Assignment task:
1. Explain why you think the comments below are interesting. Ask a question or two to inquire about further thoughts on the comments below
Option #1: The Visual Arts
The art I chose is The Virgin of the Rocks by Leonardo da Vinci 1483-86 (Louvre, Paris.) The two visual elements I think interpret the piece of art I selected is color and light and shadow. My color definition is the full spectrum of reflection of light. For light and shadow my definition would be light is the absence of shadow, where shadow is the absence of light.
There are distinct lines that form the cavern that show great outline of the depth of the picture, but also small intricate details in the close of everyone together. For shape and form, the rigid shape of the rocks paired with the flowy shape of the leaves creates distinct separation of the two themes in the painting. For color, there is a lot of low saturation color with a hint of brightness to raise the tone of the painting. The dark hues create a gloomy effect, whereas the light tone of their skin coupled with the high contrast garments lifts the mood of the painting. For space, the illusion that they are closer to the viewers eyes is created with a combination of shading, shaping, and sizing of the cavern with "light" being highlighted on the different surfaces of the cave. For texture, the contrast between the smooth skin of the family and the jagged edges of the rocks makes for a different theme of the painting. It's as if an innocent family has found themselves lost in a cavern or searching for something of value within the cave. For light and shadow, the difference between the gloomy dark shadows of the cave compared with the foggy light of the entrance shows depth within the cavern and shows that the family is not necessary in danger but rather taking a stroll with the safety of an exit nearby.
I believe Leonardo da Vinci is trying to portray Light, shadow, and color to convey the soft undertone of the painting. His distinct of bright hues and saturation paired with the dark background with the light of the entrance shows safety between the family. The expression on the families faces shows no eminent threat nearby nor sadness. This is my reasoning to this piece.
2. Explain why you think the comments below are interesting. Ask a question or two to inquire about further thoughts on the comments below
Option #1: The Visual Arts
The visual art elements in the Red Tail Hawk mural by Jason Pawley are color palettes and geometric shapes.
Color palette refers to the particular set of colors selected and utilized by artists in a specific artwork. It encompasses the combination and range of colors used to create visual harmony, communicate the intended message of the artist, and convey emotions (Roxo 19). The major aspects of a color palette are saturation, tone, contrast, hue, and value. On the other hand, geometric shapes tend to be precise and regular forms defined by mathematical properties. The shapes have particular characteristics like symmetry, straight lines, and angles, making them easily recognizable and distinct.
The Red-Tail Hawk mural contains a bold and limited color palette that has significant visual effects. The hawk is rendered in different shades of red, from deep browns to fiery oranges. This color selection immediately gets the viewers' attention as well as embodies the predatory power and nature of the hawk. The background of the painting contains vibrant blues that vary from a cool cerulean to a deep azure. It is a striking contrast to the hawk's warm tones, thus forming separation and a sense of depth. The yellow color emphasizes the hawk's predatory gaze and alertness. Besides, secondary colors, such as green, are used in the artwork, which gives a refreshing contrast to the dominant blues and reds, adding a touch of vibrancy and nature (Uncovering Oklahoma). Some orange parts accompany the hawk's feathers, which creates a richer portrayal. Thus, by limiting the bold colors, Jason creates a strong visual effect as well as a sense of unity in the entire Mural. In addition, the Mural's background comprises several overlapping trapezoids and triangles in bold shades of orange, blue, and green. Circles can be seen in the eyes of the hawk and also in the cityscape's subtle details (Way Marking). They contrast the sharp angles of dominant shapes, bringing about some balance and softness. The shapes create an energetic and dynamic backdrop of the hawk while simultaneously demonstrating the sharp angles of its talons and beak.
Via the color Palette, Jason Palette paints a clear image of the sensitive balance between the urban world and nature. The hawk represents a powerful nature symbol, standing defiant against the encroaching city, and its colors demand respect and attention. The green color gives some hope for coexistence, while the contrasting red and blue show the tension between these worlds (Uncovering Oklahoma). The message being conveyed is one of environmental awareness, urging people to identify the significance of protecting natural areas and spaces as well as finding means for wildlife and humans to coexist. By using geometric shapes, Jason challenges viewers to take into consideration the urban world and nature. The fragmentation and sharp angles show the effects of human development on animals, while the interconnectedness and dynamism highlight nature's resilience and adaption ability. The ultimate message is for people to find ways to coexist with wildlife and create a peaceful urban environment.