14 Dec European Modernist work

Order Instructions

Our last discussion will explore artwork samples of early 20th century Modernism to see the variety of ways in which artists deviated from Renaissance naturalism, and why. Artists experimented with styles that were shocking in their day. But there was more to their style decisions than shock value. Let us find out what was in the mind of each creator.

Begin your discussion preparation by choosing a European Modernist work from the text or from an online source. Choose a Modernist artwork produced between 1900 and 1920. Next, research the work to learn the artist’s intent, or the artist’s general interests. Be sure to cite your sources.

For your initial post:

Write two paragraphs. In the first paragraph, using your own observations, describe the style. How has the artist deviated from naturalism (from the way things normally look to our eye)? Consider the following:

choice of color

proportion

spatial depth, or lack of it

quality of line

use of light and shade

brushstroke or texture

In the second paragraph, explain what you know of the artist’s intent. What message was the artist trying to evoke? What were the artist’s interests at the time or personal views? Is the artist responding to contemporary events, such as World War I? Do you believe the resulting style reflected the artist’s intentions successfully?