History and Definition of Art and Contemporary Philippine Contexts

Canonical Artworks Identified

• Lascaux: Cave paintings representing prehistoric art.

• Great Pyramid of Giza: Monumental ancient architecture.

• The Last Supper: Iconic mural by Leonardo da Vinci.

• The Birth of Venus: Famous Renaissance painting.

• Taj Mahal: Indomitable ivory-white marble mausoleum.

• La Pieta: Renowned sculpture by Michelangelo.

• Liberty Leading the People: Romanticism painting by Delacroix.

• Spoliarium: Masterpiece by Filipino artist Juan Luna.

• The Great Waves of Kanagawa: Famous woodblock print by Hokusai from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.

• Molo Church: Significant religious architecture in the Philippines.

Defining Art and Its Importance

• Definition: Art is a human activity involving the creation of visual, auditory, or performance works to express ideas, emotions, beauty, and meaning. It is also a way of life where traditions like storytelling, dance, and craftsmanship are passed through generations.

• Importance of Studying Art:

  • To understand culture and identity.

  • To appreciate creativity.

  • To express ideas and emotions.

  • To develop critical thinking.

  • To relax and heal.

The Five Purposes of Art

• Personal Purpose: Allows individuals to express personal perspectives and experiences.

• Social Purpose: Focuses on community concerns, raising awareness, and communicating social messages.

• Physical Purpose: Art serving functional ends, including architecture, furniture, and product design.

• Cultural Purpose: Preserves and reflects the traditions, beliefs, and values of a society.

• Educational Purpose: Facilitates learning and understanding of history and human experiences.

Contemporary Art vs. Modern Art

• Modern Art ($1860s \text{ -- } 1960s$): Focused on breaking from traditional styles and experimenting with new techniques.

• Contemporary Art ($1970s \text{ -- } \text{Present}$): Known as the "art of today," it is characterized by diversity in medium and philosophy. It asks, "What does this mean for the world we live in right now?"

• Key Features of Contemporary Art:

  • No boundaries.

  • Idea over object.

  • Socially engaged.

  • The world as a stage.

Philippine Art Forms and Contexts

• Contemporary Philippine Art: Combines traditional influences with modern techniques (painting, sculpture, digital art) to explore identity, history, and politics.

• Examples:

  • Batang EDSA ($2003$) by Elmer Borlongan.

  • Ombrophobia ($2020$) by Leslie de Chavez.

  • Psychogenic Fugue ($2008$) by Patricia Perez Eustaquio.

• Classification of Art Forms:

  • Tangible Art Forms: Physical objects that can be touched and seen, such as weaved products, clay, stone/wood sculptures, and paintings.

  • Intangible Art Forms: Expressions without physical presence, such as oral traditions, performance art, rituals, and traditional craftsmanship.