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.