Interpretations
Art is creative expression; it means something different to every individual. It's a personal expression of the way individuals view the world. Interpretations are unique to each person. Art has no limitations and it provides an outlet of freedom to the artist. The way people view art is highly subjective. There are physical and nonphysical forms of art like music, dance, paintings, sculptures, etc. Art can illustrate one's imagination. Ideas are either original or unoriginal since art can be imitation or creation. It is thought expressed through form. It emphasizes the artist's beliefs and it stresses a specific theme or message. Art is used to express certain political, historical, or personal opinions through its illustrations.
Many artworks are forms of propaganda. The artist's political views can be expressed within the work. Whether there is a political revolution or a campaign, the artist's opinion is easy to decipher. An example is the Rosie the Riveter painting that convinced women that they deserved the right to work and later, to vote. People's individual opinions were altered from effective propaganda. Politics commonly inspired artists to produce certain works of art. Political artwork can be interpreted in many unique ways but it always means something to the viewer of the art piece. During controversial times, political art eased confusion but also increased tension. Political art has changed history throughout the years.
Historical events have resulted in many influential art pieces. War is a popular topic to illustrate, as well as tragedy like disease and famine. Common conflicts to depict are World War II and the French Revolution. Liberty Leading the People by Eugene Delacroix is a famous painting of the July Revolution in France. This painting gives us insight into what the war was like and the hardships that people faced. Without the historical documentation that art provides, people would lack the common knowledge that they have today. Historical artworks provide helpful information to historians and make people have a better understanding of world events.
Personal expression of one's opinion is exemplified in countless amounts of art. For example, rap music illustrates the artist's feelings and opinions through the lyrics. The Great Hall of the Bulls shows how some tribes viewed animals in a respectful, admirable manner. Their opinions on ancient animals and their significance is highlighted in the artwork. Viewers of the art also contribute their own personal beliefs or opinions when interpreting the theme or meaning of the work. Every artist expresses their opinion through their work and uses personal experience to convey their idea. The underlying themes or messages of works of art contain the artist's personal beliefs.
Art is an opportunity for the expression of political, historical and personal opinions. Because these opinions are published for people to view and appreciate, the world has been greatly affected by influential artworks. Art is very controversial, so some works of art cause conflicts but some also make the world a better place. Art inspires, teaches, speaks, explains, and influences. Certain forms of art allow people to feel secure and happy and relaxed. Without art, the world would be filled with ignorant, unappreciative individuals that lack that outlet for self-expression. Art has been changing the ways of the world ever since it was first created.
My understanding of art is the same as it was in the beginning of the year because art can be anything the artist wants it to be and everyone interprets concepts differently based on their personal experiences and what they have been exposed to. We apply our imagination to art, so the definition of art is very broad. The artworks that we have studied have no limitations but most have a specific theme or message to share. Since my opinion has stayed the same, that doesn't mean that AP Art History did not have a significant impact on me, because it did. I have learned more in this class than in any other. Art is very important and influential to me.
