Overview
This lecture explores the core assumptions, nature, and various forms of art, emphasizing both cultural and universal aspects and the classification of artistic expressions.
Assumptions About Art
- Art is a universal phenomenon that exists across all societies and human history.
- Art is accessible to everyone and serves as a communication medium.
- Art is timeless and addresses fundamental human needs.
- Art is shaped by and reflects culture, serving as both expression and transmission of values.
- Art is an experience involving both creator and observer within cultural contexts.
- Art is intentionally created by humans, whereas nature exists independently; art interprets and enhances nature.
Nature of Art
- Art seeks to communicate beauty or ugliness through sensory experiences.
- It includes visual, auditory, performing, and literary arts.
- Artistic activities express aesthetic ideas by employing skill and imagination.
- Artistic intention aims to satisfy aesthetic interest and evoke shared feelings.
- The definition of art is a social concept, not a fixed or objective category.
- Theories of art include mimetic (imitation) and expression (emotion) approaches, but these are not exhaustive.
Forms of Art
Visual Arts
- Painting uses pigments on surfaces to create visual compositions.
- Drawing employs lines, marks, and shading to form images.
- Sculpture creates three-dimensional objects from various materials.
- Printmaking transfers ink from a matrix to paper or other surfaces.
- Photography captures images with cameras and lenses.
Performance Arts
- Music combines sounds, rhythm, and instruments to create compositions.
- Dance uses body movement to express emotions and stories.
- Theater features live acting and characterization.
- Opera blends singing, acting, and orchestral music.
Literary Arts
- Novels present extended fictional narratives.
- Short stories focus on single themes or characters.
- Poetry uses rhythmic language for emotional effect.
- Plays are written for performance with dialogue and action.
- Creative nonfiction merges factual content with literary style.
Film and Cinematic Arts
- Cinematography captures moving images with specific visual intent.
- Editing arranges and manipulates film shots.
- Sound design crafts audio elements for mood and storytelling.
- Screenwriting forms the narrative foundation of films.
- Directing oversees artistic and technical film aspects.
- Production design creates the visual environment and atmosphere.
Applied Arts
- Architecture designs and builds functional and aesthetic structures.
- Design includes visual, fashion, industrial, and interior design.
Digital and New Media Arts
- Digital art uses digital tools for creative expression.
- Interactive art involves viewer participation.
- Digital photography captures and edits electronic images.
Crafts and Artisanal Arts
- Textile arts include weaving and embroidery.
- Ceramics create objects from clay, often kiln-fired.
- Woodworking shapes wood for various purposes.
Conceptual Art
- Emphasizes ideas and intellectual concepts over traditional aesthetics.
- Includes street art, graffiti, and large-scale installations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Aesthetic — Related to beauty or artistic expression.
- Mimetic Theory — Art as imitation of reality.
- Expression Theory — Art as expression of emotion.
- Visual Arts — Art forms primarily appreciated via sight.
- Performance Arts — Art expressed through live action, often on stage.
- Literary Arts — Creative works using written language.
- Cinematography — Art of filming moving images.
- Applied Arts — Art serving both functional and aesthetic purposes.
- Conceptual Art — Art prioritizing ideas and concepts.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Analyze and classify examples of different art forms.
- Compare and contrast cultural vs. universal art in your notes.
- Review and define key terms from the lecture.