D. Scettrini Reading response #2

Critique handbook chapter 2 summary and questions/ideas

This Chapter of the Critique Handbook really brings in some heavy topics in regards to the meaning of a work of art. The overall focus is how the meaning of a work is influenced by the materials it is made from, the manner in which they are used and the artist's own reasons for using these materials. Viewing a work of art should not be limited to an examination of its imagery or form. This chapter discusses how denotation and connotation can be applied in a critique of a work and how these terms are often confused with one another. There can be a lot of guesswork involved when examining a work of art and determining it’s meaning or figuring out the story it tells. The authors talk about making a work with an overly obvious meaning can achieve results creating a work with layers of subtle meaning can have a more profound effect on a viewer and leave a lasting impression. There are sections on how the materials influence meaning from the colors of those materials to how the materials are altered by the artist. The influences on the artist in creating a work are also covered. The personal history of the artist can change the meaning of a work just as easily as learning what the reason is behind the use of certain materials. The time period a piece is created in should also be considered when examining a work, as the contemporary meanings applied to certain characteristics may not be the same as those of an earlier time period if looking at a piece created in the past. Specifically nudes are discussed in regards to this topic and how time period, artist gender and the manner in which the nude is displayed or presented can affect how a nude is interpreted. The cultural and political influences on art and how to effectively view these aspects are talked about. How successfully the meaning of a work was conveyed through the choice of style in regards to political art is spoken of in relation to using recognized methods of creating political art and whether or not creating new styles is necessary. The last few sections discuss color, pattern, palette and placement. Each section goes into further details as to how each can be used to enhance and reinforce the meaning behind a piece and add layers to a work.

This chapter definitely helped me out with some issues I was having with a project I am working on and helped me to better define the reasons I chose some of the materials I am using. While meaning may not be absolute choosing the right materials and using them to direct the viewer in how to see the meaning of a work is one of the main points I took from this chapter. The sum of all the aspects of a work of art should help convey the meaning behind that work. From the materials to the colors to the positioning of the various elements all are important in regards to reaching out to the viewer. I had never really thought about the materials used in work of art unless it was sculpture this chapter opened my eyes in regards to what I take into consideration when examining other types of art work.