ASSUMPTIONS AND

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NATURE OF ART
 INTRODUCTION . . .

Art is a multifaceted and subjective

realm, shaped by various
assumptions and inherent
characteristics.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:

a. Subjectivity: In simpler terms, this means that what one person considers
valuable or meaningful in a work of art might not be the same
for someone else. The appreciation of art is often a personal and
subjective experience, influenced by individual preferences,
emotions, and cultural backgrounds. Different people may
• Artistic value is subjective interpret and value the same piece of art in diverse ways,
and varies based on leading to a range of opinions and perspectives.
individual experiences and
perspectives.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Abstract art, such as Wassily Kandinsky's
"Composition VII," invites subjective interpretations based on
a. Subjectivity: individual emotions and perceptions.

• Artistic value is subjective

and varies based on
individual experiences and
perspectives.

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 1. Lack of Concrete Representation: Abstract art, by definition, does not attempt to depict
the external, recognizable world in a literal manner. Instead, it often relies on shapes,
Subjectivity?! colors, lines, and forms to convey emotions, ideas, or concepts. This departure from
Why o why? concrete representation allows for a wide range of interpretations.

2. Personal Interpretation: Viewers of abstract art may bring their own experiences,
emotions, and perspectives to their interpretation of the artwork. Without a clear,
recognizable subject, individuals are more likely to project their own meanings onto the
canvas, making the interpretation a subjective and personal experience.

3. Open to Multiple Meanings: Abstract artworks, including Kandinsky's compositions,

often leave room for ambiguity and multiple interpretations. The same painting can
evoke different emotions or thoughts in different viewers. This variability in responses
contributes to the subjective nature of abstract art.

4. Emphasis on Individual Experience: Abstract artists like Kandinsky often sought to

express inner emotions and spiritual ideas rather than depict external reality. As a result,
the connection between the viewer and the artwork becomes highly personal, with each
individual engaging with the piece based on their unique perceptions and feelings.

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SO . . .

In essence, abstract art challenges traditional

notions of representation and invites viewers
to engage with the artwork on a subjective
and personal level. The interpretation and
appreciation of abstract art often depend on
the viewer's individual experiences and
perspectives, aligning with the idea of
subjectivity in artistic value.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
b. Expression:
It highlights the fundamental role of art in allowing individuals,
particularly artists, to communicate and share their inner
thoughts, emotions, and ideas with the world. Art serves as a
• Art serves as a form of powerful tool for personal expression and can evoke a wide
expression, allowing artists to range of responses and interpretations from those who
convey thoughts, emotions, experience it.
and ideas.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Frida Kahlo's self-portraits, like "The Two Fridas,"
b. Expression: serve as powerful expressions of her personal struggles and
emotions.

• Art serves as a form of

expression, allowing artists to
convey thoughts, emotions,
and ideas.

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 1. Emotional Intensity and Personal Expression: Frida Kahlo's self-portraits, such as "The
Expression?! Two Fridas," are categorized under Expression due to the emotional intensity they convey.
Through bold and vivid brushstrokes, Kahlo expresses her innermost feelings, often
Why o why?!! exploring themes of pain, love, and identity. The paintings serve as a direct channel for
Kahlo to communicate and share her personal emotions with the audience.

2. Symbolic Representation of Inner Turmoil: "The Two Fridas" exemplifies Expression

through its symbolic representation of Kahlo's inner turmoil and struggles. The painting
features two versions of herself connected by a visible artery, symbolizing the emotional
and physical connection between her conflicting identities. The use of symbolism allows
Kahlo to express complex emotions and convey a narrative that goes beyond a mere
visual representation.

3. Autobiographical Storytelling and Catharsis: Kahlo's self-portraits, functioning as

autobiographical storytelling, fall under the category of Expression as they provide a
visual diary of her life experiences. "The Two Fridas" is a poignant example where
Kahlo's art becomes a form of catharsis, allowing her to process and communicate the
challenges and emotions associated with her relationships and health. The paintings
serve as a therapeutic outlet for the artist to express and confront her own reality.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
c. Aesthetic
Experience: It emphasizes that art is a holistic experience that goes beyond
mere visual aesthetics. It engages the senses, elicits emotional
responses, and often invites intellectual contemplation, creating
• Art provides an aesthetic a rich and multifaceted encounter between the artwork and the
experience, stimulating the
audience. Art, in its various forms, has the capacity to enrich,
inspire, and provoke thought and emotion.
senses and eliciting emotional
or intellectual responses.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Salvador Dalí's surreal painting "The Persistence of
c. Aesthetic Memory"
Experience:

• Art provides an aesthetic

experience, stimulating the
senses and eliciting emotional
or intellectual responses.

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 Visually Arresting Composition and Aesthetic Qualities:
Salvador Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory" is categorized under aesthetic experience due to
Aesthetic its visually arresting composition. The soft, dreamlike landscape with melting clocks draped
Experience?! over various objects creates a surreal and visually intriguing scene. The meticulous attention to
detail and the use of warm tones contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal, engaging the
Why oh why?! viewer's sense of sight.

Emotional Impact and Sensory Engagement:

The painting elicits an emotional impact and engages the viewer's senses through its
surreal and fantastical elements. The melting clocks can evoke a sense of wonder or
unease. The distorted and dreamlike landscape stimulates a sensory experience that goes
beyond the ordinary, creating an emotional response that is integral to the aesthetic
encounter with the artwork.

Intellectual Provocation and Symbolic Exploration:

"The Persistence of Memory" invites intellectual engagement by exploring concepts of
time, reality, and perception. The melting clocks, draped over various objects, challenge
traditional notions and provoke intellectual contemplation. Viewers may find themselves
intellectually stimulated as they interpret the symbolic meaning behind the distorted
clocks and contemplate the broader implications of the surreal imagery, contributing to a
rich and multifaceted aesthetic experience.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:

d. Creativity
It underscores that art is a dynamic and inventive process.
Artists engage in creative acts that involve thinking outside
conventional boundaries, introducing fresh ideas, and
• Art involves a creative
expressing their individuality. The result is often a work of art
that reflects the artist's unique perspective, creativity, and
process, often characterized
capacity for original thought.
by innovation, originality,
and imagination.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
An example of an artwork that exemplifies creativity is Pablo
Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" (1907).
d. Creativity

• Art involves a creative

process, often characterized
by innovation, originality,
and imagination.

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Creativity?! Cubist Style: "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" is considered a pioneering work of
Cubism, a revolutionary art movement that Picasso co-founded. Cubism
Why? involved the deconstruction of traditional perspectives and the representation of
subjects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. This departure from
conventional representation demonstrated Picasso's innovative approach to
depicting the human form.
Radical Departure from Realism: The painting marked a radical departure
from traditional realism in art. Picasso abandoned naturalistic proportions and
facial features, presenting the figures in a fragmented and angular manner. This
departure from realism was a bold and creative move, challenging established
norms in favor of a more abstract and conceptual representation.

Influence from African and Iberian Art: Picasso drew inspiration from
African and Iberian art, incorporating elements of non-Western aesthetics into
his work. The influence of African masks is evident in the stylized and mask-
like faces of the figures in "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon." This cross-cultural
fusion showcased Picasso's creative synthesis of diverse artistic influences.

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Creativity?!! Why o
why?!
Bold Color Choices: The use of bold and vibrant colors, such as
the contrasting blues and pinks, adds to the expressive and creative
nature of the artwork. Picasso's color choices contribute to the
emotional intensity and dynamic visual impact of the painting.

Controversial Subject Matter: The subject matter of "Les Demoiselles

d'Avignon" is provocative and controversial. The depiction of five nude female
figures, with distorted and confrontational expressions, challenges traditional
notions of beauty and femininity. This choice of subject matter reflects
Picasso's willingness to push societal and artistic boundaries.

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SO . . .

"Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" is an

exemplary artwork that showcases Pablo
Picasso's creativity through its innovative
Cubist style, departure from realism, cross-
cultural influences, bold color choices, and
controversial subject matter. It remains a
testament to Picasso's ability to redefine
artistic conventions and contribute to the
evolution of modern art.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
e. Cultural
Context: The relationship between art and culture is reciprocal. Art is
both shaped by the cultural context in which it is produced,
drawing inspiration from cultural elements, and it, in turn,
contributes to and reflects the cultural identity, values, and
• Art is influenced by and evolution of society. This interplay enriches both the artistic and
contributes to the cultural cultural spheres, creating a dynamic and symbiotic relationship.
context in which it is
produced.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Fernando Amorsolo’s “Sunday Morning Going to the
e. Cultural Town” 1952

Context:

• Art is influenced by and

contributes to the cultural
context in which it is
produced.

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Cultural?!! Why o
why?!
Rural Filipino Life:
"Sunday Morning Going to Town" captures the essence of
rural Filipino life, showcasing scenes from a typical Sunday
morning in a provincial setting. Amorsolo often depicted
idyllic rural scenes, celebrating the simplicity and beauty of
everyday life in the Philippines.
Traditional Filipino Clothing:
The painting features characters dressed in traditional
Filipino attire, providing a glimpse into the cultural
clothing of the time. Amorsolo's attention to detail in
depicting the clothing reflects his commitment to
showcasing the cultural identity and heritage of the Filipino
people.

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Cultural?!! Why o
why?! Cultural Customs and Traditions:
Amorsolo's artworks often include depictions of customs
and traditions. In "Sunday Morning Going to Town,"
viewers can observe various activities that are integral to
Filipino culture, such as the journey to town, communal
gatherings, and the use of traditional modes of
transportation.

Agricultural and Economic Context:

The painting reflects the predominantly agrarian society of
the Philippines during the mid-20th century. Scenes of
farmers heading to town on a Sunday morning speak to the
agricultural roots of the country and the importance of
communal activities in rural life.

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Cultural?!! Why o
why?! Connection to Filipino Identity:
Amorsolo's work is recognized for its celebration of
Filipino identity. "Sunday Morning Going to Town"
contributes to the cultural narrative by presenting an
idealized vision of Filipino rural life, fostering a sense of
pride and connection to cultural roots among viewers.

Influence on National Consciousness:

Amorsolo's paintings, including this one, played a role in
shaping the visual representation of the Philippines. His
works became iconic in contributing to the development of
a national visual language that resonated with the Filipino
people and their cultural identity.

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SO . . .

"Sunday Morning Going to Town" serves as

an excellent example of how Fernando
Amorsolo's artworks are deeply rooted in the
cultural context of the Philippines,
portraying scenes, customs, and clothing that
reflect the rich heritage of the Filipino
people.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:

f. Intentionality:
It highlights that artists are not accidental in their creative
endeavors. They approach their work with specific intentions
and consciously create artworks with meanings or messages.
• Artists have intentions and This intentionality adds depth and purpose to the artistic
purposefully create works
process, fostering a meaningful connection between the artist
and the audience.
with specific meanings or
messages.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night" is believed to
reflect the artist's intentional expression of his emotional and
f. Intentionality: mental state.

• Artists have intentions and

purposefully create works
with specific meanings or
messages.

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 Expressive Brushstrokes:
Intentionality?! Why o
Van Gogh used bold and expressive brushstrokes to convey a sense of
why?!
movement and emotion in the night sky. The swirling patterns intentionally
create a dynamic and turbulent atmosphere, reflecting the artist's emotional
state.

Vibrant Color Choices:

The intense and vibrant colors, particularly the blues and yellows, are
intentionally chosen to evoke a sense of both calmness and turmoil. The
contrast between the vivid colors contributes to the emotional impact of the
artwork.

Symbolism of Cypress Tree:

The tall cypress tree in the foreground is intentionally placed and serves as a
symbol. In art history, the cypress tree is often associated with death and
mourning. Van Gogh's inclusion of this symbol adds a layer of meaning to the
painting, reflecting his struggles with mental health.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:

g. Transcendence: It highlights that art possesses a transformative

quality, capable of taking individuals beyond
the ordinary and mundane aspects of daily life.
• Art has the potential to
transcend everyday
It serves as a gateway to heightened
experiences, offering a experiences, emotions, and perspectives that
glimpse into something contribute to the enrichment of the human
beyond the ordinary. experience.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: "The Garden of Earthly Delights" (c. 1490–1510) by
Hieronymus Bosch
g. Transcendence:

• Art has the potential to

transcend everyday
experiences, offering a
glimpse into something
beyond the ordinary.

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 Fantastical Imagery:
Transcendence?! Why o
The triptych presents a vast and fantastical landscape filled with surreal and
why?!
otherworldly elements. The artist's intentional creation of bizarre creatures,
hybrid forms, and imaginative landscapes transports viewers beyond the
confines of the everyday and into a realm of pure imagination.
Symbolism and Allegory:
Bosch's intentional use of symbolism and allegory adds layers of meaning to
the artwork. The triptych is often interpreted as a moral narrative, depicting the
progression from the innocence of Eden to the earthly delights and eventual
consequences. The symbolic elements transcend literal representation, inviting
viewers to contemplate deeper philosophical and theological themes.

Multilayered Narrative:
The triptych unfolds as a multilayered narrative, with each panel revealing
different aspects of the human experience. The intentional arrangement of
scenes and the interconnectedness of the panels contribute to a sense of
transcendence, as viewers are encouraged to explore the complexities of the
human condition.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
h. Medium-Specificity:
It highlights that the choice of artistic medium
significantly influences the artist's approach, creative
decisions, and the overall experience for the audience.
• Different artistic mediums have
The unique qualities of each medium contribute to the
unique qualities and
diversity and richness of artistic expression across various
characteristics that influence
forms of art.
artistic expression.

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 ASSUMPTIONS OF ART:
Example: Ludvig Von Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata"
h. Medium-Specificity: exemplifies medium-specificity.

• Different artistic mediums

have unique qualities and
characteristics that influence
artistic expression.

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 Medium: Piano Composition (Auditory Art)
Medium-Specificity?! Unique Qualities:
Why o why?! Use of musical notes, rhythm, and harmony.
Expressive dynamics and tempo changes.
Creation of mood and emotion through auditory elements.
Sequential unfolding of musical ideas over time.

Influence on Artistic Expression:

The auditory medium allows Beethoven to communicate emotions through
musical elements like melody, harmony, and dynamics.
The sequential and temporal nature of music enables the development of a
narrative and emotional journey for the listener.

"Moonlight Sonata" exemplifies the concept of medium specificity in

music, where the unique qualities of the auditory medium contribute to
the creation of a powerful and emotive artistic expression.

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THANK YOU!

PROF. ROBERT L. CASTRO

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