Objective Art:
Depicts objects commonly recognized.
Attempts to copy reality (even subjectively).
Focuses on "form" and "what" is depicted.
Strives for objectivity.
Examples:
Still life: Inanimate objects (natural or man-made) in an artificial setting.
Portrait: Face and expression are predominant, showing resemblance, personality, or
disposition.
Landscapes, Seascapes, Moonscapes, Cityscapes
Mythology and Religion, Dreams and Fantasies

Nonrepresentational or Nonobjective Art:


No reference to anything outside itself.
No recognizable objects.
Abstract; does not represent real-world objects.
Focuses on "content" and "how" the artwork is depicted.
Shows the artist's ideas and feelings (subjective).
Emphasizes visual appeal through shapes and colors.

Sources of the Subject of Art


Nature: Landscapes are a common subject and inspiration.
History: Art conditioned by the historical period. Rulers and great deeds are often portrayed.
Greek and Roman Mythology: A significant source of subjects, especially during the
Renaissance.
Religion: Enormous influence on visual arts, music, architecture, and literature.
Sacred Oriental Texts: Sacred texts of Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism,
Zoroastrianism, Jainism, and Islam.

The Content of Art


The meaning, message, and/or feeling imparted by a work of art.
Linked with form (pictorial aspects).
What the image means.
Communicated through:
The art's imagery
Symbolic meaning
Surroundings where it is used or displayed
Customs, beliefs, and values of the culture
Writings that explain the work

Understanding Content: Levels of Meaning


Factual Meaning:
Literal statement or narrative content.
Objects are easily recognized.
Conventional Meaning:
Special meaning an object or color has for a culture or group.
Examples: Flag (nation), Cross (Christianity), Wheel (Buddhism).
Subjective Meaning:
Individual meaning expressed by the artist.
Personal symbolism based on experiences.
May require artist's explanation for full understanding.

Keeping Art
Reasons for preserving artwork:
National pride and glory.
Economic benefits (tourism, jobs).

Institutions for Keeping Art


Museums:
Repositories of art available for public viewing.
Do not sell art; hold it in public trust.
Engage in education and conservation.
Private Collections:
Older than museums.
Collected by rulers, nobles, and priests.
Kept in palaces or temples for aesthetic pleasure, personal/ritual use, or display of power.

Preservation and Restoration


Efforts and resources devoted to protecting art from:
Time
Environment
Industrial byproducts
Human damage

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