by Launie And Melynda Sorrels

Created on: December 17, 2008

Art Appreciation

Definition of "Art"

1. "The quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance."

2. "The class of objects subject to aesthetic criteria; works of art collectively, as paintings, sculptures, or drawings: a museum of art; an art collection."

Defining Eight Art Types

Painting: The Mona Lisa painted by Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci is a portrait of a woman named Lisa Gherardini. Not only is this piece of art appealing to the eye; it has mystery, historical reference, and an invention of a new art style. Leonardo used chiaroscuro to distribute the light and shading of the picture. To aid in the blending he used what is called sfumato which truly is an invention of his own. Until just recently the sitter for this picture was unknown, but proof has been located, and the sitter is known.

Sculpture: The sculpture of the Venus de Milo, or Aphrodite of Melos, is unknown. The sculpted face is not that of the common Greek. Its proportions are made to be of a more divine nature; based more on Plato's biological studies of the human face. This structuring and detail is what makes this statue stand out from other Hellenistic Era pieces.

Architecture: The Taj Mahal (Crown Palace) was built in 1648. It required twenty thousand workers for twenty-two years to build this so-called eighth wonder of the world. Although the actual architect is not known it is accredited to Emperor Shah Jahan. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum and holds the Shah and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, also known as, Arjumand Banu. The design uses an interlocking arabesque concept so that each element stands on its own. Inlaid designs of calligraphy and flowers using precious gems helps make this structure a unique piece of art.

Photography:The picture of the raising of the flag in Iwo Jima was taken by Joe Rosenthal on February 15, 1945. Why would this Pulitzer Prize winning photograph be a piece of art? It is an inspiration to not only to Americans but to all of those who have ever fought a battle. When someone sees this photograph and knows anything about it, there will be emotion. That is art.

Printmaking: The Bible is the number one selling book of all time. It has been interpreted and transformed many times. I consider it art because it has touched so many people with such emotion. The bible transforms some of those who read it into believers. Others it may have the opposite effect. Not many read it

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>