Lecture Notes: Characteristics of Contemporary Arts

Introduction

• Lecturer: Jomel B. Maglalang
• Subject: Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions
• Current Week: Quarter 2, Week 3
• Main Topic: Characteristics of Contemporary Arts
• Definition: Contemporary art is "art of today," including all forms produced in the current era (painting, sculpture, photography, performance, etc.)

Characteristics of Contemporary Arts

• No Distinct Feature: Defined by innovation, reflecting today's society and changes in environment
• Artist's Role: Ability to innovate and create modern masterpieces

Technical Characteristics

1. Innovation in Art

   • Combination of different art forms
   • Reflection of societal issues (politics, economy, culture)

2. Use of New Materials

   • Employment of unconventional materials (e.g., rice, stone, pollen)
   • Artists see value in materials thought useless by others

3. Use of Color

   • Departure from traditional uses to create new textures and themes
   • Colors impact mood, emotion, and perception
   • Examples: Cool colors (calming, blue tones) vs. Warm colors (emotional, yellow/red tones)

Contemporary Artworks by Emmanuel Garibay

• Hangarin (Aspiration/Goal): Depicts Filipino interest in sports, especially basketball
• Corpus Christi: Reflects Christ’s meaning in culture, invites exploration and multiple perspectives
• Pagpasok ni Kristo sa Maynila (Christ Entering Manila): Highlights faith and community in a street festival

Art Techniques

1. Abstract Expressionism

   • Emphasizes expression of self and emotions
   • Often violent and symbolic

2. Chromolithography

   • Developed by Jules Charest
   • Multicolor printing technique from lithography
   • Involves multiple layers of colored stone

3. Surrealism

   • Taps into the unconscious mind for creativity
   • Characterized by dreamlike visuals, symbolism, collage images

4. Fauvism

   • Aggressive use of colors, primarily primary and complementary
   • Creates a sense of explosion on the canvas

5. Cubism

   • Showcases all viewpoints of an object/person simultaneously
   • Uses geometric shapes (cubes)

6. Neoplasticism

   • Based on two-dimensionality, straight lines, and primary colors
   • Strives for purity of art

Conclusion

• Acknowledgment of the diverse approaches and characteristics that define contemporary arts.
• Encouragement to explore and appreciate the art forms discussed.