3.1 Beauty and Aesthetics

Definition of Beauty in Daily Life

• Beauty Standards Before

  • In the past, Spanish beauty standards were heavily influenced by the Catholic Church's teachings.

  • Pale skin was considered beautiful as it was associated with purity and nobility.

  • Women were expected to have a curvy figure, with a small waist and wide hips, as it was seen as a sign of fertility.

  • Thick, dark hair was also considered attractive, and women were expected to keep it long and well-groomed.

  • Makeup was not widely used, and if it was, it was only to enhance natural features.

  • Clothing was modest, with women expected to cover their bodies and wear long skirts.

  • Overall, Spanish beauty standards were focused on natural beauty and modesty, with an emphasis on physical features that were associated with femininity and fertility.

• Beauty Standards Now

  • Spanish beauty standards have evolved over time and have become more diverse and inclusive.

  • In the past, Spanish beauty standards were heavily influenced by European beauty standards, which favored fair skin, light eyes, and straight hair.

  • However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards embracing diversity and celebrating different types of beauty.

  • This shift can be seen in the increasing representation of people of color, people with curly or kinky hair, and people with diverse body types in Spanish media and advertising.

  • The use of social media has also played a role in this shift, as it has given a platform to people who do not fit traditional beauty standards to showcase their beauty and challenge societal norms.

  • Despite this progress, there is still work to be done to fully embrace all types of beauty and combat colorism and other forms of discrimination in the Spanish-speaking world.

• Aesthetics in Daily Life

  • Spain is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, which are reflected in the country's aesthetics in daily life.

  • Spanish aesthetics in daily life are characterized by a blend of traditional and modern styles, with a focus on simplicity, elegance, and functionality.

  • Spanish homes are often decorated with colorful tiles, wrought iron, and wooden furniture, which create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

  • Spanish cuisine is also an important aspect of the country's aesthetics in daily life, with a focus on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and beautiful presentation.

  • Spanish fashion is another area where aesthetics play a significant role, with a focus on classic styles, high-quality materials, and attention to detail.

  • Spanish art and architecture are also important components of the country's aesthetics in daily life, with a rich history of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

3.2 Personal and Public Identities

Public vs. Personal Identity

• Public Identity refers to the way we present ourselves to others in public spaces. It is the image we project to society, the way we want others to perceive us.

• Personal identity refers to our inner self, our individuality, and our unique characteristics. It is the way we see ourselves and the way we want to be seen by others.

The Role of Language in Public Identities

• Spanish language is an integral part of the public identity of many countries, especially those in Latin America and Spain.

• It is the official language of 21 countries and is spoken by over 500 million people worldwide.

• Spanish language has played a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and political landscape of these countries.

• It has been used as a tool for resistance against colonialism and imperialism, and as a means of asserting national identity.

• Spanish language has also been a source of pride and unity among Spanish-speaking communities, both within and outside their respective countries.

• In the United States, Spanish language has become increasingly important in shaping the public identity of the Hispanic/Latino community.

Ethnicities

• Catalan: The Catalan people are from the northeastern region of Catalonia. They have their own language, culture, and traditions, and they are proud of their unique identity.

• Basque: The Basque people are from the Basque Country, which is located in the northern part of Spain. They also have their own language, culture, and traditions, and they are known for their strong sense of identity.

• Galician: The Galician people are from the northwestern region of Galicia. They have their own language, which is similar to Portuguese, and they are known for their love of seafood and their traditional music.

• Andalusian: The Andalusian people are from the southern region of Andalusia. They are known for their flamenco music and dance, as well as their love of bullfighting.

• Asturian: The Asturian people are from the region of Asturias, which is located in the northwestern part of Spain. They are known for their cider, their traditional bagpipes, and their beautiful landscapes.

• Valencian: The Valencian people are from the eastern region of Valencia. They have their own language, which is similar to Catalan, and they are known for their paella and their beautiful beaches.

Art as a Challenger of Perspective

• War and Peace

  • Spanish art has been shaped by the country's tumultuous history of war and peace. The art produced during times of war and peace reflects the social, political, and cultural changes that occurred in Spain.

  • Spanish art during times of war is characterized by its dark and somber themes.

  • Francisco Goya's "The Third of May 1808" is a prime example of war art. It depicts the execution of Spanish citizens by French soldiers during the Peninsular War.

  • The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) also had a significant impact on Spanish art. Artists such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró created works that expressed their political views and opposition to the fascist regime.

  • Spanish art during times of peace is characterized by its vibrant and colorful themes.

  • The 20th century saw a rise in abstract art in Spain, with artists such as Antoni Tàpies and Eduardo Chillida creating works that explored the relationship between form and texture.

  • The post-war period also saw a revival of traditional Spanish art forms such as flamenco and bullfighting, which were celebrated in paintings and sculptures.

• Music as a Challenger

  • Music has been an integral part of Spanish art for centuries, with many artists depicting musicians and musical instruments in their works.

  • Spanish music is diverse and has been influenced by various cultures, including the Moors, Jews, and Gypsies.

  • Flamenco is a popular form of Spanish music that originated in Andalusia and is characterized by its passionate singing, guitar playing, and rhythmic handclapping.

  • Many Spanish artists have depicted flamenco dancers and musicians in their works, including Pablo Picasso and Joaquín Sorolla.

  • The guitar is also a prominent instrument in Spanish music and has been depicted in many paintings, such as Francisco de Goya's "The Guitarist" and Diego Velázquez's "The Fable of Arachne."

  • Spanish classical music has also made significant contributions to the world of music, with composers such as Manuel de Falla and Joaquín Rodrigo gaining international recognition.

• Fighting for Rights

  • Spanish installation and performance art is a form of artistic expression that has been used to fight for rights and raise awareness about social issues.

  • "The Invisible Man" by Santiago Sierra: This installation features a man hidden behind a wall, representing the invisibility of marginalized groups in society.

  • "The Artist is Present" by Marina Abramovic: This performance piece involved Abramovic sitting silently across from audience members for hours at a time, exploring themes of human connection and vulnerability.

  • "The Scream" by Eugenio Merino: This installation features a life-sized sculpture of a politician screaming, commenting on the frustration and anger felt by many citizens towards their government.

3.3 Contemporary Life

How Communities Value Art

• Street Art

  • Spain has a rich history of street art, with cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia being hotspots for street artists.

  • Spanish street art is known for its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and political messages.

  • Many Spanish street artists use their art to comment on social and political issues, such as immigration, feminism, and corruption.

  • One of the most famous Spanish street artists is Okuda San Miguel, whose colorful geometric designs can be seen in cities all over the world.

  • Other notable Spanish street artists include Escif, who often incorporates humor into his work, and Aryz, who creates large-scale murals with a surrealistic style.

  • The city of Valencia hosts the annual "Poliniza" festival, which celebrates street art and brings together artists from all over the world.

• Museums

  • Spain is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, housing an extensive collection of art, history, and culture. Here are some of the most notable museums in Spain:

    • Prado Museum: Located in Madrid, the Prado Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of European art from the 12th to the 19th century, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. The museum also has a significant collection of Flemish and Italian art.

    • Reina Sofia Museum: Also located in Madrid, the Reina Sofia Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It houses works by some of the most famous Spanish artists, including Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. The museum is also home to Guernica, Picasso's famous anti-war painting.

    • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a modern and contemporary art museum located in Bilbao. The building itself is a work of art, designed by architect Frank Gehry. The museum houses a collection of works by some of the most famous contemporary artists, including Jeff Koons and Anish Kapoor.

    • Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Located in Madrid, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is home to a collection of over 1,000 works of art. The collection includes works by some of the most famous artists in history, including Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. The museum also has a significant collection of American art.

    • Picasso Museum Barcelona: Is dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso. It houses over 4,000 works by the artist, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The museum is located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona and is housed in five medieval palaces.

• Other Historical Sites

  • Spain is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many historical sites that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most notable ones:

    • The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Andalusia. It was built during the 14th century by the Nasrid dynasty and is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The complex includes the Alcazaba fortress, the Nasrid Palaces, and the Generalife gardens.

    • The Sagrada Familia is a large unfinished Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Catalonia. It was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi and construction began in 1882. The church is known for its unique and intricate design, which combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.

    • The Mezquita is a mosque-cathedral located in Cordoba, Andalusia. It was originally built as a mosque during the 8th century and was later converted into a cathedral in the 13th century. The building is known for its stunning architecture, which combines Islamic and Christian styles.

    • Toledo is a city located in central Spain that was once the capital of the country. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Alcazar fortress, the Cathedral of Toledo, and the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca.

    • Segovia is a city located in the Castile and Leon region of Spain. It is known for its well-preserved Roman aqueduct, which was built in the 1st century AD, as well as its medieval castle and cathedral.

3.4 Families and Communities

Immigration

• Immigration is the movement of people from one country to another with the intention of settling there permanently or temporarily.

• Spanish-speaking countries have a long history of immigration due to various reasons such as economic opportunities, political instability, and social unrest.

• The largest Spanish-speaking country in terms of immigration is the United States, which has a significant population of Spanish-speaking immigrants from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other Latin American countries.

• Other Spanish-speaking countries such as Spain, Argentina, and Chile have also experienced significant immigration from neighboring countries and other parts of the world.

• Immigration has had a significant impact on the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Spanish-speaking countries, with immigrants contributing to the growth and development of these countries in various ways.

Chicano Art

• A unique form of art that emerged in the United States during the Chicano Movement in the 1960s. It is a visual art form that reflects the experiences and struggles of Mexican Americans, also known as Chicanos.

• Chicano art is characterized by its use of bold colors, symbolism, and political messages.

• It often incorporates elements of Mexican culture, such as Aztec and Mayan imagery, as well as Catholic iconography.

• Chicano artists also use their art to address social issues such as immigration, racism, and poverty.

How Art Records History

• Prehistoric Art

  • Spanning from the Paleolithic to the Bronze Age, Spanish prehistoric art is characterized by its cave paintings, megalithic structures, and sculptures.

  • The most famous prehistoric art in Spain is found in the Altamira Cave, which features realistic depictions of animals such as bison, horses, and deer.

  • Other notable cave art sites include El Castillo, Lascaux, and Tito Bustillo.

  • Megalithic structures such as dolmens and menhirs were also common in prehistoric Spain, with the most famous being the dolmen of Menga in Antequera.

  • Sculptures were also created during this time, with the most famous being the Lady of Elche, a stone bust of a woman wearing an elaborate headdress.

• Aztec Art

  • Refers to the art produced by the Aztecs during the Spanish colonial period in Mexico.

  • The art was heavily influenced by the Spanish and European styles, resulting in a fusion of indigenous and European art forms.

  • The art was used to convey religious and political messages, and was often commissioned by the Spanish rulers and the Catholic Church.

  • The art often depicted religious themes, such as the Virgin Mary and the saints, as well as Aztec deities and rituals.

  • The art also reflected the social and political changes that occurred during the colonial period, such as the introduction of new technologies and the rise of the mestizo class.

  • Some of the most famous Spanish Aztec artists include Juan Correa, Baltasar de Echave Orio, and Cristobal de Villalpando.

  • Spanish Aztec art continues to be an important part of Mexican culture and history, and is celebrated through museums, galleries, and cultural events.

• Art in War

  • The war inspired many artists to create works that reflected the political and social turmoil of the time.

  • The Republican government supported the creation of art that promoted their cause, and many artists joined the fight by creating propaganda posters, murals, and paintings.

  • One of the most famous artists of the time was Pablo Picasso, who created the iconic painting "Guernica" in response to the bombing of the Basque town of Guernica by German and Italian warplanes.

  • Other notable artists who created works related to the war include Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Francisco Goya (whose famous painting "The Third of May 1808" inspired many artists during the Spanish Civil War).

  • The Nationalists, on the other hand, were more conservative and favored traditional art forms. They were critical of the avant-garde movements that had emerged in Spain in the early 20th century.

  • Despite this, some Nationalist artists also created works related to the war, such as José Moreno Villa's "The Massacre of Badajoz" and Luis García-Ochoa's "The Death of the Matador."

• The Rulers

  • Spanish rulers commissioned many paintings during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

  • These paintings often depicted the rulers themselves, their families, and their courtiers.

  • The paintings were used to promote the power and wealth of the Spanish monarchy.

  • Many of the paintings were created by famous artists such as Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Goya.

  • Velázquez painted many portraits of King Philip IV and his family, as well as courtiers and other important figures.

  • Goya painted portraits of King Charles IV and his family, as well as scenes of Spanish life and political commentary.

• Photography

  • Spain has a rich history of photography, with notable photographers such as Joan Fontcuberta, Cristina García Rodero, and Alberto García-Alix.

  • The country's diverse landscapes, architecture, and culture have provided ample inspiration for photographers.

  • Spanish photography has been influenced by various movements, including surrealism, documentary photography, and street photography.

  • The 1930s saw the emergence of the Escuela de Madrid, a group of photographers who focused on capturing the everyday life of the city.

  • The 1950s and 60s saw the rise of the "new documentary" movement, which aimed to capture the social and political realities of Spain.

  • In the 1970s and 80s, Spanish photography became more experimental, with artists exploring new techniques and pushing the boundaries of the medium.

  • Some notable contemporary Spanish photographers include Txema Salvans, Laia Abril, and Ricardo Cases.