Basic Concepts of Arts balance, and rhythm which can be defined as beauty,

Beauty in terms of art usually refers to an interaction

What is ART?
between line, color, texture, sound, shape, motion, and
 Art is a highly diverse range of human activities size that is pleasing to the senses.
engaged in creating visual, auditory, or performed
Art is often intended to appeal to, and connect with,
artifacts-artworks-that express the author's
human emotion. Artists may express something so that
imaginative or technical skill, and are intended to
their audience is stimulated in some way-creating
be appreciated for their beauty or emotional
feelings, religious faith, curiosity, interests, memories,
power.
thoughts, or creativity. For example, performance art
 Art is a creative activity that expresses imaginative
often does not aim to please the audience but instead
or technical skills. It produces a product, an object.
evokes feelings, reactions, conversations, or questions
The product of art is called a work of art. It includes
from the viewer. In these cases, aesthetics may be an
drawing, painting, sculpting, photography, dance,
irrelevant measure of "beautiful" art.
music, poetry, prose, theatre, etc.
 ART's original classical definition was derived from Materials: Coach
the Latin word "ars" (meaning "skill" or "craft") - is
What is ART?
a useful starting point. This broad approach leads
to art being defined as: "the product of a body of  Comes from the latin language/word "ars" which
knowledge, most often using a set of skills." means skill or craft.
 The oldest documented forms of art are visual arts,  It constitutes one of the oldest and most important
which include images or objects in fields like means of expression developed by human beings
painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and has been a part of every society across the
and other visual media. Art can be classified as globe
Visual Art, Literary Art or Performing Art.  The expression or application of creative skill and
imagination, typically in a visual forms, producing
Visual Art
works to be appreciated primarily for the beauty or
These are the arts that meet the eye and evoke an emotional power.
emotion through an expression of skill and  From prehistoric cave paintings to modern day
imagination. They include the most ancient forms, films, art serves as a vessel for storytelling and
such as painting and drawing, and the arts that were conveying mankind's relationship with it's
born thanks to the development of technology, like environment
sculpture, printmaking, photography. and installation
What is ART APPRECIATION?
art, the latter a combination of multiple creative
expressions.  Recognition of the good qualities and
understanding of art.
Literary Art
 The knowledge and understanding of the universal
Literary art is something in the form of writing or and timeless qualities that identify all great art.
stories that have artistic and cultural value that  The more you appreciate and understand the art of
displays the beauty of speech and language to convey different eras, movements, styles, and techniques,
certain meanings the better you can develop, evaluate and improve
your own artwork.
Performance Art
Characteristics of Art
Performance art, a time-based art form that typically
features a live presentation to an audience or to Many of us assume that a work of art should be
onlookers (as on a street) and draws on such arts as BEAUTIFUL and even art's entire purpose is to be
acting, poetry, music, dance, and painting. It is beautiful. However, art serves as a variety of functions
generally an event rather than an artifact, by nature encompassing more than physical beauty
ephemeral, though it is often recorded on video and by
Assumption of Art
means of still photography.
 ART IS UNIVERSAL - In every country and in every
What Makes Art Beautiful?
generation, there is always art
Beauty in terms of art refers to an interaction between  ART IS NOT NATURE - Art is man's expression of his
line, color, texture, sound, shape, motion, and size that reception of nature
is pleasing to the senses. What makes art beautiful is a  ART IS JUST EXPERIENCE - In order to know what
complicated concept, since beauty is subjective and an artwork is, we have to sense it, see or hear it
can change based on context. However, there is a basic
Classification of Art
human instinct, or internal appreciation, for harmony,
VISUAL ARTS - The Visual Arts are art forms that create drawing, painting, sculpting, photography,
works that are primarily visual in nature, such as performance art, dance, music, poetry, prose and
ceramics, drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, theatre.
design, crafts, photography, video, filmmaking and
Classification of Arts According to Functions
architecture
1. Motivated (Functional) Examples: Architecture,
weaving, furniture-making
2. Non-motivated (Non-functional) Examples:
Painting, sculpture, literature, music, and the
theatre arts,

The Common Functions of Art

1. Personal Function - Arts are vehicles for the

artists' expression of their feelings and ideas. The
art also serve as means of expression for us. The
LITERARY ARTS - The Literature in its broadest sense, is therapeutic value of art cannot be ignored. The
any written work; etymologically the term derives from works of art makes us aware of other ways of
Latin literature/literatura " writing formed with thinking, feeling, and imagining that have never
letters", although some definitions include spoken or occurred to us before. Art may also serve the
sung texts. personal function of controlling its viewers, much
like social art. It can also perform religious service
or acknowledgment.
2. Social Function - One cannot conceive of a society
without art, for art is closely related to every aspect
of social life. Arts perform a social function when:
(1) It influences social behavior, (2) It seeks or
tends to influence the collective behavior of a
people. (3) When it addresses aspects of
(collective) life as opposed to one person's point of
view or experience. Viewers can often relate in
some way to social art and are sometimes even
PERFORMING ARTS - The Performing Arts are art forms
influenced by it to enforce and enhance the shared
in which artists use their body, voice, or objects to
sense of identity of those in family, community, or
convey artistic expression- as opposed to visual arts, in
civilization (this includes festive occasions,
which artists use paint/canvas or various materials to
parades, dances, uniforms, holidays and events).
create physical art objects.
3. Spiritual Functions - The designs of religious
structures tells so many things about the culture of
the faithful. The same is true for the hymns used in
worship services, and the religious plays that
dramatized or depicting the crucifixion and death
of Christ and the time His Resurrection. Same is
true with the portraits of the Saints and religious
personalities- to express spiritual beliefs about the
destiny of life controlled by the force of a higher
power.
4. Educational Function - Art comes to be regarded
" The Road to Expertise in Art is Open to Anyone as 'time off for good behavior' or as 'therapy" and
who wants to Take It. All that it Required is an Open how the ease and carefreeness of the arts are
Mind and a Capacity to Absorb New Experiences. " supposed to bring joy and a sense of calmness."
- H.W. Janson and Anthony Janson Arts-related activities are important for so much
more than just keeping your child busy or relaxed.
They've been proven to boost a child's self-image.
Nature and Functions of Arts The self-esteem, confidence and pride that comes
from art in education is truly incredible and every
Nature of art.
child should experience that.
Art is a creative activity that expresses imaginative or 5. Political Functions - One function of sculpture and
technical skill. It produces a product, an object. The painting is the commemoration of important
product of art is called a work of art. It includes personages in society. The statues of national
 heroes that grace our parks and plazas are The physical functions of art are often the easiest to
commemorative works as are the commissioned understand. Works of art that are created to perform
paintings of leaders or rulers. Often they serve to some service have physical functions. If you see a Fijian
record important historical events, or reveal the war club, you may assume that, however wonderful
ideals of heroism and leadership that the the craftsmanship may be, it was created to perform
community would want the young to emulate. the physical function of smashing skulls.
6. Physical Function - The physical functions of art
A Japanese raku bowl is a piece of art that performs a
are often the easiest to understand. Works of art
physical function in a tea ceremony. Conversely, a fur-
that are created to perform some service such as
covered teacup from the Dada movement has no
tools and containers are objects which make our
physical function. Architecture, crafts such as welding
lives physically comfortable. Works of art that are
and woodworking, interior design, and industrial
created to perform some service have physical
design are all types of art that serve physical functions.
functions like vases, benches, chairs, etc.
Art has a social function when it addresses aspects of
Materials: Coach
(collective) life as opposed to one person's point of
ART view or experience. Viewers can often relate in some
way to social art and are sometimes even influenced by
 It takes an artist to make art. One may perceive
it.
beauty on a daily basis.
 However, not every beautiful thing that can be For example, public art in 1930s Germany had an
seen or experienced may truly be called a work of overwhelming symbolic theme. Did this art exert
art. influence on the German population? Decidedly so, as
 Art is a product of man's creativity, imagination, did political and patriotic posters in Allied countries
and expression. during the same time. Political art, often designed to
deliver a certain message, always carries a social
ARTS FUNCTIONS CAN BE CLASSIFIED INTO:
function. The fur-covered Dada teacup, useless for
1. MOTIVATED (FUNCTIONAL) holding tea, carried a social function in that it
The purposes of art which are motivated refer to protested World War I (and nearly everything else in
intentional, conscious actions on the part of the life).
artists or creator. These may be to bring about
Art that depicts social conditions performs social
political change, to comment on an aspect of
functions and often this art comes in the form of
society, to convey a specific emotion or mood, to
photography. The Realists figured this out early in the
address personal psychology, to illustrate another
19th century. American photographer Dorothea Lange
discipline, to (with commercial arts) to sell a
(1895-1965) along with many others often took pictures
product, or simply as a form of communication.
of people in conditions that are difficult to see and
2. NON-MOTIVATIONAL (NON-FUNCTIONAL)
think about.
The non-motivated purposes of art are those which
are integral to being human, transcend the Additionally, satire performs social functions. Spanish
individual, or do not fulfill a specific external painter Francisco Goya (1746-1828) and English
purpose. Aristotle has said, "Imitation, then, is one portrait artist
instinct of our nature." In this sense, Art, as
William Hogarth (1697-1764) both went this route with
creativity, is something which humans must do by
varying degrees of success at motivating social change
their very nature (i.e. no other species creates art),
with their art. Sometimes the possession of specific
and is therefore beyond utility.
pieces of art in a community can elevate that
community's status. A stabile by American kinetic
artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976), for example, can
COMMON FUNCTIONS OF ARTS
be a community treasure and point of pride.
 PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS
The personal functions of art are often the most
Tools and containers are objects which functions
difficult to explain. There are many types of personal
to make our lives physically comfortable.
functions and these are highly subjective. Personal
Functional works of art may be classified as either
functions of art are not likely to be the same from
tools or containers.
person to person.
 FUNCTION AND BEAUTY
Many things remain the same in shape throughout An artist may create a piece out of a need for self-
the years because their functional requirements do expression or gratification. They might also or instead
not allow for greater variations in their form. Time want to communicate a thought or point to the viewer.
has proved that their designs best enable them to Sometimes an artist is only trying to provide an
accomplish their purpose. aesthetic experience, both for self and viewers. A piece
might be meant to entertain, provoke thought, or even era is the Venus (or Woman) of Willendorf, a very small
have no particular effect at all. statuette of a feminine figure, thought to represent
fertility, which was a major theme during this early
Personal function is vague for a reason. From artist to
period of art history.
artist and viewer to viewer, one's experience with art is
different. Knowing the background and behaviors of an Mesopotamian (3500 BC-539 BC)
artist helps when interpreting the personal function of
The early art of Mesopotamia spans the Sumerian,
their pieces.
Assyrian, Akkadian, and Babylonian cultures, all
Art may also serve the personal function of controlling thriving empires that existed in a large region that is
its viewers, much like social art. It can also perform known modern day Iraq, Kuwait, and parts of Syria and
religious service or acknowledgment. Art has been Turkey. This era included many stone sculptures and
used to attempt to exert magical control, change the narrative reliefs, including the stele upon which
seasons, and even acquire food. Some art brings order Hammurabi's Code is carved, and the Standard of Ur.
and peace, some creates chaos. There is virtually no Writing was invented around this time period, by the
limit to how art can be used. Sumerians.

Finally, sometimes art is used to maintain a species. Egyptian (3100 BC -30 BC)
This can be seen in rituals of the animal kingdom and
Everyone is familiar with the awe-inspiring architecture
in humans themselves. Biological functions obviously
of the ancient Egyptians, including the Great Pyramids.
include fertility symbols (in any culture), but there are
Busts and statues of royal figures were a major part of
many ways humans adorn their bodies with art in
Egyptian art as well, which has many of its own unique
order to be attractive to others and eventually mate.
artistic periods. "Egyptian Art" is a pretty huge
umbrella term for an entire culture, after all.

Historical Foundations of Art Greek and Hellenistic (850 BC-31 BC)

Art Eras: Where to Begin? The period of early, Hellenistic Greek art was one of
As long as humankind has been conscious of itself, it idealism and perfection, which was reflected greatly in
has been creating art to represent this self. The earliest the era's architecture and sculptures. The Parthenon
cave paintings that we are aware of were created was built during this time, a temple dedicated to
roughly 40,000 years ago. We have found paintings and Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, among
drawings of human activity from the Paleolithic Era other things. Today, the Parthenon exists as a symbol
under rocks and in caves. We cannot truly know the of Athenian democracy. The famous styles of Greek
reason why these early humans began to produce art. column were also invented during this time: Doric,
Perhaps painting and drawing were a way to record lonic, and Corinthian.
their lived experiences, to tell stories to young
Roman (500 BC - 476 AD)
children, or to pass down wisdom from one generation
to the next. There's a vast history of Roman architecture as well,
which you can learn more about in this history of
In the history of art, Prehistoric art refers to all artwork
Roman art course. During this era, we see the
produced by ancient men before any preconceived
construction of the Pantheon - a temple dedicated to
culture and known methods of writing. The term cave
all Roman gods - and the Colosseum, among other
art is the painting and drawing of figures called
classic buildings
PETROGRAPHS or PETROGLYPHS to portray a story or
to record known history. The term is mostly used in Byzantine and Islamic (476 AD - 1453 AD) This period
connection with Stone Age Art created during the late saw the birth of the Islamic religion, and structures like
Ice Age, between about 40,000 and 10,000 BCE a period the Hagia Sophia and the Alhambra.
known as "UPPER PALEOLITHIC"
It is generally believed that this was created by the Middle Ages (500-1400)
Modern Man (Homo Sapiens)
This was the era of Celtic and Gothic art, which saw the
Stone Age (30,000 BC - 2500 BC) rise of intricate gothic cathedrals and structures like
Notre Dame. It was a dark era, home to the Black Death
The Stone Age was the era of cave painting. Well and the crusades, which was all reflected in the dark,
known pieces include the Lascaux Cave in looming, and religious nature of its art.
southwestern France, a cave system covered in cave
paintings of animals, humans, and symbols, rendered Early and High Renaissance (1400-1550)
in mineral pigment. Efforts have gone into restoring
The word "Renaissance" is a French term meaning
the paintings, which have faded. They are, after all,
rebirth, which is exactly what the Renaissance
over 17,000 years old. Another famous work from this
movement was. It was a cultural rebirth of art,
literature, and intellect after a vast period of darkness, nature of the self seen in the Romantic - all of these
disease, and war. Music, art, science, philosophy, and things were thrown out the window. The working class
other schools thrived during this era, which gave birth ruled the era of Realism, at least as far as art went.
to such greats as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Common folks' lives were pictured there, and all the
Donatello, and more. For a more in-depth guide to this mundane experiences and struggles that characterize
period, check out this art history course, which begins life. Famous artists include Courbet and Millet.
its focus on the early Renaissance era before moving
Impressionism (1865-1885)
on to the modern age.
Impressionism might have been one of the first purely
Venetian and Northern Renaissance (1430 - 1550)
aesthetic art periods, a style focused on capturing a
During this era, the Renaissance movement spread
visual phenomenon rather than an intensely political
from Italy to France, Germany, Poland and other
or religious one. Impressionism rejected dated
northern European countries. Bellini, Jan van Eyck,
techniques that dictated form and order, and painted
Bosch, and other artists reigned during this time.
freely. Their works were like impressions of scenes and
Baroque (1600-1750) people, hence the name. Painters like Monet, Manet,
and Cassatt were known during this time. If you want
The Baroque was a highly religious era that overlapped
to learn the techniques used by the impressionists,
the Thirty Years War between the Protestants and the
check out this course on acrylic painting. Watercolors
Catholics. Baroque artists like Rembrandt and
were also popular during this time. Check out this
Caravaggio were well known during this time for the
introduction to watercolors to get started with the
tense, moody, and extremely dramatic style of their
medium.
work, reflected in lighting techniques and subject
matter. Baroque architecture like that of the Palace of Post-Impressionism (1885-1910)
Versailles was known for its ornate intensity. Many of
Post-impressionism was the logical follow-up to
these art periods were reflected in the music of the
impressionism, an art style that maintained its
time as well! Check out this course on classical music
philosophy - a rejection of traditional art rules and its
for some examples.
focus on perfection - but also rejected its supposed
Neoclassical (1750-1850) limitations. Post-impressionism carried on
impressionism's free style and unrestricted brush
The Neoclassical era toned down the extremity of
techniques, but applied it to more common scenes,
Baroque while still capturing the grace and aesthetic
and also painted forms rather than just impressions.
perfection of Greco-Roman art periods. It was likely the
Notable post-impressionists include Rousseau,
overlapping Age of Enlightenment, which saw another
Toulouse-Lautrec, and van Gogh.
turn towards the scientific over the religious. That set
the tone for this era, as well as the concurrent Fauvism and Expressionism (1900-1935)
Industrial Revolution. Jacques-Louis David, and Jean-
Expressionism and its cousin Fauvism were partially
Auguste-Dominique Ingres were well known painters
products of wartime. It flourished during and after the
during this time.
first World War with its harsh colors, bold shapes, and
Romanticism (1780-1850) often its disturbing emotional content. Of course, the
last part is not a requirement of expressionism.
While past art eras had embraced the religious and the
Matisse, a Fauvist painter, usually kept things very
scientific, Romanticism saw an emphasis on the self, as
light. Then there was German expressionism,
well as a rejection of the kind of order that the
influenced highly by the disturbing works of Edvard
Enlightenment had imposed in favor of a more chaotic
Munch (who was Norwegian) and Egon Schiele.
approach to life. This took place during the American
Consider a course on oil or acrylic painting to learn the
Revolution and the French Revolution, and saw its
techniques used by the expressionists.
crowning artists across a host of different counties.
Delacroix, Turner, and Gericault, among others, Cubism, Futurism, Supremativism, Constructivism, De
defined the landscape with their dark and moody Stijl (1905 - 1920) Occurring parallel to expressionism
works. and during and after the first World War, the diverse set
of art styles including cubism, futurism,
Realism (1848-1900)
supremativism, and constructivism was important for
Realism was the first movement to finally reject all the its explorations of numerous expressionistic styles. No
drama, intensely exaggerated emotion, and grandeur longer were artists forced to capture realistic images of
of other art styles for a more grounded approach to people or beautiful scenery. This era saw shapes,
human nature. The melodrama of religion seen in the abstract objects, and highly deconstructed renders of
Baroque, the false perfection of the sciences seen in landscapes and other things used as a means of
the Neoclassical, and the embracing of the chaotic expression, rather than traditional techniques seen
before. This was a bold period for art, and saw talents Paleolithic had been replaced by geometrically
like Picasso leading the way. abstract art of Neolithic.

Dada and Surrealism (1917-1950) THE ROMAN ART (500 B.C. to 1453 A.D.)

Dada and surrealism rejected so much of traditional art Roman art began around 500 B.C. and ended at the fall
that it dived into absurdism. Elements of dreams and of Rome in 1453 A.D. medieval art covers the
the subconscious were explored with this style, as well production of art and artists in North Africa, Europe
as wartime horrors (it overlapped World War II and the and the Middle East.
atomic bombings of Japan). The Dadaists meant to
Roman art was developed largely because of the
subvert classical ideas of expression, as well as
Roman empire, During the time of Romulus to Emperor
question what art itself even means. This is captured
Constantine.
perfectly in Marcel Duchamp's piece, Fountain, which
was just a porcelain urinal he found, signed, and Roman art often depicted Roman mythology because
entered into an art exhibition. Notable surrealists of their belief in the power of gods, artists also
include Dali and Magritte. illustrated Roman emperors particularly in sculpture.
Pop Art (c. 1950s CE - 1960s CE) MEDIEVAL PERIOD (c. 450 C.E to 1400 C.E.)
Popular; Transient; Expendable; Low Cost; Mass Medieval art covered almost ten centuries between the
Produced; Young; Witty; Sexy; Gimmicky; Glamorous; Sack of Rome (c. 450 C.E.) and the early Italian
and Big Business, outlining his definition of Pop Art. Renaissance (1400 C.E.). Only one institution survived:
This quote from one of the movement's forerunners the Christian Church- centered in Rome and
aptly describes Pop Art. Satirical observers of Constantinople. The church became the main sponsor
contemporary culture, Although their individual styles of architecture and the other types of art during the
and techniques varied, together their art revealed medieval era.
American values and obsessions during the 1960s. The
movement rose to popularity unlike any other In the beginning of the medieval period, all work of art
movement. The trendy look and familiar subject are commissioned by religious authorities for
matter made Pop Art easy to like. Artists used churches/monasteries.
contemporary images, such as food product labels and
Prominent use of valuable materials such as gold. for
celebrity photographs, and mass- production
objects in churches, jewelry, mosaic backgrounds.
techniques to voice political and social commentary.
They were interested in advertising, consumer TYPES OF MEDIEVAL ART
products, television, magazines, and comics.
 ILLUMINATED MANUSCRIPTS
Postmodernism and Deconstructivism (1970 CE)  METALWORKS
 PAINTINGS
Much of postmodern art is deconstructing styles of the
 SCULPTURE
past and reinterpreting them.
 STAINED GLASS
Neo-Expressionism (c. 1980s CE)  HERALDRY

By the end of the 1970s a movement emerged that The Gothic Era (1100-1500)
threw out the cool ideas of Minimalism and embraced
Gothic art - originated in the 12th century with the
the impassioned emotions of Expressionism (a German
rebuilding of the Abbey Church in Saint Denis, France.
art movement of the early 1900s). Neo-Expressionism
Gothic architecture offered revolutionary structural
resurrected what Minimalism attempted to kill. While
advancements such as ribbed vaults, flying buttresses,
Minimalism attempted to strip away personal feelings,
and decorative pinnacles all contributing to taller and
autobiographical content became a hot subject in the
lighter building design.
Neo-Expressionist movement. Art that incorporated
Neo-expressionist ideas is often characterized by the Gothic architecture was light, graceful and mostly
raw and sensual handling of mediums, social protest, spacious in nature. Heavy piers were replaced by
and the attempt to make abstract emotions tangible. slender ones while window dimensions became larger
as vaults and spires increased in height.
The Paleolithic Period (Old stone age) in arts was the
time when primitive cave artworks were created with Gothic sculptures borrowed motifs from the
the use of primitive tools by primitive men. architecture of the period since it was primarily used to
decorate exteriors of cathedrals and other religious
The Neolithic Period (New stone age) when man began
buildings.
to develop culture and change his lifestyle. The
naturalistic art style of hunter gatherer of the Characteristics of Medieval Art
 Rich colors This was the period when classical ideals of humanism
 Heavily outlined were fully implemented in both painting and sculpture.
 Flat and stiff figures showing no depth The preceding Early Renaissance had been centered on
 Religious icons Florence and paid for by the ruling Medici family while
 Architecture is influenced by Greek and Roman- the High Renaissance was centered on Rome and paid
Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic styles emerged for by the Pontiff.
from this period.
High Renaissance artists wanted beauty and harmony
 Mosaics replaced carved decorations
more than realism, they looked for ultimate truths in
 Large domes central to the church
the study of the classical world of Greek and Roman
Medieval Churches and Monasteries culture.

Romanesque structures featured pointed arches and Late Renaissance or Mannerism

heavy thick walls,small windows like the Roman style.
The word mannerism is derived from the Italian
A lot of sculptural decorations
Maniera, meaning "style" or "manner". Mannerism was
Gothic structures featured pointed arches and have a European art style that appeared in the later years of
slender feel as if they soar upward, large stained glass Italian High Renaissance around 1520 to 1580.
windows filtered in light and color.
In comparison with High Renaissance art that
Byzantine structures featured large domes that cover emphasizes proportion, balance and ideal beauty.
soaring spaces. arches and lavish decorations. Mannerism exaggerates such qualities, often resulting
in compositions that are asymmetrical or unnaturally
RENAISSANCE (Rebirth) 14th to 17th century
elegant. It favored compositional tension and
The period in European history, from the 14th to 17th instability rather than the balance and clarity of earlier
century, was considered the link the middle ages and Renaissance painting.
the modern history. The term "Renaissance" is from
Mostly, the mannerist painting was more artificial than
the same French word, meaning rebirth or revival. It
natural. This could be attributed to such
began as a cultural movement in Italy in the late
characteristics as the unnatural display of emotions,
medieval period and later spread to the rest of Europe.
unproportionate human figures, unnatural poses.
The revival in classical learning characterized by a uncommon effects of scale, use of lighting or
sharp increase in secular values and increased interest perspective, and bright loud color.
in learning the classics.
CHARACTERISTICS OF RENAISSANCE ART
Renaissance is reflected in humanism. Humanism
1. Realism and Expression:
focused on developing the full potential of man. This
a. Emotions was depicted in faces
included not only the traditional virtues of love and
b. Humans are natural and life like-very
honor but also virtues such as judgement, prudence
realistic
and eloquence.
c. Nudity
Leonardo da Vinci, making observational drawings of 2. Perspective
anatomy and nature. a. Adjustment in size
b. Depth
The most important development of the period was c. Making 3D world on 2D surface
not a specific discovery but rather a process for
discovery, the scientific method. Influential promoters Baroque (1600-1750)
of these ideas include Copernicus and Galileo.
The progression of art celebrating the lives of humans
Early Renaissance over the power of the divine continued into the
Baroque era. King's, princes, and even popes began to
By 1500, because of the rediscovery of the classical prefer to see their own power and prestige celebrated
world, the art of painting was radically changed. The through art than that of God. The over-exaggeration
Renaissance revived ancient forms and content. The that classified Mannerism also continued into the
spiritual content of painting changed, and subjects Baroque period, with the scenes of paintings becoming
from Roman history and mythology were borrowed. increasingly unrealistic and magnificent.
Devotional art became classically humanized. Classical
artistic principles, harmony, proportion, realistic New materials that glorify wealth and status like gold
expression and rational postures were followed. and marble become the prized materials for
sculptures. Opposites of light and dark, warm and cold
High Renaissance (c. 1490- 1530) colors, and symbols of good and evil are emphasized
beyond what is naturally occurring.
The Rococo Art Period (1725-1780) and responses that objects and events arouse within a
person.
The paintings from the Rococo era are typical of the
French aristocracy of the time. The name stems from The artists within this movement were not interested
the French word rocaille which means "shellwork". The in naturalism or what things look like on the outside.
solid forms which characterized the Baroque period
Cubism (1906-1914)
softened into light, air, and desire. Paintings of this era
were no longer strong and powerful, but light and Beginning with two artists, Pablo Picasso and Georges
playful. Braque, the Cubist movement was all about
fragmentation, geometric shapes, and multiple
Classicism (1770-1840)
perspectives. The dimensional planes of everyday
The art created in the Classicism era reverted to strict objects were broken down into different geometric
forms, two-dimensional colors, and human figures. segments and put back together in a way that
The tone of these paintings was undoubtedly strict. presented the object from multiple sides
Colors lost their symbolism. The art produced in simultaneously.
internationally this to era was used instill feelings of
Futurism (1909-1945)
patriotism in the people of each nation. Parts of
Classicism include Louis-Siexe, Empire, and Futurism is less of an artistic style and more of an
Biedermeier. movement. Marinetti's artistically Founded Futurist
inspired political by Tommaso Manifesto, which
Romanticism (1790-1850)
rejected social organization and Christian morality, the
The nature of Romanticism may be approached from Futurist era was full of chaos, hostility, aggression, and
the primary importance of the free expression of the anger.
feelings of the artist. To express these feelings, it was
Dadaism (1912-1920)
considered that content of art had to come from the
imagination of the artist, with as little interference as Dada means a great many things and nothing at all.
possible From "artificial" rules dictating what a work The Dadaism movement is based on the concepts of
should consist of. illogic and provocation and was seen as not only an art
movement, but an anti- war movement.
Realism (1850-1925)
Surrealism (1920-1930)
Generally the attempt to represent subject matter
truthfully, without artificiality and avoiding speculative Surrealism is fundamentally psychoanalytical, and
and supernatural elements. A style meaning the many Surrealist artists would paint directly from their
honest, unidealizing depiction of the subject, can be dreams. Sometimes dealing with uncomfortable
used in depicting any type of subject, without any concepts, hidden desires, and taboos, Surrealism was
commitment to treating the typical or everyday. a direct critique of the ingrained ideas and beliefs of
the bourgeoise. As you can imagine, this style of art
Impressionism (1850-1895)
was not popular when it began, but it has greatly
A 19th-century art movement characterized by influenced the world of modern art.
relatively small, thin, yet visible brush strokes, open
The New Objectivity (1925-1965)
composition, emphasis on accurate depiction of light
in its changing qualities (often accentuating the effects The images represented in New Objectivity were often
of the passage of time), ordinary subject matter, cold, unemotional, and technical, with some favorite
unusual visual angles, and inclusion of movement as a subjects being the radio and lightbulbs.
crucial element of human perception and experience.
Pop-Art (1955-1969)
Symbolism (1890-1920)
For the artists of Pop-Art, everything in the world was
Largely a reaction against naturalism and realism, anti- art. From advertisements, tin cans, toothpaste, and
idealistic styles which were attempts to represent toilets, everything is art. Pop-Art developed
reality in its gritty particularity, and to elevate the simultaneously in the United States and England and is
humble and the ordinary over the ideal. Symbolism characterized by uniform blocks of color and clear lines
was a reaction in favour of spirituality, the imagination, and contours. Painting and graphic art became
and dreams. influenced photorealism and serial prints. by
Expressionism (1890-1914) Neo-Expressionism (1980-1989)
Artistic style in which the artist seeks to depict not Developed as a reaction against conceptual art and
objective reality but rather the subjective emotions minimal art of the 1970s. Neo-expressionists returned
to portraying recognizable objects, such as the human delve into our own experiences and nostalgia, thus a
body (although sometimes in an abstract manner), in a piece of art means something different to every person
rough and violently emotional way, often using vivid that comes across it. Art appreciation helps open up
colors. the mindset of the people, by listening to different
perspective es and views as well as interpretations of
Emerged with large-format representational and life
the art, it encourages thoughtful conversation and the
affirming paintings.
understanding that there is more than one approach to
Art is a fundamental part of what it means to be everything.
human. Many of the troubles and joys we experience
Expression
can only be captured accurately through artistic
expression. We hope that this short summary of the art It is the ability to convey meaning. It involves low level
periods timeline has helped you gain some more skills such as spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and
insight into the contexts surrounding some of the most grammar, but also high level composition skills such as
famous works of art created by the human race. planning, organization, determining content, and
revision to express information effectively. Today's
society is going through challenging times across the
Creativity, Imagination and Expression globe and art has contributed into a reaction towards
local, as well as national and international issues. With
ART APPRECIATION a range of talent, artists are painting ideas that many
choose to ignore, using their art as their voice to react
The term art encompasses a large variety of works,
to the injustices they see in this world.
from paintings to sculptures, architecture to design,
and in modern times, digital art. Everyone can Within its nature, art has no rules. There are no
appreciate and marvel at art, and being subjective in guidelines to express yourself. Art is meant to be the
nature, different art forms appeal to different people. way the artist wants it to be, and art could be a
Art appreciation is defined as follows: reaction to outrage to established systems. But just
because art could be a reaction to what's going on,
 Art appreciation is the knowledge and
does not mean it has to be. Different artists have
understanding of the universal and timeless
different stories to tell and different ideas to get across
qualities that identify all great art. The more you
through their art.
appreciate and understand the art of different eras,
movements, styles and techniques, the better you Art is controversial yet peaceful, simple yet bold. No
can develop, evaluate and improve your own matter what form art is manifested - be it through a
artwork. painting, dance or music - it is up to the artist to
 Art appreciation refers to the exploration and choose how they express themselves, what
analysis of the art forms that we are exposed to. It expressions they'll share, and which ones they will
can be highly subjective, depending on an keep to themselves.
individuals' personal tastes and preferences, or
can be done on the basis of several grounds such Imagination
as elements of design and mastery displayed in the
It is the ability to produce and simulate novel objects,
piece.
peoples and ideas in the mind without any immediate
 Art appreciation involves a deeper look into the
input of the senses. Imagination is the ability to form a
setting and historical implication and background
mental image of something that is not perceived
of the piece, a study of its origins.
through the five senses. It is the ability of the mind to
Why Art Appreciation is Important? build mental scenes, objects or events that do not
exist, are not present, or have happened in the past.
Art appreciation is extremely relevant for multiple Imagination manifests in various degrees in different
reasons. It is a good way to understand the history people.
behind the work, and the period from which the piece
originated. Artists often reflect the problems that they It is also described as the forming of experiences in
face, and the issues of the society in their work. By one's mind, which can be re-creations of past
analyzing and putting ourselves in the mind of the experiences such as vivid memories with imagined
artist, we can better study how differently society changes, or they can be completely invented and
functioned then, compared to now. We can empathize possibly fantastic scenes.
and relate to the problems they faced on a personal
Imagination is a cognitive process used in mental
level.
functioning and sometimes used in conjunction with
Art is meant to stimulate thought and conversation psychological imagery. It is considered as such
between its viewers. By reflecting on a piece of art, we because it involves thinking about possibilities.
Imagination, however, is not considered to be
exclusively a cognitive activity because it is also linked An artist is the maker of the art and must be creative.
to the body and place, particularly that it also involves Being a creative artist requires knowledge in using the
setting up relationships with materials and people, imagination to explore innovative ideas, materials and
precluding the sense that imagination is locked away tools applicable to any art form making
in the head.
ART APPRECIATION AS A WAY OF LIFE
Creativity
Each artwork beholds beauty in its own kind, the kind
It is a phenomenon whereby something new and that the artist sees and wants the viewers to perceive.
somehow valuable is formed. The created item may be
 Appreciating artworks allows to deeply understand
intangible (such as an idea, a scientific theory, a
the purpose and recognition of its beauty it
musical composition, or a joke) or a physical object
possesses.
(such as an invention, a printed literary work, or a
 Cultivating its appreciation makes one to make
painting)
intelligent choices and decisions in acquiring
Creativity can be matched with imagination: for finding necessities and luxuries for better value of money
solutions and choosing between options. It can be or time.
applied in different aspects of human activities such as  Rewarding experience for meaningful life
in culinary arts such as being creative in presenting  More often than not, people are blind to this
baked products and interior designing or in simply beauty and only those who have developed a fine
rearranging something that can make room for more sense of appreciation can experience and see the
space in the house such as where to build some art the way the artist did.
storage areas.  Hence, refining one's ability to appreciate arts
allows him to deeply understand the purpose of an
Creativity can also be equated with innovation.
artwork and recognize the beauty it possesses.
Innovation in its modern meaning is "a new idea,
creative thoughts, and new imaginations in form of THE ROLE OF CREATIVITY IN ART MAKING
device or method". Innovation is often also viewed as
 Creativity requires thinking outside the box.
the application of better solutions that meet new
 ln art, creativity is what sets apart one artwork
requirements, unarticulated needs, or existing market
from another.
needs. The process of translating an idea or invention
into a good or service that creates value or for which When can we say that something is creative?
customers will pay. To be called an innovation, an idea
must be replicable at an economical cost and must  When we have not seen anything like
satisfy a specific need.  When it is out of the ordinary
 When it is not just a copy or imitation of someone's
Materials: Coach work
ART APPRECIATION ART AS A PRODUCT OF IMAGINATION, IMAGINATION
AS A PRODUCT OF ART
The knowledge and understanding of the universal and
timeless qualities that identify all great art and simply "Imagination is more important than knowledge. For
deals with learning or understanding and creating arts knowledge is limited to all we now know and
and enjoying. understand, while imagination embraces the entire
world, and all there ever will be to know and
Appreciation - giving value to, increase the worth of;
understand." - Albert Einstein
understand and recognize good qualities of
 ln artist's mind sits a vast gallery of artworks
IMPORTANCE OF ART APPRECIATION
 An artwork does not need to be a real thing, but
Every person is born with the innate desire to create can be something that is imaginary.
art, and similar to other professions, training is  However, something imaginary does not
essential in honing skills to produce art. Art education necessarily mean it cannot be called art. Artists use
broadens a person's comprehension, development, their imagination that gives birth to reality through
and visions of art. Art brings an understanding of creation.
diversity, how people lived in the past, and connects  ln the same way that imagination produces art, art
the issues concerning contemporary life and art today. also inspires imagination.

CREATIVITY ART AS EXPRESSION

According to Webster's, it is the ability to create and "What an artist does to an emotion is not to induce it,
the quality of being creative. but express it. Through expression, he is able to
explore his own emotions and at the same time, create
CREATIVITY IN ART
something beautiful out of them." - Robin George FREEHAND- the ability to draw something without
Collingwood depending on instruments or something else to
draw
 Expressing emotions is different from describing
2. Mechanical lines can express a rigid control.
emotions.
Mechanical Drawing- combinations of straight lines
 This makes people's art not a reflection of what is
and curved lines that show the edges and surfaces
outside or external to them, but a reflection of their
of an object.
inner selves.
3. Continuous lines can lead the eye in certain
directions.
It is one in which a single, unbroken line is used to
Visual Elements of Arts and Designs develop the image.
4. Broken lines can express the ephemeral or the
THE VISUAL ELEMENTS OF ART
insubstantial.
The Visual Elements are Line - Shape - Tone - Color - 5. Thick lines can express strength. (6) Thin lines can
Pattern - Texture - Form. These are the building blocks express delicacy.
of composition in art. When we analyze any drawing,
SHAPE can be natural or man-made, regular or
painting, sculpture or design, we examine these
irregular, flat (2-dimensional) or solid (3- dimensional),
component parts to see how they combine to create
representational or abstract, geometric or organic,
the overall effect of the artwork.
transparent or opaque, positive or negative, decorative
The Visual Elements have a relationship to one or symbolic, colored, patterned or textured.
another:
The Perspective of Shapes/ Perspective drawing:
1. Most images begin their life as line drawings. The angles and curves of shapes appear to change
2. Lines cross over one another to form shapes. depending on our viewpoint. The technique used to
3. Shapes can be filled with tone and color, or describe this change is called perspective drawing.
repeated to create pattern.
The Behavior of Shapes are as follows:
4. A shape may be rendered with a rough surface to
create a texture. 1. Shapes can be used to control your feelings in the
5. A shape may be projected into three dimensions to composition of an artwork.
create form. 2. Squares and Rectangles can portray strength and
stability.
Each of the elements may also be used individually to
3. Circles and Ellipses can represent continuous
stress their own particular character in an artwork.
movement.
Different elements can express qualities such as
4. Triangles can lead the eye in an upward
movement and rhythm, space and depth, growth and
movement.
structure, harmony and contrast, noise and calm and a
5. Inverted Triangles can create a sense of imbalance
wide range of emotions that make up the subjects of
and tension.
great art.
TONE is the lightness or darkness of a color. The tonal
LINE is the foundation of all drawing. It is the first and
values of an artwork can be adjusted to alter its
most versatile of the visual elements of art. Line in an
expressive character. It can be used to create (1) a
artwork can be used in many different ways. It can be
contrast of light and dark, (2) the illusion of form, (3) a
used to suggest shape, pattern, form, structure,
dramatic or tranquil atmosphere, (4) a sense of depth
growth, depth, distance, rhythm, movement and a
and distance and (5) a rhythm or pattern within a
range of emotions.
composition.
There is a psychological response to different types of
COLOR is the visual element that has the strongest
lines such as:
effect on our emotions. We use color to create the
1. Curved lines suggest comfort and ease. mood or atmosphere of an artwork. There are many
2. Horizontal lines suggest distance and calm. different approaches to the use of color such as light,
3. Vertical lines suggest height and strength. tone, pattern, form, symbol, movement, harmony,
4. Jagged lines suggest turmoil and anxiety. contrast and mood.

The way we draw a line can convey different expressive PATTERN is made by repeating or echoing the
qualities: elements of an artwork to communicate a sense of
balance, harmony, contrast, rhythm or movement.
1. Freehand lines can express the personal energy
and mood of the artist. There are two basic types of pattern in art: Natural
Pattern and Man-Made Pattern. Both natural and man-
made patterns can be regular or irregular, organic or
geometric, structural or decorative, positive or recently the CAD process of 3D printing has been
negative and repeating or random. added to the list of sculptural processes.
 Two-Dimensional Form constructs the illusion of
 Natural Pattern: Pattern in art is often based on the
3D in 2D media by a skillful manipulation of the
inspiration we get from observing the natural
visual elements. Perspective drawing, trompe l'oeil
patterns that occur in nature. We can see these in
[1], 3D computer graphics programs and
the shape of a leaf and the branches of a tree, the
holograms are examples of 2D form.
structure of a crystal, the spiral of a shell, the
symmetry of a snowflake and the camouflage and
signaling patterns on animals, fish and insects.
Principles of Arts
 Man-Made Pattern: Pattern in art is used for both
structural and decorative purposes. For example, THE PRINCIPLES OF ART
an artist may plan the basic structure of an artwork
by creating a compositional pattern of lines and The principles of art (or the principles of design) are
shapes. Within that composition he/she may essentially a set of criteria which are used to explain
develop its visual elements to create a more how the visual elements are arranged in a work of art.
decorative pattern of color, tone and texture These principles are possibly the closest thing we have
across the work. to a set of objective criteria for analyzing and judging
art.
TEXTURE is the surface quality of an artwork - the
roughness or smoothness of the material from which it Art is a notoriously gray area when it comes objectively
is made. We experience texture in two ways: optically defining what is great and what is not. An artist of one
(through sight) and physically (through touch). era may be mocked during his lifetime, yet revered
after his passing (such as Vincent van Gogh). The
 Optical Texture: An artist may use his/her skillful principles of art help combat this gray area to some
painting technique to create the illusion of texture. extent. They allow us to communicate what makes a
For example, in the detail from a traditional Dutch great painting great with an element of objectivity and
still life above you can see remarkable consistency.
verisimilitude (the appearance of being real) in the
painted insects and drops of moisture on the silky 1. Balance refers to the visual weight of the elements
surface of the flower petals. of the composition. It is a sense that the painting
 Physical Texture: An artist may paint with feels stable and "feels right." Imbalance causes a
expressive brushstrokes whose texture conveys the feeling of discomfort in the viewer.
physical and emotional energy of both the artist Balance can be achieved in 3 different ways:
and his/her subject. They may also use the natural Symmetry, in which both sides of a composition
texture of their materials to suggest their own have the same elements in the same position, as in
unique qualities such as the grain of wood, the a mirror-image, or the two sides of a face.
grittiness of sand, the flaking of rust, the Asymmetry, in which the composition is balanced
coarseness of cloth and the smear of paint. due to the contrast of any of the elements of art.
(Actual/Tactile texture): can be felt by touching the For example, a large circle on one side of a
surface of the object or material. composition might be balanced by a small square
 Ephemeral Texture: This is a third category of on the other side
textures whose fleeting forms are subject to Radial symmetry, in which elements are equally
change like clouds, smoke, flames, bubbles and spaced around a central point, as in the spokes
liquids. coming out of the hub of a bicycle tire.
2. Contrast is the difference between elements of art
FORM is the physical volume of a shape and the space in a composition, such that each element is made
that it occupies. It can be representational or abstract. stronger in relation to the other. When placed next
Form generally refers to sculpture, 3D design and to each other, contrasting elements command the
architecture but may also relate to the illusion of 3D on viewer's attention. Areas of contrast are among the
a 2D surface. first places that a viewer's eye is drawn. Contrast
can be achieved by juxtapositions of any of the
 Three-Dimensional Form can be modelled (added
elements of art. Negative/Positive space is an
form), carved (subtracted form) and constructed
example of contrast. Complementary colors placed
(built form). It can be created from sculptural
side by side is an example of contrast. Notan (light
materials like clay, wax, plaster, wood, stone,
and dark harmony) is an example of contrast.
concrete, cast and constructed metal, plastics,
3. Emphasis is when the artist creates an area of the
resins, glass and mixed media. It may also be
composition that is visually dominant and
kinetic, involving light and movement generated
commands the viewer's attention. This is often
by natural, mechanical and electronic means. More
achieved by contrast.
4. Movement is the result of using the elements of art
such that they move the viewer's eye around and
within the image. A sense of movement can be
created by diagonal or curvy lines, either real or
implied, by edges, by the illusion of space, by
repetition, by energetic mark-making.
5. Pattern is the uniform repetition of any of the
Mediums and Techniques in Art
elements of art or any combination thereof.
Anything can be turned into a pattern through WHAT IS A MEDIUM IN ART?
repetition. Some classic patterns are spirals, grids,
weaves. For examples of different pattern types see According to the Oxford English Dictionary, from an
the Artlandia Glossary of Pattern Design. A popular artistic point of view 'Medium' refers to "any raw
drawing practice is Zentangles, in which an material or mode of expression used in an artistic or
abstract or representational outline is divided into creative activity". Generally speaking, it is the 'mode of
different areas, each of which contains a unique expression' used to create an artwork. Whether we are
pattern. talking about painting, drawing, sculpting, printing or
6. Rhythm is created by movement implied through writing - the means the artist employs is the 'Medium'.
the repetition of elements of art in a non-uniform
A medium is the material that is used to create the
but organized way. It is related to rhythm in music.
actual work of art. Common mediums in art are oil,
Unlike pattern, which demands consistency,
watercolor and acrylic paint, clay for sculpture and
rhythm relies on variety.
paper for collage. Different materials have different
7. Unity/Variety You want your painting to feel unified
properties, reflect light differently, and move
such that all the elements fit together comfortably.
differently. The use of various media allows for more
Too much unity creates monotony, too much
artistic expression because it adds another channel of
variety creates chaos. You need both. Ideally, you
expression to the artists.
want areas of interest in your composition along
with places for your eye to rest. Different Types of Art Mediums
8. Harmony is a bit vague compared to some of the
other principles. Generally speaking, it refers to Acrylic - An acrylic painting is done with acrylic paint,
how well all the visual elements work together in a the paints made from the synthetic resin and have low
work of art. Elements which are in harmony should odor. It is one of the best mediums for art because it
have some kind of logical progression or can be applied in many different ways. It offers
relationship. If there is an element which is not in versatility to experiment with many styles, techniques
harmony with the rest of an artwork, it should and types of paint. It is an ideal painting medium for
stick- out and be jarring to look at. Kind of like an beginners. Being water based, it dries quickly saving
off-note in a song. time and can be used in wet on wet style techniques of
painting. It can also be thinned with water up to a
point. Acrylic painting requires less brushes than oil
paints and also has a huge range of colors.

Chalk - A piece of chalk is a stick of compressed

mineral pigment and clay that is composed to such a
fine degree that particles are nearly invisible. One can
perceive the shape and texture of chalk by rubbing it
between ones fingers. It's important to note that the
impression comes from the physical and chemical
makeup of the pigment. Artists have been using chalk
in their drawings and paintings for centuries. Even
nowadays, chalk has evolved into a number of
different varieties that present unique textures and
colors.

Charcoal - Charcoal is a soft, black, brittle stick made of

burnt wood. It makes marks on paper or canvas similar
to graphite but has a warmer appearance. Charcoal is
one of the most commonly used drawing mediums. It
has been around for thousands and thousands of
years, as it has been used by cave painters (in fact the
word charcoal is derived from the Greek word
karabbak meaning carrier or coal). Charcoal has been
used since ancient times for drawing or sketching Tempera - Tempera paint is made by mixing dry
because of its softness, blackness and ability to make pigments with an egg based binder. It is painted on a
lines of varying degrees of thickness. Ancient Egyptians panel (usually made of wood) with an absorbent,
used the material in making hieroglyphics and Greeks usually linen or canvas, ground. Tempera paint was
used it in the outline drawings that served as models used for the vast majority of paintings before the 16th
for sculptures. century and its heyday was the Renaissance when it
was further developed as an oil alternative.
Colored Pencils - A colored pencil is a medium in which
artists create realistic or abstract images that combine Tempera paint is one of the oldest medium in the
color with the properties of graphite, a form of mineral history of painting, dating back to the ancient Greeks.
based pencil lead. Its use is essentially the same as It is made from mixing three main ingredients: water,
with graphite pencil or stylus tools such as a brush or pigments and ground chalk.
other drawing implement are often used when creating
Watercolors - Watercolor is a wet painting technique.
fine art pieces.
When working in watercolor, the artist makes use of
Graphite Pencils - Graphite pencils can be used in a the fact that water will dissolve and disperse pigment,
variety of ways. They can create thin and thick lines but will not dissolve paper. Painting pigment with
depending on the amount of pressure you apply while water produces something magical: colors that change
drawing. Graphite pencils are used to create a wide as they dry. These changes in color are called
range of media. From self-portrait studies to realistic luminosity and this is what makes watercolors so richly
reproductions, the detail and shading that a quality expressive. Watercolor is the most sensitive and
graphite pencil is capable of displaying is enormous. responsive of all mediums.
It's fine texture and soft nature allows for the artists
Techniques of visual arts
medium to be transformed into an array of natural
colors, soaked upon and blended with layered strokes. Techniques means a process, or a method of using the
medium in a manner that he wishes to finish an art
Oil Paint - Oil paints are made from a base of drying oil
work
such as ground linseed, poppy seed and walnut being
the most common form of pigment. Its physical Blowing techniques - Blowing techniques requires
characteristics give them an amazing range on how it pushing in air to spread paints, spread molten crayons
can be used. Acrylics dry quicker than oil, but don't on paper or shaped molten glass by the use of electric
offer much flexibility in working methods. Oil paints hair blowers.
are the best medium for creating works of art.
Transfer design - Transferring design requires a design
Oil Pastels - Oil pastels are great for sketching, drawing in another medium and it will be transferred to another
and painting - they are often used on their own, or medium such as Xerox copy to boards or another paper
mixed with watercolors, gouache, acrylics. Oil pastels by applying acetone and pressure from burnishing
have a combination of properties which makes them stick. Designs can be transferred to metal or wood or
very versatile. They are made of pigment suspended in textile.
oil and wax, so you can blend colors together like you
do with watercolor paints. Oil pastels are good for Tinkering - The act of repair or invention. It expresses
building up layers (just like watercolor paints). the creation and understanding of concepts in the
mind while tinkering with the hands. When we
Pen and Ink - A pen and ink drawing is a work of art in physically engage with things, especially with our
which the artwork is created using a pen and ink. The hands, we generate a great variety of sensory images.
most traditional mediums of creating pen and ink
drawings are the dip pen and the calligraphy pen. Pen Splattering - "Splatter painting" refers to a set of
and ink are professional grade drawing tools normally techniques for using brushes and other implements to
used for line work and tonal drawings. These are used flick, throw, or drip paint onto a painting surface
extensively by architectural firms for making mock up instead of painting with brushes to create original
drawings of how a building may look. abstract art. Unlike other types of visual art, splatter
painting it celebrates spontaneity, improvisation, and
Soft Pastels - A soft pastel is a medium composed of a a highly physical approach to making art, so it requires
tiny pigment and binder on a stick. It is combined with no formal training.
water- soluble gum arabic to allow it to adhere to the
paper. Soft pastels provide a rich velvety matte surface Throwing - In pottery, throwing means making a pot
and are capable of great subtlety. Due to their softness, from a piece of clay on a potter's wheel. Throwing Is
they blend very well and are much harder (physically) the whole process of shaping the clay on the potter's
than most pencils, making them a good substitute for wheel. From the preparation of clay, wedging the clay
watercolors for some applications. to dissipate the air pockets, centering it on wheel,
opening the clay in the center, a making a desired
object out of the potter's wheel, and giving it final The Order of National Artists (Orden ng Pambansang
touches. Alagad ng Sining) is the highest national recognition
given to Filipino individuals who have made significant
Coloring - Coloring is the most basic in art. It requires
contributions to the development of Philippine arts;
the use of colors applied to drawings of sketches or
namely, Music, Dance, Theater, Visual Arts, Literature,
you may start with colors right away.
Film, Broadcast Arts, and Architecture and Allied Arts.
Flowing - This techniques is done by mixing paints in The order is jointly administered by the National
the cup and flip it on the canvas, pull the cup off and Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the
the paint will flow all over the canvas. The result Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and conferred
depends on the variety of colors used. by the President of the Philippines upon
recommendation by both institutions.
Cutting - Papercutting is the art of paper designs. The
art has evolved uniquely all over the world to adapt to Criteria to be a National Artist
different cultural styles. One traditional distinction
Nominations for National Artist of the Philippines are
most styles share in common is that the designs are cut
based on a broad criteria, as set forth by the Cultural
from a single sheet of paper as opposed to multiple
Center of the Philippines and the National Commission
adjoining sheets as in collage
on Culture and the Arts:
Scratching - Scratch Art is a graphic technique. It is
1. Living artists who have been Filipino citizens for
used to create value drawings. Most common is a
the last ten years prior to nomination as well as
black-and-white technique. Also popular are metallic
those who have died after the establishment of the
backgrounds - they make a drawing look like etching.
award in 1972 but were Filipino citizens at the time
Scratch board is a paper (or foil) board that is covered
of their death;
with wax or gesso and coated over with black ink.
2. Artists who have helped build a Filipino sense of
Engraving - Engraving is a printmaking technique that nationhood through the content and form of their
involves making incisions into a metal plate which works;
retain the ink and form the printed image. The design 3. Artists who have distinguished themselves by
is manually incised into an engraving plate using a pioneering in a mode of creative expression or
burin, an engraving tool like a very fine chisel with a style, making an impact on succeeding generations
lozenge-shaped tip. of artists;
4. Artists who have created a significant body of
Photography - is an actual likeness of the design, it works and/or have consistently displayed
uses a camera to produce the desired copy. Literally excellence in the practice of their art form,
drawing or writing with light. enriching artistic expression or style; and 5. Artists
who enjoy broad acceptance through prestigious
Etching techniques - Etching, a method of making
national and/or international recognition, awards
prints from a metal plate, usually copper, into which
in prestigious national and/or international events,
the design has been incised by acid. The copperplate is
critical acclaim and/or reviews of their works
first coated with an acid-resistant substance, called the
and/or respect and esteem from peers within an
etching ground, through which the design is drawn
artistic discipline.
with a sharp tool. In etching, the plate can be made of
iron, copper, or zinc. To prepare the plate for etching, it Nominations are then submitted to the National Artist
is first polished to remove all scratches and Secretariat that is created by the National Artist Award
imperfections from the surface. Committee; experts from the different art fields then sit
on a First Deliberation to prepare the short list of
Printing - Printmaking is the process of creating
nominees. A Second Deliberation, which is a joint
artworks by printing, normally on paper, textiles,
meeting of the Commissioners of the NCCA and the
boards or metal plates. It covers only the process of
Board of Trustees of the CCP, decides on the final
creating prints that have an element of originality,
nominees. The list is then forwarded to the President
rather than just being a photographic reproduction of
of the Philippines, who, by Presidential Proclamation,
a painting. In art this means reproduction. A single
proclaims the final nominees as members of the Order
design is made to be multiplied. Nowadays printing is a
of National Artists.
popular as painting and sculpture.
Artist

An artist is a person who performs any of the creative

National Artists, Artisans, Curators, Collectors
arts. This captures all forms of art. For an example, a
NATIONAL ARTISTS person who paints can be referred to as an artist. In the
modern world, the term artist is also used for
musicians as well. This is why people often tend to
hear the words young artist,' through media to refer to An Art Curator is responsible for implementing and
emerging musicians. Here it is important to highlight managing art exhibitions and collections, typically at
that the term artist is not only attributed for those who museums, by collecting, organizing, evaluating and
create art as an occupation, but also for those who are cataloging arts, collectibles and historical items.
skilled in a particular activity such as drawing, Curators interpret a museum's mission and collection
designing, composing, etc. for the viewing public. They organize temporary
exhibitions and arrange for traveling shows that
Artisan
enhance or extend the primary mission. They decide
An artisan is a skilled worker who makes things by how the art will be shown in the galleries. Good or
hand. This includes various objects ranging from Great art curator typically have very well curated show
jewelry to furniture. An artisan should not be confused to guide thru contemporary or modern works shown at
with an artist because there is a clear difference in the particular exhibitions. This is also what top end gallery
things that they create. An artisan is able to produce and other gallery set a part.
something that has a functional value; although it
Education, Training, and Certification of a Curator
should not be limited to its use value alone. However,
it must be stressed that there are cases where the A bachelor's degree in art, history, archaeology,
objects created by an artisan has only decorative museum studies or a related field is the minimum
value. education requirement for museum curators.
Preference is often given to applicants who have a
The Differences between Artist and Artisan
master's degree and/or 4-5 years of work experience.
The words artist and artisan are often very confusing While most curator positions require a master's degree
for most people although there is a key difference in art history or museology, smaller galleries may only
between the two words. An artist is a person who require a bachelor's degree in art or art history. Larger
performs any of the creative arts. This can range from organizations typically require a master's or doctorate
painting to music. An artisan, on the other hand, is a in art or art history. Most curators of contemporary art
skilled worker who makes things by hand. The mere have a master's degree at most, since a degree in art
definition of the two words can be rather confusing history doesn't necessarily help when you're
because both involve the creation of something. The organizing newly- created works. Curators of historic
key difference is that while the product or output of an art, on the other hand, usually need a PhD in art history
artisan has a clear functional value, this may not be the to really move up the ranks in a museum.
cased for an artist. The output can be an expression of
To become a curator at a national museum, a PhD is
the beauty of art itself without having any functional
required, as is about five years of field experience. The
value. Through this article, let us examine the
market is competitive, and academic standards are
differences between an artist and an artisan.
very high. Useful graduate degrees include restoration
 Artistic Value: science, curatorship, art history, history, chemistry,
Artist: The object has a clear artistic value. and business administration.
For Artisan: The object has an artistic value.
What does an art collector do?
 Functional Value:
Artist: The object has no functional value. Art Collecting is for Everyone! Any individual who owns
For Artisan: The object has a functional value. as few as two or three paintings is considered to be an
 Object: art collector. Art collectors can choose to select
Artist: The object has a lot of aesthetic value and is artwork by artist name, art style, subject theme, or any
appreciated for this quality as it pleases the kind of piece that strikes their fancy. How you collect
individual. the artwork is really up to you.
For Artisan: The object though utilitarian has
certain aesthetic attributes to it.
Film Review: (Aamir Khan: Taare Zameen
Curator, Conservator and Art Collector
Par)
The curator, who is often an administrator in the
Taare Zameen Par (Every Child is Special)
museum, also guides conservators. Conservators, on
the other hand, only manage the items and how should This movie is about a student with Dyslexia Dyslexia is
they be preserved. Curators research about the item or a specific learning disorder that involves difficulty
the collection itself while conservators are reading. Dyslexia is a disorder present at birth and
knowledgeable about techniques for preservation cannot be prevented or cured, but it can be managed
with special instruction and support. Early intervention
The Role Of An Art Curator
to address reading problems is important.
Most people think that dyslexia causes people to emotionally. Ram, his teachers and family was so
reverse letters and numbers and see words backwards. proud of him.
This makes it hard to recognize short, familiar words or
FILM REVIEW
to sound out longer words. It takes a lot of time for a
person with dyslexia to sound out a word. Whether a movie is a rotten tomato or a brilliant work
of art, if people are watching it, it's worth critiquing. A
Dyslexia is treated using specific educational
decent movie review should entertain, persuade and
approaches and techniques, and the sooner the
inform providing an original opinion without giving
intervention begins, the better. Psychological testing
away too much of the plot. A great movie review can be
will help your child's teachers develop a suitable
a work of art in its own right. Read on to learn how to
teaching program. Teachers may use techniques
analyze a movie like a professional film critic, come up
involving hearing, vision and touch to improve reading
with an interesting thesis, and write a review as
skills
entertaining as your source material.
Synopsis of the movie "Every Child is Special"
1. Start with a compelling fact or opinion on the
The movie is about a young boy named Ishaan who movie. You want to get the reader hooked
isn't doing well in school. He constantly have failing immediately. This sentence needs to give them a
grades and doesn't seem to answer questions or feel for your review and the movie - is it good great,
examinations correctly. He is perceived as lazy and a terrible, or just okay? - and keep them reading.
trouble maker. He is usually caught by his teacher day 2. Give a clear, well-established opinion early on.
dreaming in class, and when one time he was asked to Don't leave the reader guessing whether you like
read, he wasn't able to do so, and said that the letters the movie or not. Let them know early on, so that
were "dancing". This made his classmates laugh at him you can spend the rest of the time "proving" your
and his teacher sent him out as punishment. rating.
3. Support your opinions with evidence from specific
Ishaan's academic performance is very poor but he is a
scenes. This is where taking notes during the movie
gifted child with artistic talents. At home you can see
really pays off. It's hard to sway other people with
all his creative artworks. He is very talented in drawing
your opinion if you can't give facts that support
and painting. One day, he had cut his classes and went
your argument.
roaming around town all alone. He wandered the
4. Create an original thesis based on your analysis.
streets by himself. He loved it so much that he
Now that you've thoroughly studied the movie,
convinced his older brother to write him an excuse
what unique insights can you bring to the table?
letter, so he could give it to his teacher. His father
Come up with a thesis, a central idea to discuss
found out about it and got really mad. He decided to
and back up with your observations on the various
enroll Ishaan to another school, an all-boys boarding
elements of the film. Your thesis should be
school. This to discipline him, but this didn't help the
discussed in the first paragraph of your review.
poor kid. Instead it made him lonelier and sadder. His
Having a thesis will take your review beyond the
academic performance did not improve as well. He still
plot summary stage and into the realm of film
experience the same things in his previous school -
criticism, which is rightfully its own art form
scolding from his teachers and bullying from his
5. Gather basic facts about the movie. You can do this
classmates. This affected him so much.
before or after you watch the movie, but you
During Ishaan's art class they were asked to paint, but should definitely do it before you write the review,
he didn't do anything. He got uninspired because of because you'll need to weave the facts into your
the things that happened to him. This caught the review as you write. Here's what you need to know:
attention of Ishaan's art teacher, Ram Shankar a. The title of the film, and the year it came
Nikumbh. He got curious as to what is happening to out.
Ishaan. Ram observed him, looked through his b. The director's name.
notebooks and thought that Ishaan might have c. The names of the lead actors.
dyslexia - a reading disorder, characterized by trouble d. The genre.
with reading despite normal intelligence. Ram visited 6. Take notes on the movie as you watch it. Before
Ishaan's house and there he let Ishaan's family know you sit down to watch a film, get out a notepad or a
about his condition. Ram also discovered that Ishaan laptop to take notes Movies are long, and you can
was talented artistically. Back at school, he patiently easily forget details or major plot points.
helped Ishaan with his reading disorder and learning 7. Analyze the mechanics of the movie. Analyze the
difficulties. Eventually, Ishaan started to do good in his different components that came together in the
academics. He was able to read and write properly movie as you watch. During or after your viewing,
little by little. At the last part of the movie, there was an ask yourself what impression the movie left with
art competition and Ishaan won. He received his award you in these areas:
 a. Direction: Consider the director and how he Every Child is Special originally known as Taare
or she choose to portray/explain the events Zameen Par in Hindi film is a story about an 8 year-old
in the story. If the movie was slow, or didn't boy who has a different vision to the world. Ishaan
include things you thought were necessary, Awasthi son of Maya Awasthi and Nandkishore Awasthi
you can attribute this to the director. If whose world filled with wonders that no one else
you've seen other movies directed by the appreciates. The fishes, dogs, kites, and color
same person, compare them and determine especially drawings are the things he gave attention
which you like the most. that others cannot especially the adults. Adults would
b. Cinematography: What techniques were prefer to give more attention and interest to business,
used to film the movie? What setting and marks and neatness, homework's and school where
background elements helped to create a Ishaan cannot get and understand anything right.
certain tone?
Ishaan is very different from other children especially
c. Writing: Evaluate the script, including
to his brother Yohaan Awasthi who's always being
dialogue and characterization. Did you feel
compared by his father. When Ishaan get far more
like the plot was inventive and
trouble that his parents can't handle anymore, he was
unpredictable or boring and weak? Did the
forcedly sent to a boarding school to be disciplined.
characters' words seem credible to you?
But things are no different at his new school instead
d. Editing: Was the movie choppy or did it flow
Ishaan has struggle for the added trauma because of
smoothly from scene to scene? Did they
his separation from his family
incorporate a montage to help build the
story? And was this obstructive to the Ishaan's situation changes when a new art teacher
narrative or did it help it? Did they use long bursts onto the scene, Ram Shankar Nikumbh, who
cuts to help accentuate an actor's acting infects the students with joy and optimism. He breaks
ability or many reaction shots to show a all the rules of how things are done by asking them to
group's reaction to an event or dialogue? If think out of the box, dream and imagine, and all the
visual effects were used were the plates children respond with enthusiasm, all except Ishaan.
well-chosen and were the composited Nikumbh soon realizes that Ishaan is very unhappy. He
effects part of a seamless experience? reviews Ishaan's work and concludes that his academic
e. Costume design: Did the clothing choices fit shortcomings are indicative of dyslexia
the style of the movie? Did they contribute
to the overall tone, rather than digressing On his day off, Nikumbh visits Ishaan's parents and
from it? asks if he can see more of their son's work. Nikumbh
f. Set design: Consider how the setting of the describes dyslexia to them and explains that it is not a
film influenced its other elements. Did it sign of low intelligence. He tells them he can provide
add or subtract from the experience for extra tutoring that will help Ishaan, highlighting the
you? If the movie was filmed in a real place, boy's artistic ability evident in his many paintings and
was this location well-chosen? Score or other creative works. Nikumbh then visits the school's
soundtrack: Did it work with the scenes? principal and obtains his permission to become
Was it over/under-used? Was it Ishaan's tutor. He attempts to improve Ishaan's
suspenseful? Amusing? Imitating? A reading and writing by using remedial techniques
soundtrack can make or break a movie, developed by dyslexia specialists; Ishaan soon
especially if the songs have a particular develops an interest in language and mathematics,
message or meaning to them. and his grades improve. With time, patience and care,
8. Watch it one more time. It's impossible to fully Ishaan Awasthi an eight-year-old boy who dislikes
understand a movie you've only seen one time, school and fails every test or exam, finds all subjects
especially if you're pausing it often to take notes. difficult, belittled by his teachers and classmates,
Watch it at least once more before you compose internal world is rich with wonders that he is unable to
your review. Pay attention to details you might convey to others, and with magical lands filled with
have missed the first time. around. Pick new points color and animated animal, and an artist whose talent
of focus this time; if you took a lot of notes on the is unrecognized has already found himself. When
acting the first time you watched the movie, focus Ishaan's parents go to the boarding school, they are
on the cinematography the second time around left speechless by the transformation they saw in their
son, Ishaan.

Overcome with emotion, Ishaan's father thanks

Nikumbh for everything he'd done for his son.
EVERY CHILD IS SPECIAL

Important Criteria of Art

Criteria is defined as the plural form of criterion, the b. What thoughts or feelings come up when
standard by which something is judged or assessed. It you see this art piece?
means clear standards of anything. Example. Criteria c. Abstract works quite frequently require us
for judging art pieces, beauty contestants, or best to learn more about the context the work
acting awards. was created in (artist's life, time/place in
history) in order to better understand them.
The Purpose of Criteria
d. Express your opinion, but ALWAYS back it
The purpose of establishing criteria is to support a up with evidence.
structured decision-making process and ensure that 4. Judgement - Subjective. Requires thought on your
decisions made and alternatives selected support the part as Judge.
desired outcomes and actions, as well as the Core a. Finally, you can share personal thoughts
Values. based on previous steps.
b. Do you like it? Why?/Why not? Again use
The Criteria for Art solid evidence to support your opinion.
c. Is this piece effective? Is it saying what the
Artwork will be judged using the following criteria:
artist is trying to say?
uniqueness/originality, professional quality (neatness
d. Are you judging based on techniques or
and craft), aesthetic quality (design, composition, and
emotional content?
color/tones), concept, selection and application of
e. What criteria do you think are important
materials, and complexity/level of digital technology
when judging an art work?
used.
Supplemental Criteria of Art
The 4 steps in Art Criticism
BEAUTY IN ART - Some aspects of art that generally
Describe. Tell what you see (the visual facts) appeal to people are:

Analyze. Mentally separate the parts or elements, 1. Repeating shapes, patterns, and symmetry.
thinking in terms of textures, shapes/forms, light/dark 2. Colors, especially colors that complement or
or bright/dull colors, types of lines, and sensory enhance each other.
qualities. 3. Textures, both visual and physical (like thick,
impasto paint).
Interpret. Seeks to explain the meaning of the work. 4. Crops and compositions that focus the eye and
keep the viewers’ attention.
Judgment. Reject, accept, pass, failed
5. Movement or flow to guide viewers through the art.
Application of the 4 steps in art criticism are the 6. Correct or appealing proportions of figures and
following: objects.
7. Presentation and framing.
1. Description - Be 100% Objective. Think of facts.
a. What specific Elements of Art (color, line, SKILL & TECHNIQUE - Technical skill is the most
shape, texture, form, space, value) can you comparable and measurable aspect of art.
find within this art piece?
 First, compare the works to other art you’ve seen in
b. What's the title of the art work?
that medium before
c. Who is the artist?
 Second, look at all the artwork on display by the
d. When/where was it created?
artist.
e. What media was used?
 Third, look at each work of art itself. Are they
f. Is there a primary subject in the place?
individually consistent? Are there places where you
2. Analysis - Be 100% Objective/ Think of Facts
can see odd markings compared to another area
a. What Principles of Art (balance, emphasis,
within the same piece?
movement, pattern, repetition, proportion,
etc.) can you find within the art piece? INHERENT MEANING - Here are five levels of meaning in
b. How do the Elements of Art interact with art, which I’ve listed in order of increasing importance.
each other?
c. Are there interesting visual effects created? 1. Purely representational art – Made simply for
d. What specific element stand out in this visual appeal, with no deeper intent.
composition and why? 2. Art that references other art – It “tips its hat” to
e. Is there a focal point? How is the art work some other work, possibly providing a fresh
organized? perspective or continuing a conversation that
3. Interpretation - Subjective. Requires thought on another artist began.
your part as judge, find the following: 3. Art that tells a story, or evokes a specific emotion –
a. What is the artist trying to communicate? This is art that begins to affect you. It might cause
 you to understand, empathize or feel what’s being Painting: Perspectives and Textures
depicted.
PAINTING
4. Art that makes a statement – Here the artist is
clearly speaking through the work, actively Painting is the application of pigments to a support
promoting a cause or perhaps bringing attention to surface that establishes an image, design or
an issue that’s important to him or her. decoration. In art the term "painting" describes both
5. Art that is an allegory or metaphor – This is art that the act and the result. Most painting is created with
contains more than one meaning, and possibly pigment in liquid form and applied with a brush.
several. It uses symbolic imagery or deals with Exceptions to this are found in Navajo sand painting
more intangible human issues, and yet the artwork and Tibetan mandala painting, where powdered
should still work as a visually appealing creation. pigments are used. Painting as a medium has survived
for thousands of years and is, along with drawing and
UNIQUENESS - This is the aspect of art that relates to
sculpture, one of the oldest creative media. It's used in
not only what the artist is depicting but also how the
some form by cultures around the world.
artist is depicting it.
Three of the most recognizable images in Western art
FULFILLED INTENT - What is the artist trying to say? I
history are paintings: Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa,
hear this question a lot, and for the most part, there’s a
Edvard Munch's The Scream and Vincent van Gogh's
simple way to find out. If you’re at a gallery, read the
The Starry Night. These three art works are examples
artist’s statement.
of how painting can go beyond a simple mimetic
Concrete Artistic Concepts function, that is, to only imitate what is seen. The
power in great painting is that it transcends
Use of Space: A great work of art should have elements
perceptions to reflect emotional, psychological, even
of the artwork displayed in different regions of the
spiritual levels of the human condition.
artwork, but those elements must all be contributing
to the substance of the overall image. However, no PERSPECTIVES
individual element should so completely predominate
Perspective is an art technique for creating an illusion
the artwork as to overshadow all the other elements.
of three-dimensions (depth and space) on a two-
Use of Color: A work of art should use many different dimensional (flat) surface. Perspective is what makes a
combinations of colors and should not be overrun by painting seem to have form, distance, and look "real."
any one single color. The sky is normally blue in color, The same rules of perspective apply to all subjects,
and the leaves of trees are usually green during the whether it's a landscape, seascape, still life, interior
spring, but may contain elements of red, orange or scene, portrait, or figure painting.
yellow leaves during the autumn.
As one of the two terms used to define aspects of
Proportion/Dimension/Scale: When leaves are placed perspective in art, linear perspective is linked to the
on branches of a tree, they should not be the size of pie idea that objects of similar size appear smaller as the
plates. The leaves should reflect the size of what a leaf distance between the object and viewer increases. On
would look like when being objectively viewed by any the other hand, the effects that the atmosphere has
person looking at it. upon objects as they recede into the distance are
referred to as aerial perspective.
True to Form: The elements of an artwork should
closely resemble what they are intended to represent. Viewpoint in Perspective - Viewpoint is the spot (point)
A human being should not have two heads or three from which you, the artist, is looking at (viewing) the
arms but should instead appear exactly like real life scene. Linear perspective is worked out according to
characters in the world. Placing a mouth on a this viewpoint. There's no right or wrong choice of
character's forehead does not reflect reality. viewpoint, it's simply the first decision you make when
beginning to plan your composition and figure out the
Effected by the Environment: The scenes of artwork
perspective.
might convey the hot climate of summer or the cold
climate of winter. The characters interacting in the  Normal viewpoint is how an adult sees the world
artwork must reflect that characteristic of the climate. when standing up. When painting in a realistic
style, this is the viewpoint you'll probably use
Layering: When elements of an artwork are placed into
because it's what we're accustomed to seeing. It's
the scene, they should not be placed into boxes where
what looks most real.
one element does not touch with any other elements
 Low viewpoint is when you're looking at a scene
The elements should instead interact with each other
from much lower than you would standing up. For
and should be layered on top of each other.
instance, if you were sitting on a chair, had
crouched down onto your heels or, even lower
 down, sitting on the grass. Of course, it's also the 5. Finally end the drawing by sketching lines that will
level from which small children see the world. highlight or outline the path and roof.
 High viewpoint is when you're looking down on a 6. Ink over your drawing and you're done.
scene. You might be on a ladder, up a hill, on the
One-point perspective is usually used when the
balcony of a tall building.
object's front is facing the viewer. In this type of
The rules of perspective don't change between a drawing the horizontal and vertical lines will be
normal, low, or high viewpoint. The same rules apply in horizontal and vertical respectively in the drawing, and
all cases. What changes is what you see in a scene. The lines getting farther from the viewer will have an angle
rules of perspective help us interpret and understand towards what is called a "Vanishing Point."
what we're seeing, and enable us to "get it right" in a
One Point Perspective Procedures
painting.
1. Determine the horizon in your drawing.
The Horizon Line in Perspective - The horizon line is an
2. Choose the vanishing point.
imaginary line used to create accurate perspective in a
3. Sketch the main objects.
painting. Anything above the horizon line slopes down
4. Give detail to your drawing respecting the
towards it, and anything below the horizon line slopes
proportions dictated by the reference lines you
up towards it. Depending on what it is and how it is
sketched before.
positioned, this may be very obvious or it may be very
slight. Something that straddles the horizon line will Two-point Perspective - Two point perspective or
slope both up and down. The horizon line is important perspective with two vanishing points is used when the
because the painting's perspective is constructed from objects' corners are facing the viewer. This method is
this. perfect for drawing isometric objects.
Vanishing Lines in Perspective - Vanishing lines are Texture - Texture defines the surface quality of an
imaginary lines used to create accurate perspective in artwork - the roughness or smoothness of the material
a painting. They are drawn on the top and bottom from which it is made. We experience texture in two
horizontal edges of an object, along the object and ways: optically (through sight) and physically (through
then extended to the horizon line. touch).
One-Point Perspective - You're looking at the one-point  Optical Texture: An artist may use his/her skillful
perspective when you're standing on a station staring painting technique to create the illusion of texture.
down the railway track which narrows and then For example, in the detail from a traditional Dutch
disappears at a spot in the distance. The same with an still life above you can see remarkable
avenue of trees, or a long straight road. verisimilitude (the appearance of being real) in the
painted insects and drops of moisture on the silky
Things Further Away Are Smaller - The accurate
surface of the flower petals.
relative scale of objects is part of the illusion we're
 Physical Texture: An artist may paint with
creating when we apply the rules of perspective in
expressive brushstrokes whose texture conveys the
composition. We can create a sense of distance by
physical and emotional energy of both the artist
painting things in the background smaller than they
and his/her subject. They may also use the natural
are in the foreground. If you're creating from
texture of their materials to suggest their own
imagination (rather than observation) and aren't sure
unique qualities such as the grain of wood, the
how large to make an object, judge it by what else is in
grittiness of sand, the flaking of rust, the
that part of the painting. For instance, if you have a
coarseness of cloth and the smear of paint.
tree and you want a person standing next to it, the tree
 Ephemeral Texture: This is a third category of
will likely tower above the figure (unless it's a sapling,
textures whose fleeting forms are subject to
of course). If the person is standing next to a car, they'll
change like clouds, smoke, flames, bubbles and
likely be taller if they're an adult. THER OW
liquids.
Procedures for Basic Perspectives

1. Start by creating a vanishing point by drawing an

"X" at the center of the paper.
2. Then for the next step draw a series of poles on the
right side
3. For the left side draw a series poles and add in
some perpendicular benches
4. Next is to sketch houses on the left side and a
beach scene on the right side of the drawing.