Special Edition Blog: Art Institute Visit

Picture of me.

Picture of you.

Example of best craft.

Still Life, 1625-30

Pieter Claesz

Craft

This painting is oil on panel and displays an accurate degree of proportions, lighting, and realism. The way the light reflects off of the metal kettle and plates is striking and really give a feel of texture. Texture is also emphasized with all of the food items, including the breads, fruits, the pie, as well as, the tablecloth. All edges are crisp but it does not appear to be drawn as it suits the baroque style.

Concept

The concept is simply a still life to present skill in the craft.

Composition

The lemons and limes stand out against the dark plate which stands out against the white tablecloth. The center of the front is where the eye is directed to first, but since it is a still life, composition may not be stressed and therefore subjective.

Example of best concept.

The Death of the Poet Walter Rheiner, 1925

Conrad Felixmuller

Craft

This painting is oil on canvas. It does not portray realism and many brushstrokes are evident as it is an expressionist piece.

Concept

The concept is very personal to the artist as it depicts one of his friends commiting suiside by jumping from a window. This era of art was remenicent of the aftermath of World War I and much depression erupted in many works of artists effected by the war.

Composition

The poet's face and hands stand out, and the face is by far was the viewer is attracted too, which might have been the artist's intention. The man's suit blends in with the city scape.

Example of best compisition.

Woman at Her Toilette, 1875-80

Berthe Morisot

Craft

This painting is oil on canvas. It is an impressionist piece and so the paint is really lathered on. Most fine edges are non existant.

Concept

This painting was done during the height of the Industrial Revolution in France and could be a sign of the times for the wealthy and also a representation of the artist herself.

Compostion

Although many edges are blurred and the woman's dress nearly blends in with the background, the viewer's eye cannot help but be attracted to the small, bright earing which the woman dons, created by a dollup of paint.