Blog Posting - Module 15

1. What were your expectations for this course and where they met?

- Looking back at the first blog posting and discussion board I made, my expectations were definitely met within the course. The expectations I had involved inquiring as much about art as I could possibly learn. I wanted to learn art history, applying art, how one can become an artist, etc. The topics and work done throughout the course allowed me to gain the knowledge I now have regarding the curiosity of the questions asked.  

2. Now that you've been through this course, What is art? How would you define it now compared to your intial posting?

- Now that I've been through this course, I would define art in a similar instance as my inital posting. Art being, a creative skill of imagination for indivudals to express themselves emotionally, mentally and spirtually. 

3. Who was your favorite artist in your original posting and who is your favorite visual artist now? If there is a difference, why do you think so? If you have the same favorite artist, why do you think so?

- In my initial posting, my favorite artist states an African American painter named Bou Bou. Now, my favorite visual artist includes the African American painter Kara Walker. The biggest difference between the two is the fact that Bou Bou is a free hand painter whereas Walker is a contemporary painter, silhouettist and print-maker. Her work really stands out to me since it is unlike anything I have ever seen and I love the statements being the works. 

 4. Now that you've completed this course, how do you feel about taking an online course? Is your answer the same as it was in your first posting? How is it the same or different?

- With the course now being completed, I enjoy taking online courses. There is some irony due to all of my classes switching to online learning, however it has not changed my perspective about taking an online course. I enjoy the flexibility of online courses, along with not having to focus on being on time to class and mandatory attendance. I've had nothing but good experiences. 

Blog Posting - Module 14 (Art Gallery Visit #3)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art located in New York, United States was the gallery of my choosing;
https://artsandculture.google.com/streetview/metropolitan-museum-of-art/KAFHmsOTE-4Xyw?hl=en

Title: Self Portrait with Straw Hat

Artist: Vincent Van Gogh

Media: Oil on canvas

Size: 40.6 x 31.8

Year: 1887

Title: Self-Portait II

Artist: Horace Pippin

Media: Oil on canvas

Size: 21.6 x 16.5 cm

Year: 1944

Title: Self-Portrait

Artist: Rembrandt Van Rijn

Media: Oil on canvas

Size: 80.3 x 67.3

Year: 1660

1. Why did you select the inspiration pieces?
- I selected the inspiration pieces due to the artwork being of interest to me. The artists I chose are well known for practicing and creating self-portraits. Therefore I wanted to choose pieces that posses history and depth.
2. Why did you select the media to create your self-portrait?
- The main reason why I selected the media to create my self-portrait was since I knew it would be the most distinguishable. I didn't want to ruin an image with paints and/or pencil since I am not the best at free hand drawing. Which is why I wanted to edit in a collage form.
3. What challenges did you face in creating your self-portrait and how did you overcome them?
- Some challenges I faced in creating my self-portrait involved trying to take a picture of myself that I was pleased with since I am not photogenic. I also struggled with creating something that represents a self-portrait from going back and forth with backgrounds, textiles, etc. I overcame these challenges by taking multiple photos of myself and then just choosing one, as well as the media I chose. Having just played around with various formats an settling on the ones that I was pleased with.
4. How does this piece represent you?
- This piece represents me since I believe it defines my circumstances at the moment. Being stuck at home as if locked up due to COVID-19, representing the black lines behind the photo. Along with adding options that played into my silliness, such as the light, blush pink background, leave stems and heart mustache.
5. What elements and principles of art did you apply in this work?
- Some of the elements of art I applied to my work includes lines, color, shape and space. Some of the principles of design I included involves contrast, emphasis, pattern and unity.
6. Did you enjoy working on this project?
- I did enjoy working on this project since I was able to be creative. I was able to be creative with implementing things that stuck out to me. I also was able to be silly when creating my work due to wanting to establish a specfic mood and space I am in at the moment.
7. What do you think of your final artwork?
- I am pleased with my final artwork. I enjoyed creating the work by playing around with various tools and establishing something beautiful. I really enjoyed adding the contrast and saturation to the piece, which adds character and life. 

Blog Posting - Module 13

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

An Acquiring Mind: Phillipe de Montebello and The Metropolitan Museum of Art;

- The key concepts I learned by watching this video includes Phillipe de Montebello was the longest serving director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, having guided the execution of 84,000 works of art. I also learned that today, nearly 2 million objects of world art are contained in the museums growing collection. In 2007, Montebello announced his retirement, which is also when the museum re-opened the newly renovated American classical galleries. 

LIVE Q&A wit MoMA Curator Anne Umland (April 24);

- By having watched this video, some of the key concepts I acquired involves the Museum of Modern Art was founded in 1929. The primary goal of the museum is establishing the modern art as worthy of the people's attention as the venerated art of the past. As Anne Umland began answering questions, some things I also learned relates to the establishing and opening of art exhibits, taking about 2-3 years from start to finish, depending on the exhibit itself. Also, striving to have an open mind and to be a perfectionist are the most important skills to become a curator. 

The Lowdown on Lowbrow: West Coast Pop Art;

- The things I learned from this video include the definition of Lowbrow being, a person regarded as uncultivated and lacking in taste. I also learned, Robert Williams originated the term in 1979 from his book, "The Lowbrow Art." A specialist on the term Lowbrow stated, the thing that is repellent about Lowbrow is that it really blitz creek the idea that high culture requires a certain level of intlligence. 

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

- The videos does relate to the ceation of my art exhibit project. This is due to the research I acquired to be able to relate to my theme and concept. As Anne Umland, MoMA Curator mentioned, I asked a lot of questions in my beginning and end stages. The only thing that I believe takes away from an acutal Art exhibit involves the actual art pieces I put together not being in an actual art gallery. 

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?

- In my opinion, the films were very informative and enlighting. They also added depth to understanding of the art concepts I practiced while creating my curation project since I was able to take artwork and art curtation inspirtation and tie it together. I acquired useful information about establishing skills from Art curator Anne Umland, being passionate about my work from Phillipe de Montebello and the ability to create something I want from artists creating Lowbrow art. 

Project #4 Reflection Journal

When it came to project #4, creating my own art exhibit, I didn't know exactly where to start. I first watched the videos on Art Curation and obtained an understanding of how an exhibit should be put together. Once I got a grasp on the process, I thought about a theme I wanted to create for my own exhibit. I used google slides and I found a template that fit my liking, then I began searching for artwork. I searched for my art pieces on ArtStor and art and culture on google. I searched for multiple artwork from various artists, saving photos and keeping track of the arists, media, size, year and site reference as I went. Once I had several different art pieces and artists, I chose my top 10 that I thought would best fit my theme and I placed them within my powerpoint. I then explained how each art work fit within my theme and included an analysis of the art criticism tools. Each piece of artwork I included within my exhibit fits my concept and theme of being comfortable in your own skin, which is primarily what I aimed to achieve. 

Blog Posting - Module 12

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

Jacob Lawrence;

- Some key concepts I learned from having watched the video involves, Lawrence was viewed as one of the countries most respected artists. He grew up around the Harlem Renasissance and the community supported his craft. He also spoke to young artists about trying to master their dreams and passions in life and listen to elders.

Faith Ringgold;

- The main concepts I took away from this video was Ringgold being born during The Great Depression and lived in Harlem. In the 1960s, Ringgold became a leader in a protest movement to open museums to works by artists of color. I also learned that Ringgold knew she needed to get involved with womens issues, therefore she became apart of the movement in America to equalize things. 

Romare Bearden: A Black Odyssey;

-  From having watched the video, I learned that Bearden is an American artist who is best known for his colleague works. He was an African American artist who told the epic story of other African Americans in America though his art. I also learned he was born in 1911 and died in 1988, therefore he experienced and witnessed a lot throughout his life. 

Fauvism; 

- The key concepts I learned from this video involves Fauvism being a French avant-garde art involvement, which gained recognition at the start of the 20th century. This was a vibrant style of painting with bright and bold colors. Henri Matisse and Andre Derain both established Fauvism who strayed away from the traditional work but practiced in bold colors. 

Amadeo Modigilani;

- From this video, I learned that Modigilani was an expressionist, modern artist. I also learned, he was born into a banrupt family and had many complications throughout his life. Modigilani was inspired by African masks and incorporated some of the similar faces into his works. Unfortunately, Modigilani's art was not well received during his lifetime, therefore he never experienced financial success as an artist. 

The best moments from Dolce&Gabbana Alta Moda;

- Some key concepts from this video included a fashion show with various clothing pieces in Sicily's Valley of the Temples. Women were dressed in extravagant and bold statement pieces, fitting perfect with the location. All different kinds of patterns, textures and colors were displayed during the show. 

'On Creativity' interview with fashion icon Norma Kamali;

- During this video, the key concepts I learned were from the statements of Norma Kamali herself. Kamali is known as the orginator of the sleeping bag coat, high heel sneakers, the all in one wrap dress and a red bathing suit. "Whenever you feel good about yourself, whatever you wear is going to look amazing", as stated by Kamali. She is an advocate for taking care of one's body so one ages well and feels good about themselves. 

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

- This video relates to the readings in the text since the readings touch upon similar things discussed in the videos. The readings involves futher information regarding Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden and Faith Ringgold's influence on African American culture and art. Also discussing the modernism and classical dress of art that Norma Kamali implemented into society and the world.

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

- In my opinion, each one of the films were informative and interesting. I enjoyed hearing and reading about African Americans changing the world through the power of art. They add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts since I am able to read the articles knowing what these artists represent and how they influenced the world. I also am able to get a better sense at the importance of historical art and apply it to future artworks. 

Blog Posting - Module 11 (Art Gallery Visit #2)

Questions about the Place:
1. What is the name of Gallery/Museum you visited?

- The J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, CA
2. What is the URL of the Gallery/Museum you visited?

- https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-j-paul-getty-museum

3. Why did you select this Gallery/Museum?

- I selected this gallery/museum due to the colorful painting on the main page of the museum by Vincent Van Gogh. Seeing the vibrant colors on the painting intrigued me to want to learn more about the flowers painted. Also, I wanted to see what other colorful and vibrant paintings were within the museum.

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

- Soft, warm, dull light is used throughout the space. Changing from a warm to cool light based on the structure and architecture of the rooms.
2. What colors are used on the walls?

- Various colors are used on the walls within different rooms such as a pale green, neutral grey, brown, pink and white.
3. What materials are used in the interior architecture of the space?

- Materials such as glass, bronze, wood and cushioned couches are used in the interior architecture of the space.
4. How is the movement of the viewer through the gallery space?

- The movement of the viewer through the gallery space is limited. Each artwork collection is placed within a room, having to move from space to space. The gallery consists of several different rooms, all confined spaces with pieces of artwork on the walls and in the middle of the room.

Questions about the artwork:

1. How are the artworks organized?

- The artworks are organized within different rooms of the art gallery. Several pieces of artwork hang from the walls, having close to 4-6 inches away from the next piece. Primarily involving paintings and occasional sculptures in the center of the room.

2. How are the artworks similar?

- The artworks are similar due to many of them being paintings beginning to blend into each other, causing them all to look the same in a way. There also are several similar colored and textured frames, allowing them to be similar. 
3. How are the artworks different?

- The artworks are different based on the artist who created them and brought the work to life. Also, the furniture pieces of art all have different and unique patterns, being able to separate them from one another.
4. How are the artworks framed?

- The artworks are framed with big statement pieces. The frames being textured, patterned or solid colored. Each frame fitting the artwork accordingly, giving a very extravagant feel.
5. How are the artworks identified and labeled?

- Each artwork has a white, square piece of writing to the right of the piece, labeling them. Identifying the artist, title, media, date, size and description. Identified exactly the same as other art galleries like the Burchfield Penney Art Center. 
6. What is the proximity of the artwork to each other?

- As aforementioned, each artwork perceives to be 4-6 inches away from each other. Allowing the room to look full, having pieces cover all 4 walls while also allowing the viewers eyes to determine each artwork separately.

Select three of the artworks from the show and use the Art Criticism worksheet to describe, analyze, bracket and interpret the work using the 5-step Art Criticism Process described.

Artist: Vincent Van Gogh

Title: Irises

Media: Oil on canvas

Date: 1889

Size: w93 x h71.1cm 
URL:

- Within the artwork, I see various shades of colors used. Irises are painted all throughout the work, implementing the beautiful violet hued flower. Some of the principles and elements of design that are used includes lines of the stems the flower blooms from, along with the color of the flowers and detail surrounding the flowers. Shape is seen from the actual iris flower itself. The texture of the painting looks like a painting and it appears smooth. Balance is used due to the amount of repetitive flowers encircling the painting. Resulting in also pattern and unity due to the artist wanting the viewer to feel peaceful. This piece of artwork is also similar to Van Gogh's other iris paintings in a vase. I believe the artist is trying to establish the beauty of nature. Saying that flowers grow from the ground and individuals can pick those flowers to admire it's beauty. 

Artist: Claude Monet

Title: Still Life with Flowers and Fruit

Media: Oil on canvas

Date: 1869

Size: w81.3 x h100.3cm
URL:

- By looking at this painting, I see a full vase of flowers with fruit neighboring the vase in various locations. The flowers are colorful, as well as the fruit, creating a clear view and sense of the images. Some elements of design that are used within this painting involves color all amongst the flowers and fruit of the art. Along with the shape of the fruit, identifying the grapes as grapes and apples as apples. Space is also evident due to the white empty space of the paper napkin that the fruit is on. The principles of art identified in this painting involves contrast from the black background, blending in with the white of the flowers and napkin. Also, emphasis and rhythm due to the viewers eye moving throughout the painting and creating consistency. This artwork reminds me of a picnic with family or friends due to the woven basket and the napkin placed, like a spread is about to occur. I think the artist was trying to say similar things as Vincent Van Gogh's painting. Being that, there is beauty and life in nature. Seeing the colors of the fruit and flowers tends to enhance one's mood and create a sense of peace.

Artist: Joseph Ducreux

Title: Self-portait, Yawning

Media: Oil on canvas

Date: 1783

Size: w88.9 x h114.3cm
URL:

- From this painting, I see a man dressed in a turban and red jacket stretching his arms out, yawning with an open mouth. The elements that are involved with this painting includes form, due to Ducreux stretched out arms. As well as space and texture based on the empty space surrounding the individual and the ability to see the smooth furrow in the artists eyebrows and wrinkles in his cheeks. Some principles of design that are shown within the painting includes emphasis and movement. This is due to the viewer's eye going straight to the open mouth with the first glance at the painting, imitating a yawn, along with the almost 3D arm at the forefront of the painting. I think the artist was trying to capture and study the art of yawning. Saying, expressing oneself is a way of life by putting yourself out there and not being ashamed of the natural human body instincts. 

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.?

- I enjoyed visiting the gallery virtually and viewing the exhibition from a different perspective. I was able to chose a galley from a wide range of options, not only limiting myself to what is local around me. Even though I did enjoy the virtual viewing of the tour, it was a change since I was dealing with technology and couldn't physically be in the presence of a art gallery with several well known pieces. I also couldn't obtain an accurate look at the architecture within the gallery, however I did establish the layout as best I could by looking at each room and studying the gallery. I believe the virtual tour was still a learning experience where I could educate myself on various artworks and artists, even with the unfortunate times of not being able to experience an art gallery visit physically. 

Blog Posting - Module 11

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

Futurism: The Art/Life Revolution;

- I chose this this video due to the title. Seeing "Futurism: The Art/Life Revolution" became of interest to me since the word futurism is another word for future. I knew the video would focus on the transition of art from the past and present tense to the future. I was interested in finding out what the video would actually entail. 

In The Shadow of Hitler: German Art - Post - World War I to the Present;

- This video was chosen due to wanting to know more information about Hitler during his time. Hitler remains a topic of discussion amongst history, therefore I wanted to understand how art played into his ruling. Also, how WWI changed the art dynamic to make it what it is today.

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

Futurism: The Art/Life Revolution;

- As this video was told in the first person by Filippo Marinetti, I learned various amounts of things. Some of the key concepts I learned included, on February 20th, 1909, the Manifesto of Futurism, created by Marinetti showed up on the front page of newspapers. Marinetti founded futurism, predicting that the future will be electric and fast. I also learned that Marinetti joined fascism, even though he wasn't a fascist in any kind. His passion was writing and establishing Futurism. 

In The Shadow of Hitler: German Art - Post - World War I to the Present;

- Within this video, I learned that Hitler was an artist, obsessed with paintings, sculptures and architecture. I also learned that Hitler developed his ideas in Austria and the entire Nazi movement began with a hatred of modern art. For about two decades after the war, Germany dedicated itself to purging, rebuilding and forgetting. New art was uncovered and discovered, establishing a movie theater where people can have new scenery. 

3. How do the videos relate to the readings?

- The videos relate to the readings by providing historical events and information in conjunction with the readings. The readings include periods of art history within the 1900s to the present, involving art in Nazi Germany that tie together with the "In the Shadow of Hitler" video. The readings also allow me to grasp what is being discussed in the videos and understand the historical art better.

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

- My opinion of the films is a better understanding of life during the Revolution and WWI evolving into the future and present world. Each of the films I chose had a unique narration and story telling behind them, which allowed me to process the information differently. One video was told from first person while the other was told from third person. They add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts by allowing me to connect the information together, seeing the similarities within the videos and readings.