The Frames

Question 0

What are the 4 Frames?

Answer 0

Subjective
Structural
Cultural
Post-modern

Question 1

What is the purpose of the Frames?

Answer 1

The frames are a series of conceptual viewpoints, through which one may better understand an artwork, it’s purpose, and subject matter.
Conversely, the Frames also aid the artist in defining/fulfilling their philosophical thesis in their art making.

Question 2

Describe the Subjective Frame

Answer 2

This frame relates to the emotions and inner life of the artist- how their fears, dreams and imaginings came through their work. Artists/artworks that deal in the is frame often deal with heavier, psychological issues of humanity. The artwork often evokes a great deal of emotion through subject matter, style or technique.

Question 3

Describe the Structural Frame

Answer 3

This frame focuses on the visual language of the artwork/artist, as opposed to the subject matter. It is the technique, style, signs and symbols that the artist uses that carries the most meaning in this frame. Artists who rely on the frame develop their own particular system of visual devices to convey meaning.

Question 4

Describe the Cultural Frame

Answer 4

This frame focuses on how the artwork/artist responds the issues of their context, conveying an artist’s political, spiritual or social values. Further meaning may be cultivated through addressing major events in their work, as well as the social perspective of the audience. An artist may wish to inform/challenge/change public values.

Question 5

Describe the Post-modern Frame

Answer 5

This frame is obviously derived from the post-modern movement, and so addresses how an artist/artwork challenge mainstream values, conventions and ideas, scrutinising the values of the Modernist movement, as well as the basic ideals of art. These artists often employ irony, parody, quotation, pastiche or appropriation to convey meaning.