Notes on Art history pt5

Dencostic Art

  • Definition: Dencostic refers to a painting technique where artists use hot wax mixed with pigments.

  • Notable Examples:

    • Virgin and Child with Saints and Angels: An icon from the second half of the Yearly Byzantine.

    • Origin and historical context:

    • 6th century origins, with significant pieces from the Vladimir (12th century) period of Middle Byzantine Art.

    • Medium utilized: Tempera on panel.

Iconoclasm

  • Timeframe: 726-787 CE, and 813-842 CE were critical periods characterized by iconoclasm.

  • Definition: The rejection or destruction of religious images, deemed as 'bad' by iconoclasts.

  • Consequences:

    • Creation of laws prohibiting any images or iconography, which seriously impacted artistic expression during these periods.

Gothic Architecture

  • Beginning: 1200's marked the rise of Gothic churches.

  • Key Figure:

    • Abbot Suger (1084-1151), responsible for overseeing renovations at the Church of Saint Denis in France, a pivotal church for monarchies.

    • Significance of the church:

    • It was a burial site for monarchs.

    • Initially a modest church, which expanded under Suger’s guidance.

    • Historical Anecdote: Abbot Suger was beheaded, carrying his head to the church in a significant act of martyrdom.

  • Architectural Elements:

    • The floor plan symbolism of the Church began in 1140.

    • Notable improvements: Considerable rebuilding efforts made entirely of stone were representative of the Gothic advancements in architectural style.

Syncretism in Architecture

  • Definition: Syncretism refers to the process where various faiths, cultures, and customs converge and integrate with one another, as evident in architecture.

  • Example: St. Peter’s Basilica, recognized as the main seat of the Catholic Church and the Pope.

  • Architectural Plans Discussed:

    • Two primary church layouts:

    1. Basilica plan: Characterized by a large open area, termed as a nave, with an apse (a semicircular recess) at one end.

    2. Central plan: Notable for symmetry, with overarching influences from Roman basilicas, and commonly hosted altars for Roman god worship.

Public Art

  • Functionality:

    • Public art attracts attention through color, providing critical context about its location.

    • Objectives of public art include bringing together communities, enhancing local perception, and fostering engagement.

  • Factors for Effective Public Art:

    • Attraction and color play a vital role in drawing people.

    • Safety considerations are fundamental to ensure positive community interaction with the artwork.

Community Engagement through Art

  • Collaborative Efforts:

    • Example: Patrick Daugherty’s projects demonstrate community involvement, requiring a significant volunteer mobilization

    • Materials and Techniques:

    • Weaving natural materials is highlighted as a part of artistic expression which can take 3 to 5 days to complete.

    • A public artwork example includes dancing women depicted in circular dresses, symbolizing community and cultural participation.

Serpent Mound

  • Historical Artifact: A significant structure known as the Serpent Mound, originating around 1070 CE, demonstrates cultural links to the Mississippian period.

  • Dimensions:

    • Length: 1,200 feet,

    • Width: 20 feet,

    • Height: 5 feet.

Richard Serra's "Tilted Arc"

  • Release Year: 1981.

  • Description: This public art sculpture is site-specific, meaning it is intricately designed for a particular location and interacts uniquely with its environment, unlike generic sculptural works.

  • Artistic Implications:

    • Site-specific artworks are typically conceived with a specific locality in mind, lending them their unique context and connection to the space.

    • Popular trends include plop art, which can be purchased and placed anywhere but lacks specific connection to the site.