Blog #6: Art Excluding the West

                       The 6th group discussed the Arts beyond the West, and obviously these are arts excluding the western part of the Earth. Its styles are: Naturalism, Expressionism, and Figurative. But most of their art focused on their religion wherein they used Expressionism and Figurative style. 

                       Arts beyond the West are very impressive and made in detail. It may look simple but if you would look on it closer you would see the details and know how hard it could have been made. We should also be influenced by that, being diligent in creating a worthwhile artwork.

                       But since this art also covers Asian art, I would like to focus on it. China in particular, who influenced almost all of us and not just in ancient times but up until now! Good thing about Asian art is that their art is not just for the art itself or the typical only-for-display art  but also useful in our everyday lives.

                       Personally, I want to create the same art, that I can always use everyday, so that I can always see my creation as well! And that's something to be proud of. I really think that's the characteristic that we should inherit from them, to create a masterpiece that would be useful in our lives!

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Blog #5: An Art Caught on Act

                       I belong to the Group 5 and we discussed about the Baroque period. Baroque period ranges from 1600 to early 18th century. A continuation of Naturalism and Classicism of the Renaissance period. Characterized by Motion, Tension, Drama, Detail and Grandeur. Compared to Renaissance, which showed the moment before an event took place, Baroque artists chose the part when the action was occurring. That made it unique from other art periods. And also the thing that impressed and made an impression to me.

                       It's really hard to capture an event using paint brush, like really, an on-going event. And that's how remarkable Baroque art is! And not just because it's in motion but also because of other characteristics that made it really impressive. One is tension. How Baroque artists showed emphasis on a particular subject. The use of lights and shadows. Another is the drama. Every Baroque art has its own historical background or scenery  that made it more interesting to the viewers. Another one is detail. If you would observe one Baroque art, you would notice how detailed it's been created, 

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that it seem like it's captured by a camera with a very high shutter speed (for it's in motion). How hard is that? Really hard! And lastly, Grandeur. If you would combine the 4 characteristics given, then you'll find the art impressive! How the scene was depicted perfectly. How complete the Art is!!

                       I also liked the idea that they used models form the street, unlike the previous eras that used characters from the bible, myths, legends, and many other fictional characters. Baroque artists portrayed the things that occur around them, and gave the ordinary people a chance to be the subject, the center of attraction or of an art. Just like nowadays, anyone can take a picture of himself and upload it to the net for everyone to see, it's just that it lacks in style. 

                       I always thought about how great previous artists are, and how creative their minds are! Which inspires me to strive harder and practice harder in order to reach or even just to follow the lead of "the Greats". It's not bad to dream high, reaching it is the problem. We should continue to pursue styles as this period possess and make a difference. And create an art caught on act! :D