CPAR_4: Lesson 3 - Subject, Content, Context, Themes Flashcards
Today’s artists work in and respond to a global environment that is culturally diverse, technologically advancing, and multifaceted.
Contemporary artists
How do we viewers perceive contemporary art?
Viewers are challenged to set aside questions such as,
“Is a work of art good?”
“Is the work aesthetically pleasing?”
Instead, viewers consider whether art is
“challenging” or “interesting.”
- The main topic(s) that functions as a
foundation for an art work or literary work. - The literal and visual images seen in an artwork.
Subject/Subject matter
What are five examples of subjects in art? (LPSNA)
- Landscape
- Portraits
- Still life
- Narrative
- Animals
Figurative art
Recognizable
Representational
Derived from figurative forms
Abstract
No particular derivation from figurative forms
Non-representational
The central point or main idea expressed on the subject.
- The symbolic, connotative, and suggestive aspect in an artwork and can be regarded as the ultimate reason for creating art.
Content
Refers to settings, conditions, circumstances, and occurrences affecting production and
reception or audience response to an
artwork
Context
The artist’s age, gender, culture, economic conditions, social environment, and disposition affect art production
Artist’s background
Can be seen as a source of inspiration and a wellspring of materials for art production
Nature
Its significance lies not only in its aesthetic appearance but also in its functionality and its value to the community that produced it.
Everyday life
- Changes in the society, politics and economy
affect artists, the work they do, and the
structures that support their production. - Technological innovations engender shifts in
artistic production.
Society, politics, economy, and history
Aside from considering our personal identity as a perceiver of art as well as the contexts, it is also important to note when, where, and how art is
encountered.
Mode of reception
Connect subjects to their
social milieu or context, and there are many ways of determining the theme of an artwork.
Themes
