Lecture Notes on Henry Moore - Renowned British Artist

Overview

• Henry Moore: Key British artist of the 20th century.
• Contributions: Notable for his impact on plastic arts and sculpture.
• Art Style: Known for organic formal language influenced by natural elements.
• Graphic Works: Independent works with a sculptural eye.
• Famous Works: "Shelter Drawings" during WWII.

Early Life

• Born: 1898 in Castleford, West Yorkshire, England.
• Family: Seventh of eight children in a mining family.
• Early Interest: Showed early interest in art encouraged by parents.

Education and War Influence

• World War I: Served in the British Army, wounded in France.
• Education: Studied at Leeds College of Art and Royal College of Art, London.
• Influences: Taught by Jacob Epstein, influenced by African and Oceanic art, contemporaries like Brancusi, Archipenko, and Picasso.

Career and Style Development

• 1930s: Gained recognition for unique sculptures in stone and wood.
• Style: Abstract, stylized figures reminiscent of human form.
• Experimentation: Explored different materials, techniques, surfaces.

World War II Contributions

• Official War Artist: Documented wartime Britain, "Shelter Drawings," and miners.
• Artistic Response: Noted drawings of people using subway tunnels for shelter during bombings.
  • Themes: Claustrophobia, fear, collective suffering, resilience.

Post-War and Later Works

• International Fame: Growth in recognition post-WWII.
• Notable Works: "Reclining Figure" series, public sculptures in London and Germany.
• Exhibitions: Featured in Documenta, Kassel.

Artistic Techniques and Legacy

• Shelter Drawings: Use of watercolors, crayons, colored pencils.
• Technique: Wax resist technique for textural effects.
• Legacy: Deep emotionality in works, turning from surrealism to realism.
• Death: August 31, 1986; home now a museum.

Key Themes in Moore's Work

• Suffering and Resilience: Reflected in his wartime art.
• Personal Response: His works convey personal reactions to hardship.
• Documentary Art: Captures wartime experiences with authenticity and emotional depth.

Notable Observations

• Influences from Nature: Consistent inspiration for sculptural forms.
• Human Experience: Depicted with compassion and depth.
• Emotional Impact: Significant in conveying human conditions during war.