Category: History of Art

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The Surrealists: Paintings, Automatic Writing, Sculpture and other art forms

Automatic writing played a crucial role in the development of Surrealism, an influential art movement that emerged in Paris in the early 20th century. Surrealists sought to explore the unconscious mind, dreams, and the irrational aspects of human experience. Automatic writing, a technique where the artist allows the subconscious to guide the creation of text or images without conscious control, became a key method for Surrealist artists.

**1. Automatic Writing and Surrealist Manifestos: André Breton, a leading figure in the Surrealist movement, embraced automatic writing as a means to tap into the subconscious. The Surrealists published manifestos that outlined their principles, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity and the irrational. Breton’s “Manifesto of Surrealism” (1924) articulated these ideas and advocated for the liberation of creative expression

Salvador Dalí. The Persistence of Memory. 1931

Surrealist Paintings: Surrealist paintings often feature dreamlike, fantastical, and bizarre imagery. Artists like Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, and Max Ernst created works that challenged conventional reality. Dalí’s “The Persistence of Memory” (1931) with its melting clocks

Rene Magritte, The Son of Man, 1964

and Magritte’s “The Son of Man” (1964) with a face obscured by an apple are iconic examples of Surrealist paintings.

**3. Surrealist Collage and Assemblage: Surrealists also embraced collage and assemblage techniques. Max Ernst, for instance, pioneered the use of frottage, a method of rubbing pencil or charcoal on paper over a textured surface, to create dreamlike landscapes. His work “The Horde” (1927) exemplifies this technique.

One of several versions, Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Surrealist Photography: Photographers like Man Ray played a significant role in Surrealism. Man Ray’s photograms, or “rayographs,” were created by placing objects directly onto light-sensitive paper. His “Larmes” (Tears) series (1930) is an example of Surrealist photography that explores abstract and emotional dimensions.

**5. Surrealist Sculpture: Surrealist sculptors, such as Alberto Giacometti, created three-dimensional works that defied traditional expectations. Giacometti’s “The Palace at 4 a.m.” (1932) is a small-scale sculpture that conveys a sense of mysterious, dreamlike narrative.

**6. Surrealist Games: Surrealists also engaged in activities like “Exquisite Corpse,” a collaborative drawing or writing game where each participant adds to a composition without seeing the preceding contributions. This playful and spontaneous approach reflected their commitment to breaking free from conscious control.

The Surrealist movement in Paris had a profound impact on the trajectory of modern art. By exploring the depths of the unconscious mind through automatic writing and other techniques, Surrealists created works that challenged societal norms and expanded the possibilities of artistic expression.

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Paris and Symbolist Art of the 19th century

Symbolism in 19th-century Parisian art was a movement that sought to convey emotions, ideas, and spiritual themes through symbolic imagery. Artists of this period often used allegorical elements and metaphors to express complex concepts beyond literal representation. Here are five examples of symbolism in 19th-century Parisian art:

The Apparition, Gustave Moreau, 1876. watercolor. Musée d’Orsay, Paris.

Gustave Moreau – “The Apparition” (1876): Gustave Moreau’s painting “The Apparition” is a prime example of symbolism. It depicts a fantastical, otherworldly scene where a mysterious female figure appears before a kneeling man. The work is rich in symbolism, exploring themes of spiritual revelation and the mysterious intersection of the divine and the earthly.

Painted in oils on board, then mounted on wood, and is now in the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands

Odilon Redon – “The Cyclops” (c. 1898): Odilon Redon, a prominent symbolist artist, created “The Cyclops,” an artwork featuring a mystical one-eyed creature. Redon’s use of vivid colors and dreamlike imagery serves to convey a sense of the fantastical and the subconscious. The Cyclops becomes a symbol of the mysterious and irrational.

Fernand Khnopff (1858–1921)

Fernand Khnopff – “The Caress” (1896): Fernand Khnopff’s painting plays an important part in the plot of the short story “The Caress” from the book “Axiomatic” of Greg Egan. The work is also an interpretation of the French symbolist painter Gustave Moreau’s 1864 painting Oedipus and the Sphinx.

The Sick Child 1885, 200 x 246 cm
Oil on canvas, Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Eugène Carrière – “The Sick Child” (1885): Eugène Carrière’s “The Sick Child” is a poignant representation of the symbolist emphasis on emotions and inner states. The subdued palette and the ethereal glow surrounding the sick child convey a sense of spiritual and emotional depth. The sick child becomes a symbol of vulnerability and mortality.

Oil on canvas, 103 x 130 cm
Walters Art Museum, Baltimore

Pierre Puvis de Chavannes – “Hope” (1872): In “Hope,” Puvis de Chavannes presents a symbolic female figure, embodying the concept of hope. The use of classical symbolism, such as the anchor and the woman looking towards the horizon, communicates optimism and the enduring human spirit in the face of challenges.

These examples illustrate the diversity within the symbolist movement, where artists used symbolic language to express personal, emotional, and often esoteric ideas. Symbolism in 19th-century Parisian art was a reaction against realism, embracing a more imaginative and evocative approach to artistic expression.

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The Rape of Proserpina by Bernini, an example of Roman Baroque sculpture

Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s “The Rape of Proserpina,” sculpted between 1621 and 1622, stands as a quintessential example of Baroque art from the 17th century. This masterpiece, located in the Borghese Gallery in Rome, captures the dynamism, emotional intensity, and technical virtuosity characteristic of Baroque sculpture.

  1. Dramatic Realism: Bernini excelled in conveying a sense of dramatic realism in his sculptures, and “The Rape of Proserpina” is no exception. The dynamic composition, with Pluto’s forceful grasp and Proserpina’s visceral reaction, creates a vivid and emotionally charged narrative.
  2. Emotional Intensity: Baroque art often sought to evoke strong emotions and engage the viewer on a visceral level. In this sculpture, Bernini masterfully conveys Proserpina’s distress and Pluto’s determined abduction, capturing a moment frozen in time and leaving a lasting emotional impact.
  3. Technical Mastery: Bernini’s technical skill is evident in the intricate details of the sculpture. The flowing drapery, the texture of skin and hair, and the finely carved fingers demonstrate his exceptional ability to manipulate marble with precision and create lifelike forms.
  4. Use of Space: Baroque artists were known for their innovative use of space, and Bernini was a pioneer in this regard. “The Rape of Proserpina” is sculpted in the round, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork from multiple angles. The spiraling motion of the figures enhances the sense of movement and drama.
  5. Theatricality and Interaction: Baroque art often embraced theatricality and aimed to involve the viewer actively. Bernini’s sculpture achieves this by drawing the observer into the intense moment of the mythological event, making them participants in the unfolding drama rather than passive spectators.
  6. Symbolism and Mythological Theme: The choice of a mythological theme, drawn from Roman mythology, was a common practice in Baroque art. Bernini skillfully interprets the myth of Pluto and Proserpina, infusing it with emotional depth and symbolic significance, reflecting broader cultural and religious themes of the time

The “Rape of Proserpina” depicts a mythological episode from Roman and Greek mythology, where Pluto, the god of the Underworld, abducts Proserpina, the daughter of Ceres (or Demeter in Greek mythology), to be his wife. This story is a part of the larger narrative involving the gods of Olympus.

The most well-known version of the myth is as follows:

Proserpina, the beautiful daughter of Ceres, caught the eye of Pluto while she was picking flowers in a meadow. Seizing the opportunity, Pluto emerged from the underworld in a chariot and kidnapped Proserpina, carrying her back to the realm of the dead. This event led to Ceres’ deep grief and anger. In her sorrow, she neglected her duties as the goddess of agriculture, causing a widespread famine on Earth.

Jupiter, the king of the gods, eventually intervened, seeking to reconcile the situation. A compromise was reached, wherein Proserpina was allowed to spend part of the year in the world above (spring and summer) with her mother, and the rest of the year in the Underworld with Pluto (fall and winter). This mythological explanation was often used to symbolize the changing seasons in ancient cultures.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s sculpture, “The Rape of Proserpina,” captures the moment of Pluto’s abduction with remarkable intensity. The dynamic composition freezes the scene at the height of the struggle, emphasizing the emotional turmoil and physical force involved in the myth. While the term “rape” in this context traditionally refers to abduction rather than the modern connotation of sexual assault, it still reflects the forceful and non-consensual nature of Pluto taking Proserpina to the Underworld.

In summary, Bernini’s “The Rape of Proserpina” exemplifies the key characteristics of 17th-century Baroque art — a dynamic narrative, emotional intensity, technical virtuosity, innovative use of space, and a penchant for engaging the viewer in a participatory experience. This sculpture remains a testament to the enduring influence of Baroque aesthetics on the art of the time.

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Rapael’s contribution to the artworks of Rome

Raphael, a prominent Italian Renaissance artist, made significant contributions to the Vatican Palace and various churches in Rome during his career. His works reflect his mastery of composition, perspective, and classical influences. Here are some notable contributions:

  1. Stanze di Raffaello (Raphael Rooms) in the Vatican Palace: Raphael was commissioned to decorate several rooms in the Vatican Palace, known as the Stanze di Raffaello. One of the most famous frescoes is the “School of Athens” in the Stanza della Segnatura, which captures the intellectual pursuits of philosophy. Other rooms include the Stanza di Eliodoro and the Stanza dell’Incendio, each adorned with Raphael’s masterful frescoes.
  1. Chigi Chapel in Santa Maria del Popolo: Raphael painted the “Chigi Chapel” in the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome. The chapel features the “Creation of the World” and the “Sibyls,” displaying Raphael’s ability to blend classical themes with Christian subjects. The chapel is an excellent example of his contribution to church decoration.
  1. The Sistine Madonna (1512-1513) – Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, Dresden: While not in Rome, Raphael’s “The Sistine Madonna” is noteworthy for its impact on religious art. It is considered one of his masterpieces, featuring the Madonna and Child surrounded by saints and angels. The painting is now housed in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden, Germany.

Basilica di Sant’Agostino: Raphael’s “Isaiah’s Vision of the Virgin” is located in the Basilica di Sant’Agostino in Rome. This painting demonstrates Raphael’s ability to convey religious narratives with emotional depth and refined technique.

Raphael’s contributions to the Vatican Palace and various churches in Rome solidified his reputation as one of the most influential artists of the Italian Renaissance. His works continue to be admired for their beauty, harmony, and the seamless integration of classical and Christian themes.

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Celebrating centuries of fine art Self-Portraiture in Western Art

Self-Portrait, c1665 by REMBRANDT Van Rijn (1606-1669).

Rembrandt van Rijn – “Self-Portrait with Two Circles” (c. 1665), Kenwood House London

Rembrandt’s self-portrait is a masterpiece that showcases his profound understanding of light and shadow. The use of two circles in the background is enigmatic, adding depth to the composition. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam houses this iconic work Kenwood House, London holds another copy of this artwork.

  1. Vincent van Gogh – “Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear” (1889) – Courtauld Gallery, London, United Kingdom: Van Gogh’s self-portraits are renowned for their emotional intensity. This particular painting reflects the tumultuous period when the artist famously cut off part of his ear. The Courtauld Gallery in London is home to this poignant self-portrait.
  1. Frida Kahlo – “Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird” (1940) – Harry Ransom Center, Austin, Texas, USA: Kahlo’s self-portraits are celebrated for their symbolism and raw honesty. This artwork, with Kahlo adorned with a thorn necklace, speaks to her physical and emotional pain. The Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas in Austin houses this iconic piece.
  1. Pablo Picasso – “Self-Portrait Yo, Picasso” (1901) – Museu Picasso, Barcelona, Spain: Picasso’s self-portrait from his Blue Period reflects his early experimentation with different styles. The Museu Picasso in Barcelona is home to this introspective piece that hints at the artist’s evolving artistic journey.
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Caravaggio’s St Catherine of Alexandria

CARAVAGGIO (Michelangelo Merisi)_Santa Catalina de Alejandría, c. 1598, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection of Madrid.

Caravaggio’s painting of “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” is a masterful work that showcases the artist’s distinctive style and dramatic use of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro. Created around 1598, this artwork depicts Saint Catherine, an early Christian martyr, who was condemned to death on a spiked wheel.

The painting captures a moment of intense emotion and spiritual reflection. Saint Catherine, with her eyes raised heavenward, appears serene despite the imminent threat of her martyrdom. Caravaggio’s skillful rendering of light accentuates the ethereal quality of her expression and illuminates the delicate features of her face.

The composition is marked by a strong sense of realism and psychological depth, typical of Caravaggio’s work. The attention to detail, from the intricate folds of the drapery to the subtle play of light on the saint’s face, contributes to the overall emotional impact of the painting.

Caravaggio’s use of chiaroscuro not only adds a dramatic dimension to the scene but also enhances the spiritual symbolism. The contrast between light and darkness becomes a metaphor for the spiritual struggle and triumph over adversity.

Overall, Caravaggio’s “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” stands as a testament to the artist’s innovative approach to religious art and his ability to infuse his paintings with a profound sense of human emotion and spirituality.

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Handsworth Songs from 1980s Britain. A warning from the past.

Handsworth Songs” is a groundbreaking film directed by Black Audio Film Collective member John Akomfrah. Released in 1986, the film is a documentary that explores the 1985 Handsworth riots in Birmingham, England, sparked by longstanding racial and social tensions.

The film combines newsreel footage, interviews, and poetic narration to present a complex narrative about the social and political climate in Britain during that time. It critically examines issues of race, representation, and the media’s role in shaping public perception.

“Handsworth Songs” is known for its innovative and unconventional approach to documentary filmmaking. It challenges traditional documentary styles by incorporating avant-garde techniques and engaging with the post-colonial discourse. The film’s layered narrative encourages viewers to question the media’s portrayal of events and to consider alternative perspectives.

In summary, “Handsworth Songs” is a thought-provoking and influential documentary that transcends conventional filmmaking, offering a unique perspective on the Handsworth riots and the broader socio-political context in Britain during the 1980s.IIt has so much relevance in 21st century Britain.

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The Bayeux Tapestry is an iconic piece of medieval art and historical record.

It is not actually a tapestry in the traditional sense, but rather an embroidered cloth that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England. Here are some key points about the Bayeux Tapestry:

  1. Origin: The Bayeux Tapestry is believed to have been created in the 11th century, shortly after the Norman Conquest. The exact date of creation is a subject of debate, but it is generally attributed to the 1070s.
  2. Length and Material: The tapestry is approximately 70 meters (230 feet) long and 50 centimeters (20 inches) wide. It is made of linen and embroidered with colored woolen threads.
  1. Narrative: The main purpose of the Bayeux Tapestry is to depict the events leading up to and including the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, particularly the Battle of Hastings. It tells the story in a continuous narrative, with Latin inscriptions providing explanations and captions.
  2. Artistic Style: The tapestry is known for its detailed and lively scenes. The embroidery style is somewhat reminiscent of the Bayeux School of Embroidery, with characters and events depicted in a stylized but engaging manner.
  3. Current Location: The original Bayeux Tapestry is housed in the Bayeux Museum in Bayeux, Normandy, France. It is displayed in a specially designed exhibit that allows visitors to view the entire tapestry.
  4. Historical Significance: The Bayeux Tapestry is considered a significant historical source for the events of the Norman Conquest, and it provides valuable insights into the clothing, armor, and tactics of the time.
  5. Ownership Disputes: Over the years, there have been discussions about whether the Bayeux Tapestry should be returned to England, where it was originally created, but it remains in France as of my last knowledge update in January 2022.

The Bayeux Tapestry continues to be a popular subject of study and a fascinating glimpse into medieval history and art. It remains a symbol of the Norman Conquest and its lasting impact on English history.

In the late 19th century, an extremely ambitious project was undertaken by a group of Victorian embroiderers to recreate the Bayeux Tapestry in full, painstakingly reproducing every single detail, stitch-by-stitch, so that the Tapestry’s timeless story could be enjoyed by the people of Britain.

Today, this artwork, Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry, is held at Reading Museum

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Four artworks featuring the Archangel St Michael

ArtistRaphael
Yearc. 1504–1505
MediumOil on wood
Dimensions30 cm × 26 cm (12 in × 10 in)
LocationLouvre, Paris

“Saint Michael and the Dragon” by Raphael: This famous painting is part of Raphael’s work in the Vatican and depicts St. Michael vanquishing the dragon.

Guido Reni. 1575-1642. Italian artist. The Archangel Michael Defeating Satan. c. 1635. 293 x 202 cms | 115 1/4 x 79 1/2 ins. Oil on Canvas.

The Archangel Michael” by Guido Reni: This Baroque masterpiece showcases St. Michael in a dynamic pose as he defeats Satan.

ca. 1622, Oil on canvas., 149 x 126 cm, Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

“Saint Michael and the Devil” by Pieter Paul Rubens (Workshop of): Rubens’ dramatic painting captures the intense battle between St. Michael and the devil.

St Michael’s Victory over the Devil (1958), at Coventry Cathedral

St. Michael’s Triumph Over the Devil” by Jacob Epstein: This sculpture, located in Coventry Cathedral, depicts St. Michael as a modern, muscular figure defeating evil

These artworks offer various interpretations of the archangel’s triumph over evil and are celebrated for their artistic significance. Everyone though, will not agree with this selection.

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The work of Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966)

Alberto Giacometti
Man Pointing 1947
Tate
© The Estate of Alberto Giacometti (Fondation Giacometti, Paris and ADAGP, Paris), licensed in the UK by ACS and DACS, London 2017

Alberto Giacometti was a sculptor and painter known for his distinctive influential contributions to modern art. His work is characterized by its exploration of the human condition, existential themes, and a unique approach to sculpting the human figure. Here are some key aspects of Giacometti’s work:

  1. Thin and Emaciated Figures: Giacometti is perhaps most famous for his sculptures of elongated and emaciated human figures. These thin and fragile figures seem to convey a sense of human isolation and existential despair. His sculptures often give the impression of figures trapped in their own thoughts and struggles.
  2. Existential Themes: Giacometti’s work is deeply influenced by existentialist philosophy, particularly the ideas of Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. His sculptures are seen as representations of the human condition, reflecting themes of alienation, isolation, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.
Jean Genet 1954 or 1955 Alberto Giacometti 1901-1966 Accepted by HM Government in lieu of tax and allocated to the Tate Gallery 1987 http://www.tate.org.uk/art/work/T04905
  1. Process and Technique: Giacometti’s sculpting technique was meticulous and time-consuming. He would often work on a single piece for an extended period, continuously refining and reworking it. This process reflects his obsession with capturing the essence of the human form and the difficulty of truly representing reality.
  2. Surrealist Influence: Earlier in his career, Giacometti was associated with the Surrealist movement. His work during this period included dreamlike and fantastical elements, as seen in pieces like “The Palace at 4 a.m.” However, he eventually moved away from Surrealism towards a more existential and figurative style.
  3. Painting: In addition to sculpture, Giacometti was a skilled painter. His paintings often featured the same thin, elongated figures as his sculptures. He used a similar approach to depict the isolation and vulnerability of the human form in his paintings.
  4. Influence on Art: Giacometti’s work had a profound impact on modern sculpture and influenced subsequent generations of artists. His minimalist and expressive style challenged traditional notions of sculpture and pushed the boundaries of how the human figure could be represented in art.
  5. Legacy: Giacometti’s legacy continues to be celebrated in the art world. His sculptures and paintings are highly sought after by collectors, and his influence can be seen in contemporary art as well.

Alberto Giacometti Surrealist Composition c. 1933 © The Estate of Alberto Giacometti (Fondation Giacometti, Paris and ADAGP, Paris), licensed in the UK by ACS and DACS, London 2017

Overall, Alberto Giacometti’s work is a testament to his exploration of the human condition and his ability to convey complex existential themes through the use of form and texture in both sculpture and painting. His contributions to modern art have left an enduring mark on the art world.