College of Engineering, Architecture,
and Technology
Name __________________________________________Course & Year ______________
MODULE 7 : Art in Early Civilization
Course No. : GE 103
Course Title : Art Appreciation
Course Description: Art Appreciation is a three unit course that develops students ability to
appreciate, analyze and critic works of art through interdisciplinary and multimodal
approaches, this course equips students with a broad knowledge of the practical, historical,
philosophical and social relevance of the arts in order to hone students ability to articulate
their understanding of the arts. The course also develop students competency in researching
and curating art as well as conceptualizing, mounting and evaluating art productions. The
course aim to develop student’s genuine appreciation for Philippine arts by providing them
opportunities to explore the diversity and richness and their rootedness in Filipino culture.
Total Learning Time: 3 Units (3 hours lecture per week)
Pre-requisites : None
Overview :
Art Appreciation is the knowledge and understanding of the universal and timeless
qualities that identify all great art. The more you appreciate and understand the art of
different eras, movements, styles and techniques, the better you can develop, evaluate and
improve your own artwork.
This module gives a basic understanding of how art is defined and the different ways it
functions in societies and cultures. It covers the following topics: What is Art; Art
Appreciation: Creativity, Imagination and Expression; Functions and Philosophical
Perspectives on Art; Subject and Content; Artists and Artisans; Elements and Principles of
Art; Art in Early Civilizations; Art of Emerging Europe; Caught in Between: Modern and
Contemporary Art; Soulmaking, Appropriation and Improvisation; and Art in Asia.
Learning Outcomes: After completing this module, the students should be able to:
1. Discuss how art was used by prehistoric people to depict everyday life;
2. Identify the central themes of prehistoric art;
3. Differentiate the techniques used during the three kingdoms of early Egypt; and
4. Explain how art is linked with religion in early Egyptian civilization.
Indicative Content:
Prehistoric Art; Paleolithic Art; Neolithic Art; Egyptian Art;
ART APPRECIATION
Stone Age is a term used to describe a period of history when stones were used to make
tools for survival. The term “conjures an image of men and women dressed in skins, huddling
before a fire in cave”. Though prehistoric humans would not necessarily possess the complex
rational capabilities to tell their story through written records and accounts, some artifacts in
the form of cave paintings and sculptures would serve as the “storytellers.” In order to talk
about prehistoric art, there is a need to situate them within the context of the three periods of
the Stone Age culture (which roughly span the 14,000 – 2,000 BCE): Paleolithic (the late
years of the Old Stone Age), Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), and the Neolithic (New Stone
Age).
The unearthing of archeological artifacts and remains provides modern society a glimpse
of the beliefs, practices, and activities of early civilizations. The motives and reasons behind
the creation of ancient materials such as sculptures, paintings and architectural structures may
not be clearly defined. Nevertheless, the early people produced such materials that reflect
their attitudes and belief systems on spiritual, social, political and economic matters. It can be
noted that works of art and architecture were created from a wide array of materials from
limestone to precious gems and metals to name a few. As the early humans started to
transition from being nomads to permanent settlers, their everyday activities also had some
changes, which is evident through the materials and even the works of art they have created.
Despite changes as a result of adapting to their environment, there are central themes in their
artworks. Most ancient artworks depict religious symbols, a wide array of organisms from
nature and activities of everyday life.
Prehistoric Art
Archeological explorations reveal that there has been a gradual shift from a nomadic
lifestyle of early humans to that of permanent settlements, paving the way for the rise of early
civilizations. The Stone Age has witnessed how humans were able to lead more stable lives
and eventually come up with permanent shelters and tools for survival. To complement this
stability and sense of permanence, early humans also turned to the creation of paintings and
sculptures that depict humans, animals, and their natural habitats. It would seem that there
were attempts to record the kind of lives they led within that period of time. Central to the
representation of early civilizations would be the establishing of possible linkages among art,
religion and life.
Paleolithic Art
It is a product of climate change. As the climate
got colder, part of the early humans’ instinct to look
for shelters that would provide them with warmth.
Caves became protective havens for the early humans
and these caves paved the way for the birth of their
first attempts to create art. One cave painting can be
traced back to Lascaux, France and its discovery
came as a surprise. Two boys chased after their dog
into a hole where their ball got stuck in. When they
followed the dog, they were astonished to discover a
cave with beautiful paintings. The cave paintings
would eventually be called the “Hall of Bulls.”
ART APPRECIATION
The figures depicted on the walls were done with a certain level of crispness and life that
there were initial hesitations of the work’s authenticity. However, evidence later on pointed
out that the cave paintings were created during the Paleolithic Period. It is also important to
take note that the paintings evoke naturalism, which is evidently seen through the contours of
the animals’ body and their dark colors. Although most people would think that early humans
were primitive, some of their art techniques were considered advanced for their time. Some
of the early humans already used their own version of spray-painting techniques by using
ground pigments blown through reeds or hollowed-out bones since these were the readily
available materials for them. Aside from this spray-painting technique, early humans also
worked with foreshortening and contrasting of lights and shadows. These techniques created
the illusion of three-dimensional forms and seemingly real representation of animals.
Artworks can be considered ornamental but there is little evidence to fully back up this
notion, that early humans created these cave paintings for that very purpose. Most of these
works were discovered inside the deep recesses of caves so they may not necessarily be used
as decorative items. Some would say that these caves with paintings all over the walls and
ceilings served as a kind of sanctuary for the early humans. As a safe haven, religious rituals
could have possibly transpired within the confines of the caves. Some believed that there was
a linkage between what was drawn and what could happen in real life. For example, drawing
or painting the capture of a prey would translate to an actual capturing of an animal in real
life. In addition, some of the works found reflected some of the early beliefs of humans
especially with life and fertility. One of the works that reflected such beliefs would be a
sculpture called the “Venus of Willendorf.” this figure is a highly abstracted woman
from highlighted body parts associated with fertility.
Figure 2 shows that the woman has oversized
breasts, enlarged hips, and round abdomen.
ART APPRECIATION
Neolithic art has developed especially when life for the early humans has become more
stable. They have learned to cultivate the land and domesticate animals. By 4000 BCE, there
were several monumental and architectural structures erected. One of them is the Stonehenge
located in Southern England.
The purpose of this fascinating edifice remains a mystery up to this day and age. Some
regard it as a temple while others see it as complex calendar the tracked the movements of
both the Sun and Moon. Others ascribe some magical element to it by associating it with
Merlin the Magician from King Arthur’s story. For whatever purpose it was built on, it still
remains as one of the architectural wonders the world has ever seen.
As the Neolithic Period drew to a close, it was evident that different elements of
civilization flourished in various parts of the world. It is also notable that most early
civilizations emerged and flourished in river valleys: the Nile in Egypt, Indus in India, Tigris
and Euphrates in Mesopotamia, and Huang Ho River in China.
Egyptian Art
The Fertile Ribbon starts from the banks of the Nile River, which flows north to
Africa and ventures into the Mediterranean. It is in this very ribbon where early Egyptians
recognized the integral role of the Nile River to their daily lives. It is this indispensability and
utility that eventually led to the belief that the Nile River is to be worshipped as a God. With
this came the notion that art was something that can be ascribed and associated with religion.
The Egyptian civilization can be divided into three periods: Old, Middle and New Kingdom.
Looking at the three periods, it can be noticed that for the Egyptians, art should be something
religious and spiritual. There may
have been differences in the
techniques used and style
emphasized, but there are common
denominators among the artworks
created during their respective
time periods.
During the Old Kingdom, it
was evident that religion was
bound to the afterlife. A concrete
manifestation of this would have
to be the erection of tombs. But
the tombs were not just for
keeping the dead bodies of
important people, particularly the
pharaohs; they also served as a shelter for the next journey, which is the afterlife. They
decorated the tombs with everyday objects that would reflect day-to-day activities as if the
afterlife is a mere continuation of what transpired on earth. The human figures seen in the
tombs were represented in such a way that the profile of the head was evident, while the
pelvis, legs, and upper torso were prominent and the eyes are in frontal view. Inside the
tombs, the walls were also decorated and carved in very low relief and incised detail. It can
be noticed that the use of color was evident but may have not been widely utilized because of
its relative impermanence.
ART APPRECIATION
One of the cosmetic palettes found in Egypt was called the Narmer Palette. It was a
palette that utilized and applied dark colors around King Narmer’s eyes. The palette
was also a symbol that commemorates the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt. The
unification was significant because it marked the beginning of their civilization.
At the back of the palette, King Narmer can be seen wearing the crown of Upper Egypt
looking victorious over a slain enemy. In addition, two more dead warriors can be seen
beneath him. To his right is a falcon, the God Horus perched on papyrus stalk, which is a
symbol of lower Egypt. The top is sculpted with bull-shaped heads with human features that
is a representation of Hathor. This God symbolizes love and joy. What is very prominent is
the King’s size in comparison with the objects in the palette. Narmer being the subject, is
evidently larger than the people around him. This is a clear indication and assertion of his
royal status. The front palette, on the other hand, shows lion like figures with intertwined
necks bound on leashes and tamed by two men. King Narmer still present at the front side
and he is shown reviewer the captured enemies. In this portrait, he is seen wearing the crown
of Lower Egypt and holding some objects that denote power. The Narmer palette is one of
the artifacts that emphasizes the king’s supreme and absolute authority. In most cases,
the king is not just authority figure but can be depicted and revered as a deity. This common
notion among Egyptians is seen in Egyptian tomb sculptures, which are basically large in
dimensions and proportions and made out of hard material. The choice of materials is
deliberate since they want the sculptures to endure and withstand any condition. Permanence
was important because these sculptures would serve as the house of the ka or soul once the
remains of the mummy disintegrate. One striking feature of most sculptures is that
regardless of the age of death, the ka figures highlight the prime life of the deceased.
During the Old Kingdom, one of the architectural wonders was also constructed. The
pyramids of Giza served as tombs since their main purpose was to provide a resting
place for pharaohs. These pyamids are massive in size and were constructed using roughly
more than two million limestone blocks. The stones used for pyramids were quarried from a
nearby plateau. The construction of the pyramids highlighted the ingenuity and advancement
of the Egyptians for their time. Workers painstakingly moved the stones from the plateau
going to the construction site using wooden rollers. Stonecutters on the site carved the blocks
in a fine way before stacking them. The stacking process also showed the advancement of the
Egyptians since they already used a system of ropes and pulleys. They finished it off by
applying the surface with limestone for a more refined and flawless finish. The construction
of the pyramids did not only show the brilliance of the early Egyptians but it also highlighted
the reverence of the people to their pharaoh at the expense of the citizens. A lot of the
workers died or punished for not reaching the quota in the process of constructing this
massive architectural structures. However, they did not stop ensuring the excellent quality of
the outsides. The Egyptians also ensured that the insides of the pyramids would celebrate the
life of their pharaoh by lavishly decorating them. However, it posed as a problem since
thieves usually plundered the valuable objects used to decorate the insides of the pyramids.
One of the key features of the Middle Kingdom is a shift in the political hierarchy.
There is an emergence of powerful groups of landlords that threatened the authority
and rule of pharaoh. Because of the internal struggle between these two influential sides, art
has taken a back seat during the Middle Kingdom. In order for art to reemerge and flourish,
Egypt needed to have a more stable situation. This happened during the rule of King
Mentuhotep when Egypt eventually got back on track. Art during the Middle Kingdom had
some references from the Old Kingdom, however, there were some experimentation in terms
of style that transpired during this period. Portrait sculptures and fresco paintings that
were freely drawn are some of the styles that emerged during this period. To solve the
problems of thieves that plunder the tombs, the Egyptians made rock-cut tombs by carving
ART APPRECIATION
out a living rock. The insides of the tombs were still filled with chamber and the hallways
were lavishly decorated to celebrate the life of the deceased.
Egypt was not immune from foreign invaders and eventually fell into the hands of the
Hyksos. This Asiatic Tribe introduced Bronze Age weapons and horses to the Egyptians.
When these foreign invaders were overthrown, the Egyptians formed the New Kingdom. It
was a time of expansionism through territorial acquisition. Consequently, with the expansion
came an increase in wealth leading not only to economic but also political stability.
The art of the New Kingdom had references from both of the preceding kingdoms.
Monuments and sculptures were still linked with death and reverence for the deceased.
During the previous kingdoms, tombs were just used for worshipping the dead but with the
New Kingdom, they started having mortuary temples. These temples, which were carved
out of living rocks, served not only a sanctuary for the dead but also a place of worship for
the living. During this period, Egypt has established itself as a more advanced and powerful
civilization. With the newly found strength and power comes an inflated ego. Their high
regard for their people can be seen through their sculptures built on massive and monumental
scales.
After the new kingdom witnessed the Amarna Revolution led by King Akhenaton
and Queen Nefertiti. He moved the capital to Tel El-Amarna, thus the name Amarna.
During his reign, King Amentohep wanted to revolutionize the arts and religion. He
later changed hus name to Akhenaton, which came from Aton who is the sun god. This
changing of names also signified the shift in religion. During this period, the only god to be
revered was Aton. Egypt became monotheistic and Akhenaton ordered all to tear down all
monuments in reverence to Aton. He then fervently ordered the creation and erection of new
monuments in reverence to Aton. Most sculptures during
this period had curving lines and full-bodied forms. There is
emphasis to life-like artworks that are natural and seemingly
real, highlighting the features of their subjects. Naturalism
was not only used to depict the pharaoh but also was used
for members of the royal family. The bust of Queen
Nefertiti has a long and sensuous neck.
The Nefertiti bust is identified as her likeness because of
the characteristic crown, which she wears in all other
inscribed depictions of her. The portrait has immortalized
Nefertiti as the symbol of feminine beauty.
The use of naturalism in artworks was rather short-lived. When king Akhenaton died, his
successors returned to the more rigid and conventional styles they employed during the
period of the kingdoms. They also destroyed images and figures of Aton and subscribed to
monotheism.
ART APPRECIATION
One of the greatest discoveries from the
Egyptian civilization was the tomb of
Tatunkhamen. He became King at a very young
age and died at the age of eighteen. Howard
Carter discovered his tomb in 1922. they were
astonished to find gold artworks and that the
coffin was made of solid gold. The body of the
young king was covered in linen and a gold mask
covered is face.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. What was the importance and significance of art during the prehistoric period?
2. During the early Egyptian civilization, in what ways were art and religion
interconnected?
College of Engineering, Architecture,
and Technology
Name __________________________________________Course & Year ______________
MODULE 8 : Art of Emerging Europe
Course No. : GE 103
ART APPRECIATION
Course Title : Art Appreciation
Course Description: Art Appreciation is a three unit course that develops students ability to
appreciate, analyze and critic works of art through interdisciplinary and multimodal
approaches, this course equips students with a broad knowledge of the practical, historical,
philosophical and social relevance of the arts in order to hone students ability to articulate
their understanding of the arts. The course also develop students competency in researching
and curating art as well as conceptualizing, mounting and evaluating art productions. The
course aim to develop student’s genuine appreciation for Philippine arts by providing them
opportunities to explore the diversity and richness and their rootedness in Filipino culture.
Total Learning Time: 3 Units (3 hours lecture per week)
Pre-requisites : None
Overview :
Art Appreciation is the knowledge and understanding of the universal and timeless
qualities that identify all great art. The more you appreciate and understand the art of
different eras, movements, styles and techniques, the better you can develop, evaluate and
improve your own artwork.
This module gives a basic understanding of how art is defined and the different ways it
functions in societies and cultures. It covers the following topics: What is Art; Art
Appreciation: Creativity, Imagination and Expression; Functions and Philosophical
Perspectives on Art; Subject and Content; Artists and Artisans; Elements and Principles of
Art; Art in Early Civilizations; Art of Emerging Europe; Caught in Between: Modern and
Contemporary Art; Soulmaking, Appropriation and Improvisation; and Art in Asia.
Learning Outcomes: After completing this module, the students should be able to:
1. Identify the major periods in Western art history;
2. Compare and contrast the artworks produced during the different time periods and
movements; and
3. Discuss the importance of art to the development of Western culture.
Indicative Content:
Ancient Greece; Ancient Rome; Middle Ages;
Renaissance Art; Mannerism; Baroque and Recoco; Neoclassicism; Romanticism; Realism;
Post-Impressionism; Neo-impressionism; Art Nouveau; Fauvism; Cubism; Futurism
Art has been an integral part in European history. From the time of the ancient
civilizations like the Greeks and the Romans all the way to the modern times, art has been
used to communicate ideologies and belief systems prevalent within their context. Greek and
Roman Civilizations were also known as the Classical World because both cultures aimed to
embody the highest possible standard of quality in all aspects of their societies. When it
comes to both art and architecture, both civilizations intended to promote the possibility of
having an objective and widely accepted standards for beauty. The influence and impact of
both classical worlds are far – reaching. Most art movements have taken inspiration from the
certain artistic elements from the two civilizations. There are different art movements that
emerged within the different time periods in Europe. Each movement has a distinctive
ART APPRECIATION
characteristic to them highlighting the different trends and changes as they transition from
one period to the next.
Ancient Greece
The Greeks were known to excel in various fields and aspects of society. For example,
their political ideals eventually became the framework for the democratic form of
government in modern times. They also valued poetry, drama, and philosophy, which
remain interesting fields of study for the contemporary times. For those who want to
involve in the arts - painting, sculpture, architecture – one is required to have a certain
skill set and body of knowledge.
The Greeks were known to place prime importance in the use of reason. For this
civilization, man was at the center of society and how they trained their minds could be the
very foundation of how they lived their lives. The humanist ideals of the Greeks were
reflected in their democratic form of government. This certain level of freedom was also
reflected in their artworks, architecture, literature, and philosophy. The Greeks were notably
passionate about natural phenomenon and believed that nature should be in perfect order.
These principles, belief system, and ideologies are the core of Greek art and
architecture.
The development of Greek art can be divided into four periods: The Geometric
Period was a time when Greece was starting to get back when geometric shapes and patterns
have taken the spotlight in most of the artworks. The Archaic Period on the other hand,
placed importance on human figures.
This was primarily a result of Greece’s
trading activities in other civilizations.
The peak of Greek sculpture and
architecture was during the classical
period. It was during this time when the
Greeks found themselves rebuilding their
temples and focusing in creating
artworks. Hellenistic Period was the
time of Alexander the Great. During
this time, art was primarily focused on
showcasing emotion and depicting
reality. It emphasize balance while
showcasing poses and a number of
emotions evoked by the subjects. One of
the famous Hellenistic sculpture is the
“Lacoon and his sons”.
The origins of theater and drama can be traced back during the Greek civilization. The
followers of Dionysus – the God of fertility started the Greek theater. People who were
devoted to Dionysus would dance during ceremonies while
Ancient Rome
ART APPRECIATION
The Roman Republic was established around
500 BCE. This civilization eventually
transformed into one Western Europe’s
mightiest empires.
It can be said that Roman civilization came of
age during the Hellenistic Period.
Roman produce artworks that are often looking
stern, harsh and strong. They also invoked the
principles of realism in most of their works,
highlighting the features of human beings.
Aside from this, the Romans were also known to
be master builders, which earned their reputation
for grand monuments and architectural
infrastructures.
One of their architectural achievements would
have to be the Colosseum. The amphitheater was
planned and constructed during the reign of
Emperor Vespasian. One of its main uses was for entertainment purposes like public events
and gladiator games. This structure was a concrete manifestation of Roman builder’s
craftsmanship which focused on logical organization of the entire edifice.
Ancient Greece had a huge impact in the formation of Roman culture. There are a lot of
Greek influences evident in Roman theater and drama. Writers of comedy like Platus and
Terence have patterned their works to those of Greek works. Since the Roman audience was
not as enthusiastic about theatrical works unlike their Greek counterparts, most plays had to
be included in the Roman games.
Middle Ages
As the term denotes, it is the period between the decline of the Roman Empire and the
Renaissance. It was a period that is characterized by ignorance and darkness. Another
dominant characteristic of the period was that the Church was the central figure, the
most important products of the early Middle Ages would have to be copied of the Christian
scriptures. The printing press came later the Middle Ages, so copies of the scriptures
were done by hand. These copies were also done with illustrations and decorations which
highlight the religious focus of the period. During this time, great cathedrals were also built.
These cathedrals were categorized into two periods: Romanesque (1050 – 1200), inspired
by the Roman Empire; and Gothic (1200 – 1500), which had a more northern flavor
from the Goths – vulgar and barbarian.
Renaissance Art
During the Renaissance Period, artist valued
the “individual” as a subject of arts. The
influence of humanism shifted the focus of some
artworks during the Renaissance Period to
empower the “individual.” Most artworks
ART APPRECIATION
emphasized naturalism, which was also an influence of humanism since there was a great
emphasis on the proportionality of the human body. Most artist also added perspective of
depth wherein spaces were explored in different artworks. This technique provided a three –
dimensional perspective of most Renaissance paintings. Renaissance artist also gave
importance to non-religious themes or subjects. This was also brought by the privatization
of the art during the Renaissance Period, however most artworks remained religious in its
focus and theme.
During the Renaissance Period, there was also a revival of Roman theatrical plays.
These plays are performed during special occasions at the courts of Italian princes. The
plays were done in such a way that showcased grand and lavish entertainment for the
audience. Aside from the song and dance number
Mannerism
Mannerism was a period in art history, which was a product of the Renaissance
Period. During the Renaissance, artist would observe nature and try their best to emulate it
based on the observations. As the Renaissance ended, artist started directly copying
subjects from existing works of art. Most artworks during this period displayed distorted
figures, to-dimensional spaces, discordant hues and colors, and lack of defined focal point.
Baroque and the Rococo
The term “baroque” is derived from the
Portuguese term barocco which is translated as
“irregularly shaped pearl”. This period roughly
spanned from 1600 to 1750. Although it was
period following the Renaissance, it can be said
that a lot of artist s have developed styles and
techniques different from Renaissance
predecessors. Most artists used colorful palette
and ornamentation in their works.
It is also the time when Italy, strengthened not
only their religion but also other aspects like
politics, and art. Expansion was the central
theme of this period, which became very much
evident in the artworks produced during this
time. Motion and space were taken into consideration by artists like the use of dramatic
lighting and concept of time.
Music also flourished during Baroque Period. Baroque music was able to clearly
distinguish loud from soft and solo from ensemble. The birthplace of this period was the
Rome so most of the composers come from Italy (Vivaldi, Corelli, and Monteverdi).
The influence of Baroque music spread outside Italy and reached other parts of Europe. Other
well-known Baroque composers include Germany’s Bach and Handel.
Neoclassicism
There seems to be a debate among historians as to the beginnings of modern art.
There are accounts that would attribute for the emergence of this kind of art during the
French Revolution in 1789. However, other historians claim that it was the year 1863 when
there was an emergence of modern painting exhibitions.
ART APPRECIATION
Neoclassicism was a movement in Europe that
transpired during the late eighteenth and early
nineteenth centuries. It was the dominant art
movement that time which basically aimed to
revive and rekindle the influences of Greek and
Roman into art and architecture. The ancient Greeks
and Europeans had placed emphasis on human
reason and keeping society in order. These very
principles were also the dominant principles during
the Enlightenment Period.
Romanticism
Romanticism, as an art
movement, used the central
themes of Neoclassicist artworks
as a springboard. It highlighted
heroic elements into their work.
During the Age of Revolutions,
there has been a tremendous focus
on patriotic and nationalistic
movements. The major and central
themes of Romanticism movement
include the emphasis on the
goodness of mankind. Most works
also promoted justice, equality, and
social order. Artists also emphasized emotions and feelings of man, which was a deviation
from the humanist principles of rationalism.
Realism
Realism as a style of work focuses on the accuracy of details that depicts and
somehow mirrors reality. There is a little room for imagination in this movement since
emphasis is placed in observable traits that can concretize through artworks. Realism
was heavily influenced by Hellenistic Greek culture since most artworks during that period
placed emphasis on the human body.
Realism as a modern movement in art veered away from traditional forms of art. In a way,
it revolutionized themes and technique in paintings. In addition, this movement also
expanded and widened existing
notions of what can be considered as
art. Since artists worked within the
context of revolutions and social
change, artistic works began to depict
real-life events. Idealistic concepts
and images were replaced by real
manifestations of society. There is a
move to combine both art and life in
artistic works since the modern world
ART APPRECIATION
were suitable for subjects of art. This movement also reexamined existing belief systems and
traditions.
Figure 14. Gustave Courbet, “Burial at Ornans”
Impressionism
The impressionism movement started in France, which led to a break from the
tradition in European painting. Impressionism is the style of painting that emerged in the
mid-late 1800s. Impressionist artists
incorporated scientific principles to
achieve a more distinct representation of
color. The distinctive characteristics of
this style is that it allows the artist
emphasize the immediate impression he
has of a particular event or scene. The
said impression is communicated by the
artist through his work and can be
seen through the brushstrokes,
distinction of colors and the lights and
shadows used by the artist.
Fig15. Claude Monet, Impression Sunrise, 1872 (exhibited in 1874)
Post- Impressionism
It is an art movement that emerged in France, which is a result of both the influence and
rejection of Impressionism. Most artists that belong to this movement started off as
impressionist but later on saw the inherent limitations and flaws of impressionism. This
eventually led to the development of individual style that gave emphasis to defining from
with the use of broken colors and short brush stroke. Some of the famous post-
impressionism artists include Paul Cezanne, Georges Seurat, Paul Gauguin, and Vincent Van
Gogh, among others. Most of the works of the said painters became the framework of the
contemporary techniques and trends during the twentieth century.
Neo- Impressionism
As an art movement, neo-impressionism is considered as response to empirical realism of
impressionism. Most painters who subscribe to such movement rely on a systematic and
scientific that have a predetermined visual effects not only on the art work itself but also how
the audience perceive the art. The leading figure in neo-impressionism was Georges Seurat
who recorded optical sensations on a more scientific manner. His color theories paved the
way for the technique called pointillism. The art technique basically utilizes discrete dots and
dashes of pure color. These elements are believed to blend with the viewer’s perspective.
Aside from Seurat, other neo-impressionist artist include Henri-Edmond Cross, Maximillien
Luce and Camille Pisarro, among others.
Art Nouveau
Between 1890 and 1910, countries from Europe and the United States witnessed the
emergence and flourishing of a new art style. This ornamental style of art was a break from
the conservative historicism, which was prevailing and dominant theme of most Western
artworks. This ornamental style uses long and organic lines that are concretely manifested in
architecture, jewelry, and glass design. In most work, it is the asymmetrical line that usually
ART APPRECIATION
is in the form of insect wings or flower stalks. The line is done in such a graceful and elegant
manner that somehow evokes a certain power to it.
Fauvism
This is a style of painting that emerge in France In this art movement they used pure and
vibrant colors by applying straight from the paint tubes directly in the canvas. This is done to
produce a sense of explosion of colors in the canvas.
The fauves, just like the impressionist, pointed directly from nature. The difference lies with
how the fauves have this strong and expressive reaction to how they portray their subjects.
Most fauvist works reject the conservative and traditional renderings of three-dimensional
space.
Cubism
Between 1907 and 1914, French artist Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque introduced a
new visual arts style called cubism. This style would later on have a huge influence on artists
during the twentieth century. Cubists highlighted the two-dimensional surface of the picture
plane. Focusing on a flat surface was a rejection of the dominant techniques like the use of
perspective, foreshortening and modeling. In addition, one of the things that cubism rejected
was the existing and prevailing notion that art should imitate nature. Cubists emphasized that
they are not in any way obliged to copy texture, form, color, and space.
They presented a new depiction of reality that may appear fragmented objects for viewers.
Futurism
It is an early twentieth century art movement that started in Italy, which highlighted the
speed, energy, dynamism, and power of machines. In addition, common themes for works in
this movement are restlessness and the fast-[ace of modern life. Later on, the movement’s
influence branched out not only in Europe but also in Russia. The greatest impact of futurism
is evident in poetry and visual arts. The term “futurism” reflect his purpose of disregarding
the traditional method of the art in the past according to Italian poet and Editor Filippon
Tommaso Marinetti. He believes that art should embrace and embody change, innovation,
creativity, and originality.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Compare and contrast Greek and Roman artworks?
2. Discuss how mannerism art became an offshoot of works from the Renaissance?
3. Explain why Neoclassicism served as a response or reaction to the Baroque period?
ART APPRECIATION
ART APPRECIATION
