Lesson 3 Subject and Content in Art

Unveiling Art: Subject, Content, Style, and Presentation Methods

In this section, a comprehensive exploration unfolds, shedding light on the multifaceted

world of art. From the subjects that ignite the creative spark to the content that lends depth and
meaning, from the distinct artistic styles that shape visual expressions to the innovative methods
employed for presentation, readers are invited to embark on a journey of discovery. Delving into
these interconnected facets, this section unveils the intricate tapestry of artistic choices that
together form the captivating narrative of visual creativity.

The Subject and Content of Art

Subject is the term used for whatever is represented in a work of art. The subject of art
means what the work of art depicts. It can be a thing, a person, a place, an event or idea. It
is used to refer to the thing represented, the immediately perceived subject matter when the
work is first brought into the focus of attention. However, subject is also sometimes used to refer
to the larger, total meaning of the work after one has entered into dialogue with it and has
considered it in detail. The broader meaning of the subject is referred to as the content.
Content refers to the sensory, subjective, psychological, or emotional properties the
viewers feel in a work of art. It is the emotional or intellectual message of an artwork. In
other words, it is the meaning of the art. The meaning can be whatever the artist intends it to
mean, and this meaning is shaped by the materials, techniques, and forms it makes use of, as
well as the ideas and feelings it creates in its viewers.
The Persistence of Memory
https://www.singulart.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/the-persistence-of-memory-1931-
1140x867.jpg
In Salvador Dali’s The Persistence of Memory, the subject matter is the melting clock,
while the content is the instability and relativity of time. One thing Dalí makes very clear is that
time passes but leaves behind memories; the memory persists.

Art comes in different styles. Some art shows recognizable things like people, objects, or
places. This type of art is known as "representational art." It's like making a picture that
looks a lot like things we see in the real world. Famous examples of representational art include
Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," which shows a woman's portrait, and Vincent van Gogh's
"Starry Night," which depicts a night sky and a village. But there's another kind of art that
doesn't try to look like anything real. This is called "nonrepresentational art." It's more about
shapes, colors, and designs rather than showing specific things. An example of
nonrepresentational art is Wassily Kandinsky's "Composition VII," which is a painting full of
vibrant colors and abstract shapes.

Jackson Pollock, Autumn Rhythm #30, 1950, enamel on canvas, 105 x 207”, Metropolitan
Museum of Art. Photo Thomas Hawk. https://www.flickr.com/photos/thomashawk/11928812894

The splashes of paint in Jackson Pollock’s Autumn Rhythm #30 do not represent
anything literal. It is a painting that is only about its formal qualities. The absence of specific
objects or forms allow the viewers to focus on the interplay of colors and movement within the
painting. Another example of nonrepresentational art is the painting White Center by Mark
Rothko. Rothko divided the canvas into horizontal bands of color – yellow, black, white and
lavender. Rothko’s goal was to capture the essence of basic human emotions on the canvas
and then evoke those emotions from his viewers.

Ways of Presenting the Subject

Artists have various methods to present the subjects they choose. Let's explore some of
these methods:

1. Realism
This method involves depicting subjects just as they appear in real life. The artist pays close
attention to detail, striving to make the artwork look as lifelike as possible. An example of
realism is "Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Johannes Vermeer, where the subject's features are
intricately portrayed, resembling a photograph.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0f/
1665_Girl_with_a_Pearl_Earring.jpg/800px-1665_Girl_with_a_Pearl_Earring.jpg

2. Abstraction
Abstraction takes a departure from reality. Abstractionists create artwork that doesn't directly
resemble real-life objects. Instead, they use shapes, colors, and forms to convey their ideas. An
example is Wassily Kandinsky's "Composition VIII," where shapes and colors blend to evoke
emotions without directly representing anything recognizable.

https://www.wassilykandinsky.net/images/works/50.jpg

3. Surrealism
Surrealism goes beyond realism, presenting subjects that seem to exist in dreams and
fantasies. Salvador Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory" is an iconic example, with melting
clocks and distorted landscapes that create an otherworldly atmosphere. (refer

4. Symbolism
In this method, the artist uses subjects that symbolize deeper meanings. The subject might
resemble real life, but it's intended to represent abstract concepts. Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss"
is an example where the embrace of the figures symbolizes love and unity.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gustav-klimt.com%2FThe-
Kiss.jsp&psig=AOvVaw2LtmEYSvzhMT6rWZKy--
PA&ust=1691998743758000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBEQjRxqFwoTC
JDDhJaP2YADFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

5. Fauvism
Fauvism employs vibrant, bold colors to convey emotions and sensations associated with the
subject. Henri Matisse's "The Dance" uses vivid hues to evoke feelings of joy and energy,
even though the subject is simplified human figures.

https://arthive.com/res/media/img/oy800/work/b74/449397.jpg

6. Dadaism
Dadaism shocks by presenting real-life subjects in unconventional and sometimes unsettling
ways. Marcel Duchamp's "Fountain," a urinal presented as art, challenges the traditional idea
of art and forces viewers to question its meaning.

https://d7hftxdivxxvm.cloudfront.net/?quality=80&resize_to=width&src=https%3A%2F%2Fartsy-
media-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fi-8Le397-h2ZTgLM1iMegw
%252FMarcel_Duchamp.jpg&width=450

7. Expressionism
Expressionism emphasizes emotions by depicting subjects in ways that evoke intense feelings.
Edvard Munch's "The Scream" uses distorted shapes and colors to convey anxiety and fear,
expressing a deeply emotional state.

8. Impressionism
Impressionism captures the artist's impression of a subject, often emphasizing the effects of
light. Claude Monet's "Impression, Sunrise" shows the play of light on water, focusing on the
fleeting moment rather than intricate details.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.arthistoryproject.com%2Fartists
%2Fclaude-monet%2Fimpression-sunrise
%2F&psig=AOvVaw3Qp0C7gSlmE0ByMrCnQWlF&ust=1691998872713000&source=images&c
d=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBEQjRxqFwoTCIjv2NKP2YADFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

These methods offer diverse ways for artists to communicate their ideas, emotions, and
perspectives through their subjects, contributing to the rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Art Style

Art style encompasses the unique manipulation and arrangement of artistic elements
that typically becomes synonymous with a specific artist or artistic movement. It serves as the
creative conduit through which an artist presents their work, encapsulating their distinct
approach and visual language. Just as no person is ever an exact duplicate of any other
person, the style of any person is not exactly like that of any other person. Still, people are alike
in many respects, and so they may be grouped under certain categories to show their
likenesses. Similarly, individuals may find likenesses among the styles of various individuals. A
style in this sense is a recognition of certain characteristics in which the works of individuals are
similar.

1. The Historical Styles arise because of the similarities among people living in the same
place at the same time. These people speak the same language, dress alike, have the same
manners and customs and share the same ideas; and their work reflects this community of
interests. Examples are style of Elizabeth England, style of the Italian Renaissance, Chinese
style, early Greek style, a late Greek style and so on.
2. Styles based on Attitudes and Ideas arise as a result of similar attitudes and ideas. There
are many examples of styles in this category: naturalism, realism, impressionism,
surrealism, cubism, imagism, and others.
Factors Influencing Artistic Style

Artistic style is shaped by a multitude of factors that contribute to an artist's creative

approach and the works they produce. Here are some key factors that influence an artist's style:

1. Geographical Factors
The surroundings an artist lives in have a profound impact on their creations. For instance, the
abundance of marble in Romblon, Philippines, has led to a prevalence of marble sculptures in
the region. Similarly, Paete in Laguna, named after "paet" meaning chisel, is renowned for its
intricate wooden sculptures due to the prevalent wood carving tradition.

2. Historical Factors
Historical events weave into an artist's perspective. Jose Rizal's novels, "Noli Me Tangere"
and "El Filibusterismo," reflect the events during the final century of Hispanic rule in the
Philippines, vividly portraying the societal climate of that era.

3. Social Factors
Society and interpersonal connections significantly influence artistic expression. English writer
Ben Johnson penned "Song to Celia" while Italian sonneteer Francisco Petrarch wrote
poems for his beloved Laura. Societal expectations can dictate the subjects of paintings,
sculptures, songs, dances, literature, and films.

4. Ideational Factors
Ideas proposed by influential figures impact artistry. Sigmund Freud's concepts influenced
surrealist painters, while the belief that the human body is a beautiful subject gave rise to the
Nudism school of thought.

5. Psychological Factors (Mindset)

Artists' psychological states can imbue their work. Vincent Van Gogh's "Starry Night,"
believed to be painted during his stay in an asylum, reflects the turmoil of that period in his life.

6. Technical Factors
Techniques wielded by artists shape their style. Painters employ various methods to distinguish
their works, creating unique visual signatures.

7. Political Factors
Political forces wield influence over art. During Spanish occupation, propagandists like Jose
Rizal and revolutionists like Andres Bonifacio produced works criticizing Spain. Similarly,
the Martial Law era saw artists creating works that exposed the abuses and injustices of the
government.

8. Economic Factors
Financial and resource availability affect an artist's choices. An abstract painter might transition
to realism if abstract works fail to sell, reflecting the economic realities of sustaining a creative
career.

In essence, an artist's style is an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of geography,
history, society, ideas, psychology, technique, politics, and economics. These factors intertwine
to give birth to the diverse and captivating array of artistic expressions that enrich our world.

Two Categories of Style

There are, however, two categories of style which have been of importance for
centuries. They are (1) the classic and the romantic, and (2) the tragic and the comic.

1. Classic and Romantic:

The classic and romantic styles are two fundamental approaches to creating art and
literature that have persisted for centuries. The classic style emphasizes order, balance, and
harmony. It often draws inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman art and literature. Classic
works strive for clarity, restraint, and adherence to established rules. In visual arts, this might
involve balanced compositions, idealized forms, and a sense of proportion. In literature, it could
manifest as clear structure, rationality, and a focus on moral themes. The romantic style, on the
other hand, is characterized by emotional intensity, individualism, and a connection to nature
and the sublime. Romantic artists and writers often express intense feelings, celebrate the
imagination, and explore the mysteries of existence. In art, this can be seen through dramatic
scenes, vibrant colors, and a focus on emotion. In literature, it may manifest as a celebration of
nature, exploration of personal experience, and a fascination with the supernatural.

2. Tragic and Comic:

The tragic and comic are two contrasting themes or tones that are frequently explored in
various forms of art and literature. Tragedy deals with serious and somber subjects, often
involving the downfall or suffering of a protagonist due to their flaws or external circumstances.
Tragic works evoke emotions such as pity, fear, and catharsis in the audience. Tragic stories
may explore themes of fate, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of human actions. The
tragic style aims to elicit profound emotional responses and reflection on the human condition.

Comedy, on the other hand, is characterized by humor, light-heartedness, and often, a

happy resolution. Comic works aim to entertain and amuse the audience by exaggerating
human folly, absurd situations, and societal norms. Comedy often brings out laughter and a
sense of joy, providing a contrast to the seriousness of tragedy. Comic stories may highlight
misunderstandings, witty dialogue, and the reversal of expectations.

In summary, these two categories of style - classic and romantic, as well as tragic and
comic - offer different ways for artists and writers to approach their creations. They provide
frameworks for expressing emotions, exploring themes, and engaging with the complexities of
human experience. These categories have stood the test of time, influencing countless works
across various artistic mediums.
ACTIVITY 5
Section: __________ SCORE: ______
Last Name, First Name, M.I. _________________________________

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the correct words or phrases to complete each sentence.

1. Subject in art refers to what the work of art ___depicts____.

2. The larger meaning of a work of art, considered after one has engaged with it, is called
the ___content____.
3. Content in art refers to the __sensory, subjective, psychological, or emotional_____
properties that viewers experience and the emotional or intellectual message conveyed.
4. In Salvador Dali's The Persistence of Memory, the subject matter is the
__melting_____ clock, while the content is the instability and relativity of time.
5. Art that shows recognizable things like people or objects is called
___representational____ art.
6. Art that doesn't attempt to resemble anything real is referred to as __non-
representational_____ art.
7. Expressionism in art focuses on conveying emotions through subjects that evoke
_____intense__ feelings.
8. Realism in art aims to depict subjects with close attention to detail, resembling
___lifelike____.
9. Abstraction in art involves creating work that doesn't directly resemble __real-life_____
objects.
10. Surrealism in art involves presenting subjects that go beyond __realism_____ reality.
ACTIVITY 6
Section: __________ SCORE: ______
Last Name, First Name, M.I. _________________________________

Instructions: Determine whether the following statements are true or false based on the
provided information.

F 1. Art style refers to the manipulation of artistic elements that is unique to a specific artist or
artistic movement, encapsulating their distinct approach and visual language.

2. The term "style" is used to categorize individuals based on their unique artistic approaches,
even though no two individuals have exactly the same style.

T 3.The content of a work of art refers to the sensory, subjective, psychological, or emotional
properties that viewers experience.

T 4. The subject matter of Salvador Dali's "The Persistence of Memory" is the melting clock, while
its content conveys the instability and relativity of time.

F 5. Representational art aims to capture the essence of basic human emotions through the use
of color and form.
F 6. Nonrepresentational art focuses on depicting recognizable objects and scenes from the real
world.

T 7. Expressionism is an artistic style that primarily seeks to convey emotions through intense and
exaggerated visual elements.

T 8. Geographical factors, historical events, and social connections are among the key influences
that shape an artist's style.

T 9. The classic style in art emphasizes emotional intensity, individualism, and a connection to
nature and the sublime.

F 10. Tragedy in art often involves a light-hearted and humorous tone, exploring absurd situations
and societal norms.