MODULE 4

Symbolism

Definition: An artistic and literary movement suggesting ideas through symbols, emphasizing
meaning behind visual elements.

Purpose: Reaction against moralism, rationalism, and materialism of the 1880s.

Key Concepts:

-Art as an expression of psychological and spiritual truth.

-Symbolists portrayed dreams and visions.

-Escapism in art.

Albert Aurier's Symbolist Manifesto:

1. Ideative – Expresses an idea.

2. Symbolist – Uses form to express ideas.
3. Synthetic – Generally understandable forms.
4. Subjective – From the perspective of the artist.
5. Decorative – Art is inherently symbolic and synthetic
6. Notable Work: Death and the Masks by James Ensor.

Expressionism (Germany)

Definition: A movement focused on emotional expression and subjective experience.

Groups:

Die Brücke (1905) – Kirchner, Bleyl, Heckel, etc.

Der Blaue Reiter (1911) – Kandinsky, Marc, Klee, etc.

· Post-WWI Expressionism: Reflected cynicism and alienation.

· Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity): Blended Expressionism and Realism (e.g., Otto Dix,
George Grosz).

Cubism

· Founders: Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.

· Goal: Break from traditional perspective, show multiple angles simultaneously.

· Features:

· Flattened picture plane

· Rejection of naturalistic techniques.

 · Use of African art for inspiration (stylistic, not symbolic).

Vision:

Introduced relativity in perception.

Fused observation and memory in one image.

Abstract Expressionism

Characteristics:

1. Pure abstraction.
2. Emotional spontaneity.
3. Automatic/psychic improvisation (inspired by Surrealism).
4. Non-traditional composition.
5. Large-scale canvases.

Key Forerunners:

· Arshile Gorky – Biomorphic shapes.

· Hans Hofmann – Textured brushwork.

. Installation Art

Definition: Large, unified artworks occupying entire rooms or spaces.

Traits:

· Mixed media, including found objects, video, audio.

· Site-specific and often temporary.

· Classified as time-based media.

Purpose: Focus on viewer experience, challenges commercialization of art.

Futurism

Origin: Italy, early 20th century.

Focus: Speed, technology, dynamism, and modernity.

Influence: Visual arts and poetry.

Non-Objective Art

· Definition: Abstract art that doesn't depict natural objects.

· Style: Often geometric, using flat planes, devoid of perspective or emotion.

· Key Artists:

· Wassily Kandinsky

· Alexander Rodchenko – Black on Black (1918).

· Kasimir Malevich – White on White, founder of Suprematism.

Dadaism

· Origin: Zurich, Switzerland (WWI).

· Reaction To: War, nationalism, and traditional art.

· Style: Diverse – performance, collage, sculpture, poetry.

· Philosophy: Anti-art, absurdity, irony.

· Legacy: Precursor to Surrealism and other avant-garde movements.

Surrealism

· Started: 1920s, Paris.

· Founder: André Breton, wrote the Surrealist Manifesto.

· Goal: Merge conscious and subconscious into “absolute reality.”

· Techniques: Psychic automatism, spontaneous writing/art.

· Legacy: Influenced U.S. and Mexican artists post-WWII.

Constructivism

· Origin: Russia (1913), Vladimir Tatlin.

· Influences: Cubism, Futurism.

· Goal: Use art as a constructive, social tool.

· Materials: Industrial – steel, glass, plastic.

· Applications: Architecture, fashion, ceramics, graphic design.

· Realist Manifesto (by Pevsner & Gabo): Art should be constructed.

Abstract Expressionism

· Origin: United States, late 1940s to 1950s

· Notable Artists: Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline, Mark Rothko, Helen Frankenthaler,
Barnett Newman, Lee Krasner

Key Features:

· Abstract forms not based on visible reality

· Emphasis on spontaneity, emotion, and personal expression

· Technique often includes large, unstructured canvases

· Psychic improvisation influenced by Surrealism

· Monumental canvases meant to be immersive

· Art is intuitive, gestural, and often chaotic

Minimalism (ABC Art)

· Origin: United States, late 1950s; peaked in 1960s

· Influences: Kazimir Malevich, a reaction against Abstract Expressionism

Key Features:

· Repetition of simple geometric shapes (e.g., squares, lines)

· Clean lines, precise hard-edged borders

· Monochromatic color schemes (e.g., black, gray, white)

· No visible brushstrokes – smooth and impersonal

· Emotion and narrative are deliberately removed

· Art exists purely as form, color, and spatial relationship

Conceptual Art
· Origin: Gained traction in the late 1950s and 1960s

· Pioneers: Marcel Duchamp (father of Conceptual Art), Edward Kienholz

· Key Features:

· Focus on ideas rather than physical artwork

· Common materials: text, photography, found objects, performance, video

· Often ephemeral, non-commercial, or non-object-based

· Challenges traditional art by shifting creativity to the viewer’s interpretation

· Influenced by Dada and Surrealism

· Famous work: Fountain by Duchamp (1917) – a urinal submitted as art

Photo-Realism (Super-Realism)

· Origin: United States, 1960s

· Notable Artists: Richard Estes, Chuck Close, Audrey Flack, Duane Hanson (sculptor)

· Key Features:

· Paintings based on high-resolution photographs

· Illusionistic imagery, but filtered through photography

· Subjects often include cars, diners, storefronts, everyday consumer items

· Use of tools like airbrushes and slide projectors for detail accuracy

· Precise technique, emphasizing craftsmanship and planning

· Focus on light, reflection, and surface textures

· Avoids social commentary—unlike Hyperrealism

Installation Art

· Installation Art refers to room-sized or larger artworks where the entire space is treated as one unified
piece.

· Unlike traditional exhibits, installation art is a single cohesive work, not a collection of separate
artworks.
· Emerged in the 20th century, particularly from Conceptual Art practices in the 1950s–60s.

· The term “installation art” became widely used in the 1970s.

Characteristics of Installation Art

1. Mixed Media – Combines different art forms (e.g., painting, sculpture, textiles, text, sound,
video).
2. Found Objects – Often uses everyday materials repurposed as art.
3. Site-Specific – Created to fit a specific space or location.
4. Time-Based – Typically temporary and exists for a limited time; documented via photos/videos.
5. Immersive Experience – Viewers walk through or interact with the art, engaging multiple senses
(sight, sound, smell, touch).
6. Anti-Commercial – Often cannot be sold or collected due to its scale and temporary nature;
focuses on experience over ownership.

Types of Installation Art

· Gallery-Based – Located in museums or art galleries.

· Public Art – Created in outdoor or community spaces.

· Computer/Electronic/Web-Based – Incorporates digital or internet-based elements.

· Interactive – Requires participation from the audience.

· Live/Performance-Based – May include actions performed by the artist or audience.

Media Used: Natural/man-made objects, painting, sculpture, video, sound,

photography, animation, happenings (live events).

Installation Art in the Philippines

· Influenced by Malay, Chinese, Spanish, American cultures and globalization.

· Manila is becoming a key hub for contemporary art in Southeast Asia.

· Old buildings are being transformed into galleries and alternative spaces.

· Filipino artists actively participate in:

· International art fairs and biennales

· Residency programs abroad

· Exhibitions with global collectors and museums

· The local art scene is also attracting foreign artists for collaborative projects and residencies.
 MODULE 5
Baroque Instrumental Music (1600–1750)

Overview

· Emerged from the Renaissance and is known for its heavily ornamented style.

· Though often lumped with Classical music, Baroque predates the Classical period.

Key Characteristics

· Rich ornamentation and embellishments

· Use of basso continuo (continuous bass line)

· Expressive and dramatic contrasts in dynamics and textures

· Birth of tonal harmony (major and minor scales)

Popular Instrumental Forms Originated in Italy

· Cantata – vocal composition with instrumental accompaniment

· Concerto – soloist with orchestra

· Sonata – composition for one or more instruments

· Oratorio – large musical composition (usually religious)

· Opera – theatrical musical performance with singers and orchestra

Famous Baroque Composers

· Johann Sebastian Bach (Germany)

· George Frideric Handel (Germany/England)

· Antonio Vivaldi (Italy)

· Domenico Scarlatti (Italy)

MODULE 6
THE PROCESS OF ART MAKING AND ACTS OF APPROPRIATION

Art as a Lifelong Journey

· No one is ever a complete expert in art — it is a continuous learning process.

 · Formal training helps accelerate learning but is not required.

· Artists must explore museums, books, conversations, and personal observation.

· Being an artist is a way of life — observing colors, patterns, and scenes everywhere.

Soulmaking (Poiesis)

· Poiesis (Greek): “to create” or “to bring something into being.”

· Art-making helps develop skills, creativity, decision-making, and self-awareness.

· Focus can be on the process or the final product.

· Encourages independence, mastery, collaboration, and exploration.

Phases of the Art-Making Process

Phase 1: Sketching, underpainting, planning

→ Intro to techniques and concepts
Phase 2: Adding layers (color, tone, paint)
→ Exploration and problem-solving
Phase 3: Final details
→ Mastery of elements, composition, craftsmanship

Stages of Art Making

1. Inspiration – The spark or trigger of creativity (from life, nature, media, etc.)
2. Percolation – Quiet processing and refinement of ideas before creation
3. Preparation – Gathering materials and creating blueprints or mockups
4. Creation – Execution; the act of making the art piece
5. Reflection – Evaluation, sharing, or experiencing post-creation thoughts/emotions.

SEVEN DA VINCIAN PRINCIPLES (Michael Gelb, 1998)

PRINCIPLES MEANING
Curiosita Insatiable curiosity and desire for lifelong learning
Dimostrazione Learning through experience and failure
Sensazione Refined awareness through the senses
Sfumato Acceptance of uncertainty and ambiguity
Arte/Scienza Balance between logic and creativity (whole-brain
thinking)
Corporalità Cultivating a sound body and mind
Connessione Seeing the interconnectedness of all things

ACTS OF APPROPRIATION IN ART

Definition:

· Appropriation = Using pre-existing images or objects in new artistic contexts.

 · Includes images from media, advertising, historical art, or found objects.

Cultural Appropriation

· Happens when dominant cultures adopt elements from minority cultures.

· Can be exploitative, especially when credit is not given to the source culture.

· Difference from cultural exchange: Power imbalance and colonial influence.

5 Types of Cultural Appropriation:

Typ Description Example

e
1. Object Appropriation Taking tangible cultural items Parthenon sculptures taken by
Lord Elgin
2. Content Appropriation Using songs/stories from other Western artist singing "Dahil Sa
cultures Iyo"
3. Stylistic Appropriation Copying style without copying White musicians playing
specific work jazz/blues
4. Motif Appropriation Using artistic ideas/inspiration Picasso influenced by African
carvings
5. Subject Appropriation Representing other cultures in Conrad writing about
one’s work African/Asian cultures

Ethical Considerations in Appropriation

· Consider the intention, respect, and power dynamics.

· Museums and artists have a role in responsible display and interpretation of works.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PERIODS (Baroque to

Romantic)
🔹 Baroque Period (1600–1750)

Key Traits: Dramatic, expressive, ornamental, religious or royal in tone

Genres: Cantata, Concerto, Sonata, Oratorio, Opera

Composers: Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel

🔹 Classical Period (1750–1820) (Transition)

 Traits: Clarity, structure, harmony, balanced compositions

Composers: Mozart, Haydn, early Beethoven

Romantic Period (Late 18th–19th Century)

Focus: Emotion, passion, and individualism

Styles: More expressive and often nationalistic

Composers: Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Liszt, Schumann

TEXTILE ARTS OF THE MINORITIES

Definition:

· Textile art is the art of creating items using fibers derived from:

· Natural sources like plants (e.g., cotton, flax), animals (e.g., wool, silk), and insects (e.g.,
silkworms).

· Synthetic materials (e.g., nylon, polyester).

Historical Background:

· Textile-making is one of the oldest art forms in human history.

· Textile fragments from prehistoric periods show that ancient people practiced weaving and
fabric-making.

· Its original purpose was functional:

· Warmth during cold weather

· Protection from environmental element

· Insulation of shelters

Significance to Minorities:

In many indigenous and minority communities, textile art is more than just functional—it is a cultural
expression. Here’s why it’s important:

1,Cultural Identity
 · Traditional patterns, symbols, and colors represent ethnic identity, history, and beliefs.

·Each tribe or ethnic group has a distinct textile style, often passed down through
generations.

2.Storytelling

· Weaving and embroidery often tell stories—myths, historical events, or aspects of daily
life.

3. Rituals and Ceremonies

· Used in weddings, rituals, festivals, and rites of passage.

· Specific textiles may be worn only by elders, warriors, or spiritual leaders.

4. Economic Livelihood

· Many indigenous groups sell their textiles to support their communities, especially in
tourism and trade.

Examples in the Philippines:

1. T’nalak (T’boli tribe, South Cotabato)

· Made from abaca fibers

· Patterns are believed to be received through dreams (hence “dream weavers”)

2. Inabel (Ilocano textile)

· Known for its durability and geometric designs

3. Kalinga and Ifugao textiles (Cordillera)

· Use red, black, and white threads

· Designs often include zigzags, diamonds, and nature-inspired motif

4. Pis Syabit (Tausug, Sulu)

· Square cloth worn on the head, known for intricate geometric patterns

Artistic and Ethical Considerations

· Respect for Cultural Ownership

 · Appropriation of traditional textile designs by mainstream fashion without permission is a
form of cultural exploitation.

· Preservation of Traditional Methods

· Supporting authentic artists helps preserve cultural heritage.

 MODULE 8
IMPROVISATION ON VARIOUS ART FORMS

What is Improvisation?

· Improvisation is the act of spontaneously creating or performing something without prior

planning.
 · It is used across various art forms and disciplines—from dance and music to theater and science.

· Can be a way of thinking, exploring creativity, and responding to the present moment (Spolin,
1963; de Spain, 2003).

Forms of Improvisation in Art

1. Contact-Body Improvisation (Dance)

· A type of postmodern dance where partners move in and out of contact, using:

· Weight sharing

· Touch and momentum

· Unpredictable movement

· Developed in the 1970s by Steve Paxton and others from Judson Dance Theater.

· Promotes trust, physical awareness, and authentic movement.

· Focuses on being present and responding instinctively to a partner’s movements.

2. Sound Improvisation (Music)

· Also called musical extemporization—creating music in real-time.

· Common in genres like jazz, blues, classical, and fusion.

Musicians:

· Respond to chord progressions or harmonic frameworks.

· Invent melodies, rhythms, and harmonies on the spot.

· Requires both technical skill and emotional sensitivity.

· Britannica: Improvisation is "free performance within a stylistic framework."

3. Theater Improvisation

· Also known as "improv", it involves:

· Performing without a script.

 · Using audience input or spontaneous ideas

Actors must:

· Listen and respond quickly to fellow performers.

· Be creative, alert, and socially aware.

· Often involves humor or drama, with an interactive cast-audience dynamic.

· Props and character roles are invented during the scene.

Challenges in Improvisation & How to Overcome Them

Challen Description Solution

ge
Mental blocks Creativity feels stuck. Be patient; take breaks; allow
ideas to flow naturally.
Remembering new movements Forgetting spontaneous steps Practice regularly; visualize
during practice. movements; record sessions.
Fitting ideas together Movements or ideas come in Trust the process; organize later;
random order. allow natural progression.
Differences in concept Final output may differ from the Stay flexible; follow where
original plan. creativity leads.
Mindset and fear Stage fright or fear of mistakes Perform often; focus on
blocks creativity. enjoyment and expression over
perfection.

Importance of Improvisation in Art

· Encourages creativity and originality.

· Teaches artists to adapt, solve problems, and express authenticity.

· Builds confidence and collaboration, especially in group settings.

· Helps develop emotional intelligence and awareness of self and others.