week 3 class 5

Definition of modernism as a break from established rules that have developed over centuries since the Renaissance.
Focus on avant-garde artists and their influence and impact on contemporary art.
Outline of the day’s topics:
- Continued discussion of Henri Matisse and his significance.
- Introduction to Pablo Picasso and his artistic journey.
- Overview of the Armory Show.
- Examination of the concept of "Art as Provocation," introducing Marcel Duchamp.
Reference to the course structure:
- This session corresponds to week three of the course.
- Discussion on recently completed quiz and ongoing grading opportunities.

Week three discussions:
- Transition from Matisse leading into Picasso and their respective styles.
- Importance of studying specific artworks as a means of understanding larger movements.
Evaluation of students' performance on the first quiz:
- Majority received A grades, indicating overall strong performance.
- Upcoming assessments include four more quizzes and a presentation, contributing to grade continuity.

Showcasing of a specific artwork to engage students:
- Questions posed about the medium, period of creation, and general observations.
- Emphasis on visual reading and interpretation of art without the context.

Students encouraged to express thoughts:
- Initial observations note the realism depicted.
- Medium identified as oil on canvas.
- Discussion on realistic elements:
- Painting's details like lamps, faces, and background.
Group analysis of the painting:
- Michael mentions the use of proper perspective and proportions, which have been less visible in previously discussed pieces.
- Elements such as color, texture, and quality of rendering are evaluated, noting particular focus on realism and naturalistic detail.

The conversation shifts to the skill level of the artist:
- Likely established artist, with indications that this artwork could be part of a museum collection.
- Inquiry into the artist’s training and background, suggesting a seasoned individual.

Students hypothesize about the context:
- Religious themes suggested, leading to a deeper understanding of the painting’s subject matter.
- Correct identification of theme surrounding Catholic communion, and its significance as a coming of age ceremony for a young girl.

Unveiling the identity of the artist behind the painting:
- The painting is revealed to be created by Pablo Picasso, painted when he was just 14 years old, during his early teen years.
- Discussion of Picasso's capability and the impact of his early works:
- Attributed to his father's role as an art teacher and the expectations that arose from it.
- Students express disbelief and excitement over Picasso's talent at such a young age.

Discussion on Picasso's shift from realism:
- Noting that although he succeeded in perfecting classical styles, Picasso sought to find his own voice in the art world.
- Evaluation of career choices that lead art to evolve beyond traditional practices.

Picasso's relocation to Paris as a key moment:
- Emphasis on the artistic environment of Paris in the early 20th century and its influence on aspiring artists.
- Contextual mention of significant artworks produced in this period, showcasing the progression of his work.

Discussion around a specific work titled "La Bovre's Dabcin" (The Absinthe Drinker):
- Transitioning to 1901 when Picasso was approximately 20 years old.
- Thematically exploring feminine representations and societal norms within his work.