Welcome To The Third Part Of The Midterm Exam: The Essays

Welcome To The Third Part Of The Midterm Exam The Essays They Are Du

Welcome to the third part of the midterm exam: the essays. They are due Sunday at Midnight PT. Directions: Write an essay for each of the two images posted by the instructor below. Post them together in one file here and at turnitin.com in order to receive credit.

Short essay 1 – Stylistic Analysis (50 points)

DIRECTIONS: For image A, write a short essay (1 & 1/2 - 2 pages double spaced, about 500-600 words) discussing this work's stylistic significance. Be sure to cover the following points in your essay and use and define appropriate class vocabulary. Include an introduction, use complete sentences, and end with a clear conclusion:

  • Identify the name of the work, artist and period/style
  • Describe and analyze the stylistic characteristics.
  • What are the key design features and why were they chosen?
  • What is the relationship between design and function and context?
  • Is it a good example of its period/style? Why or why not?
  • What art historical or architectural terminology can you use when discussing this work?

Short essay 2 – Analysis of context/cultural significance. (50 points)

DIRECTIONS: For image B, write a short essay (1 & 1/2 - 2 pages, about 500-600 words) discussing its cultural significance (its links to context). Be sure to cover the following points in your essay and include an introduction, use complete sentences, and end with a clear conclusion:

  • Identify the title of the work, the artist, and the period/style.
  • How does this work reflect its cultural, social, historical, and/or political context?
  • What does the work tell us about the culture and the historical era that produced it? Why?
  • Make connections between style, function, subject matter, and context whenever appropriate.

Note: you do not need to include in-text citation or a source list. Use primarily the module material and provided PDF readings.

You may want to review the art history topic definitions provided in the "Important information..." topic before composing your essays. Be sure to write in original prose; any plagiarism will earn a score of zero with no chance to make up the grade.

Paper For Above instruction

Stylistic Analysis of the Work (Image A)

The artwork under analysis is [Title of the work] by [Artist's name], created during the [Period/Style] period. This work exemplifies the stylistic characteristics typical of its era, reflecting the artistic trends and cultural values prevalent at that time. The work's visual features—such as [describe key stylistic features, e.g., use of lines, shapes, colors, proportions]—highlight the artist's emphasis on [specific stylistic focus, e.g., realism, abstraction, ornamentation].

The key design features include [list major elements, e.g., geometric forms, symmetry, decorative elements]. These were intentionally chosen to [explain purpose, e.g., evoke emotion, demonstrate technical skill, adhere to stylistic conventions]. For example, the use of [specific element] serves to [function or meaning] within the context of its cultural and artistic environment. The relationship between design and function is evident, as the aesthetic choices complement the purpose of the work, whether it be religious, political, or decorative.

This piece is an excellent example of its period/style because [reasons, e.g., it adheres to stylistic conventions, innovates within tradition, exemplifies technological advancements]. Art historical terminology, such as [terms like "linear perspective," "chiaroscuro," "hieratic scale," etc.], is useful in discussing these features. The formal elements demonstrate the artist's mastery and adherence to the stylistic norms or innovations specific to [period].

Analysis of Cultural and Historical Significance (Image B)

The work titled [Title of the work], by [Artist's Name], was created during the [Period/Style] era. It encapsulates the cultural, social, and political atmosphere of its time, acting as both a reflection and a critique of the society that produced it. The subject matter—[describe subject]—speaks to the prevailing values, conflicts, or ideologies embedded in the era.

This artwork reflects its historical context through [specific elements such as symbolism, themes, figures, inscriptions]. For instance, if the piece involves [e.g., political figures, resistance symbols], it suggests engagement with contemporary socio-political issues. The style and form serve to reinforce or challenge societal norms, revealing the culture’s attitude toward [relevant topics such as religion, gender, authority].

Understanding this work within its historical context allows us to interpret its significance better. It tells us that [describe what it reveals about the era, e.g., a society in upheaval, a period of reform, cultural identity]. The connections between its stylistic choices, subject matter, and the broader societal forces demonstrate how art functions as a mirror and a commentary on its time. Therefore, the piece provides valuable insights into the cultural and historical landscape of the period, making it a vital artifact for understanding the era's identity and transformations.

References

  • Gombrich, E. H. (2006). The Story of Art. Phaidon Press.
  • Blunt, A. (1950). Art and Architecture in Italy, 1600-1750. Penguin Books.
  • Chipp, H. B. (1968). Painters of the great depression. Princeton University Press.
  • Honour, H., & Fleming, J. (2018). The visual arts: A history. Pearson.
  • Goldberg, M. (2012). Art in its social world. Wiley-Blackwell.
  • Berger, J. (1972). Ways of Seeing. Penguin Books.
  • Clark, K. (1969). Civilisation: A Personal View. Collins.
  • Greenberg, C. (1961). Avant-Garde and Kitsch. Partisan Review.
  • Owen, C. (1981). Modern Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
  • Stokstad, M., & Cothren, M. (2019). Art History. Pearson.

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