How does Art Happen? 225 Art

How does art happen? That is like asking a Dalmatian how it got its configuration of spots- it’s both natural and unpredictable. We can consciously try to breed a new idea to get a certain out come but more likely than not we cannot foresee every turn that art will take. Whether it be to sit down and forge a new creation or to accidently stumble across something that you have produced by mistake can manifest itself as art. Personally I have my art moments when I least expect it, when I get a flash forward of an image of inspiration. However, it is with that image that I try to create something but usually I find my manifestation of what is in my mind to deviate- losing the image in translation from my brain to my fingers. It was during our art session that I really took a closer look, to not only my own art process, but of those around me.

To begin understanding the art process and how it happens we must take a look at the artist as an individual. As I sat in the classroom I observed a few people delve right into the process and begin etching into their zinc palate a picture that they had chosen. Others were found to be at a loss, me included. I also have to note that this form of art in not idyllic for everyone- this must also be taken into consideration when analyzing the process of art. Everyone has their own picture of what art is and others may not be able to work with in the same confines of a medium that suits another artist. Michelangelo preferred to sculpt and was rather vexed when he was commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel. I heard a great deal of frustration of those around me as they were forming their creation because it not what they wanted, however, they may be able to create something that it more their taste when using other supplies.

Art is also something that can be conscious or unconscious. When the metal piece is sitting right in front of you it is difficult to picture what you want. However, once I began to draw lines I let me hand take over and flow over the metal. The picture was rather unclear, yet I liked what I saw and then began to consciously recreate it on other portions of my canvas. The art teacher that came to show us this form of art, gave each of us a few pictures that she wanted us to use somewhere in our final creation. This was not really what I had in mind and I became a little confused when she took my tool out of my hand and began to etch on my zinc piece. This is what I have never understood about art teachers, how they can tell me that art is different for everyone and yet insist on the way in which it should really be done.

Therefore, everyone’s form of art is different and cannot be defined by one set of rules. This being said, we must also share a point from the viewers of all art. Everyone can see art differently; therefore define the process of art in their own way. One creation may be seen as nothing more than a pile of nothingness which then throws the process of how it was created out the window. While on the other hand someone may see the same pile of art as beautiful and creative. Art can be whatever you want it to be and in the same way created however you want it to, whether it be on accident or purposefully. The outcome can either be carefully calculated by one artist, yet in someone else’s hands it can be created at random with an unpredicted outcome.

Art is beautiful and its creation is tangent on the artist and the interpretation of the viewers. It is the creative process that must contour itself to the artist and not the other way around. Art can be planned like crossing two breeds but it can also be a mutt with the creation of something being born from random mixes of ideas both conscious and unconscious.

How does Art Happen? 225 Art

How does art happen? That is like asking a Dalmatian how it got its configuration of spots- it’s both natural and unpredictable. We can consciously try to breed a new idea to get a certain out come but more likely than not we cannot foresee every turn that art will take. Whether it be to sit down and forge a new creation or to accidently stumble across something that you have produced by mistake can manifest itself as art. Personally I have my art moments when I least expect it, when I get a flash forward of an image of inspiration. However, it is with that image that I try to create something but usually I find my manifestation of what is in my mind to deviate- losing the image in translation from my brain to my fingers. It was during our art session that I really took a closer look, to not only my own art process, but of those around me.

To begin understanding the art process and how it happens we must take a look at the artist as an individual. As I sat in the classroom I observed a few people delve right into the process and begin etching into their zinc palate a picture that they had chosen. Others were found to be at a loss, me included. I also have to note that this form of art in not idyllic for everyone- this must also be taken into consideration when analyzing the process of art. Everyone has their own picture of what art is and others may not be able to work with in the same confines of a medium that suits another artist. Michelangelo preferred to sculpt and was rather vexed when he was commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel. I heard a great deal of frustration of those around me as they were forming their creation because it not what they wanted, however, they may be able to create something that it more their taste when using other supplies.

Art is also something that can be conscious or unconscious. When the metal piece is sitting right in front of you it is difficult to picture what you want. However, once I began to draw lines I let me hand take over and flow over the metal. The picture was rather unclear, yet I liked what I saw and then began to consciously recreate it on other portions of my canvas. The art teacher that came to show us this form of art, gave each of us a few pictures that she wanted us to use somewhere in our final creation. This was not really what I had in mind and I became a little confused when she took my tool out of my hand and began to etch on my zinc piece. This is what I have never understood about art teachers, how they can tell me that art is different for everyone and yet insist on the way in which it should really be done.

Therefore, everyone’s form of art is different and cannot be defined by one set of rules. This being said, we must also share a point from the viewers of all art. Everyone can see art differently; therefore define the process of art in their own way. One creation may be seen as nothing more than a pile of nothingness which then throws the process of how it was created out the window. While on the other hand someone may see the same pile of art as beautiful and creative. Art can be whatever you want it to be and in the same way created however you want it to, whether it be on accident or purposefully. The outcome can either be carefully calculated by one artist, yet in someone else’s hands it can be created at random with an unpredicted outcome.

Art is beautiful and its creation is tangent on the artist and the interpretation of the viewers. It is the creative process that must contour itself to the artist and not the other way around. Art can be planned like crossing two breeds but it can also be a mutt with the creation of something being born from random mixes of ideas both conscious and unconscious.

theo 314-

Stepping into Rome’s world has changed my perspective on many things as well as opened my eyes to the diversity that I thought I already knew. Upon arriving in Italy we are given a brief rundown of what to expect the next eight weeks including classes, metros, trains, as well as the people we may be encountering. Right off the bat we are told to ignore strangers that come up to us, those that try to sell us things, people who beg, those that offer tricks, or roses and give them a curt “No Grazie.” Of course we do not get the full meaning of what is being said to us during our orientation until we finally step out of Casa Messiana and into the bustling city of Rome. It is here is the city that we realize that Rome has more to teach us than just what we learn in class or memorizing facts and dates. It is here that we learn firsthand about others such as Gypsies, North Africans, and Jews.

                After our first few weeks here in Rome our fervent “no grazie” began to die down as we realize we could just walk away and not make eye contact with anyone that looked like they would begin talking to us. This is when I really began to see the response that other people began to have. The looks of disgust or indifference are the usual face that is pasted on metro riders or travelers in the train station.  A few weeks ago I began to realize that I had become one of those people that had started to become calloused and hardened against the fast paced city, with the mindset of lookout for yourself and forget about the rest. However, I realized while racing through Termini one day that that is not who I want to be – I do not want to be that person who cuts down everyone in front of me to get to my destination the quickest, I do not want to be that person who gives the lady on the corner begging for money a snide comment and a disgusted face, nor do I want to be that person that loses compassion for others around her. To lose that compassion in a way heightens my reaction to judge someone- making a decision of whether or not they are doing what I would condone. However, I cannot judge another person because I have not walked in their shoes. It is not my place to pass judgment on those that walk by with a baby in one hand and a cup in another hand that is outstretched.

                Although, we have been given more information about the people who live in Italy as Gypsies, about those that are from Africa and live under the Mafia’s control, and the Jews that were once housed in ghettos I still feel at a loss. I do not know what to make of the information that states that “Legalized” gypsies can share in the benefits of being an Italian citizen but with certain stipulations. At the same time we hear that people are leaving their homelands such as parts of North Africa in an attempt to escape the squalor and poor living conditions, coming to Italy to find a better home. However, it is at this most desperate time that people are taken advantage of and tricked into a slavery that keeps them still at a lower status of the social system that exists today. The cycle then is perpetuated over generations and as we witnessed in Naples children are being taught at a very young age to work. Their work begins with setting onto their faces a look that will melt your heart and make you reach into your wallet and give them money because it looks like they could use food or new clothes. However, if by giving them money, are we making it acceptable for them to continue this lifestyle of reliance and not actually finding “real” jobs.

            Throughout our classes and tours throughout Venice and Trastavere we have seen ghettos that reflect a time when Jews were persecuted and put aside in society. We have been told about the reaction to their religion and the way they were used as an example to the rest of the world because of their disbelief in Jesus. In the same way, the stigma that has followed the Jews has followed the Gypsies and North Africans in Italy.                  

                America is experiencing a parallel situation except it is with the Mexican/Hispanic culture. It is easy to be removed from the gypsy and African debate because we are leaving Italy in less than two weeks. However, this prejudice and mindset of keeping people at bay is everywhere. It is especially apparent in America where there are a huge number of international people that are vying for citizenship, work, or a better life.

            In my opinion everything has to start somewhere. My plan of attack, as of right now, is to do what I can as one person. It may be small and insignificant but if I am able to help one person in a small way then I have made a step closer to ending a larger part of suffering. I believe that with one gesture we can make an example and show others that it is okay to show compassion to those standing on the sidewalk trying to get you to buy things. It is okay to show the gypsy who is begging compassion. Everyone needs a chance to be understood and cared for regardless of who or what they are.

Theo 314

Stepping into Rome’s world has changed my perspective on many things as well as opened my eyes to the diversity that I thought I already knew. Upon arriving in Italy we are given a brief rundown of what to expect the next eight weeks including classes, metros, trains, as well as the people we may be encountering. Right off the bat we are told to ignore strangers that come up to us, those that try to sell us things, people who beg, those that offer tricks, or roses and give them a curt “No Grazie.” Of course we do not get the full meaning of what is being said to us during our orientation until we finally step out of Casa Messiana and into the bustling city of Rome. It is here is the city that we realize that Rome has more to teach us than just what we learn in class or memorizing facts and dates. It is here that we learn firsthand about others such as Gypsies, North Africans, and Jews.

                After our first few weeks here in Rome our fervent “no grazie” began to die down as we realize we could just walk away and not make eye contact with anyone that looked like they would begin talking to us. This is when I really began to see the response that other people began to have. The looks of disgust or indifference are the usual face that is pasted on metro riders or travelers in the train station.  A few weeks ago I began to realize that I had become one of those people that had started to become calloused and hardened against the fast paced city, with the mindset of lookout for yourself and forget about the rest. However, I realized while racing through Termini one day that that is not who I want to be – I do not want to be that person who cuts down everyone in front of me to get to my destination the quickest, I do not want to be that person who gives the lady on the corner begging for money a snide comment and a disgusted face, nor do I want to be that person that loses compassion for others around her. To lose that compassion in a way heightens my reaction to judge someone- making a decision of whether or not they are doing what I would condone. However, I cannot judge another person because I have not walked in their shoes. It is not my place to pass judgment on those that walk by with a baby in one hand and a cup in another hand that is outstretched.

                Although, we have been given more information about the people who live in Italy as Gypsies, about those that are from Africa and live under the Mafia’s control, and the Jews that were once housed in ghettos I still feel at a loss. I do not know what to make of the information that states that “Legalized” gypsies can share in the benefits of being an Italian citizen but with certain stipulations. At the same time we hear that people are leaving their homelands such as parts of North Africa in an attempt to escape the squalor and poor living conditions, coming to Italy to find a better home. However, it is at this most desperate time that people are taken advantage of and tricked into a slavery that keeps them still at a lower status of the social system that exists today. The cycle then is perpetuated over generations and as we witnessed in Naples children are being taught at a very young age to work. Their work begins with setting onto their faces a look that will melt your heart and make you reach into your wallet and give them money because it looks like they could use food or new clothes. However, if by giving them money, are we making it acceptable for them to continue this lifestyle of reliance and not actually finding “real” jobs.

            Throughout our classes and tours throughout Venice and Trastavere we have seen ghettos that reflect a time when Jews were persecuted and put aside in society. We have been told about the reaction to their religion and the way they were used as an example to the rest of the world because of their disbelief in Jesus. In the same way, the stigma that has followed the Jews has followed the Gypsies and North Africans in Italy.                  

                America is experiencing a parallel situation except it is with the Mexican/Hispanic culture. It is easy to be removed from the gypsy and African debate because we are leaving Italy in less than two weeks. However, this prejudice and mindset of keeping people at bay is everywhere. It is especially apparent in America where there are a huge number of international people that are vying for citizenship, work, or a better life.

            In my opinion everything has to start somewhere. My plan of attack, as of right now, is to do what I can as one person. It may be small and insignificant but if I am able to help one person in a small way then I have made a step closer to ending a larger part of suffering. I believe that with one gesture we can make an example and show others that it is okay to show compassion to those standing on the sidewalk trying to get you to buy things. It is okay to show the gypsy who is begging compassion. Everyone needs a chance to be understood and cared for regardless of who or what they are.

325- Being Universal and Roman

The opening of line of the Pope’s address on Easter and Christmas, “Urbi et Orbi,” acknowledges the presence of several diverse groups of people that have come together in union of belief and faith. In this way the Pope is reaching out to those congregated in St. Peter’s Square, along with those around the world that are unable to attend . All corners of the world are touched with this gesture- showing that all are welcome to come and take part in faith as well as solidarity among other people, fulfilling the Roman Catholic Church’s meaning of being universal.

While in St. Peter’s Square, my personal experience has added to my outlook on the Church and its role in the global community. The way in which the Pope addressed many groups of foreigners, in their native tongue, suggests his willingness to incorporate others in the faith. From the books of Acts we see this occurrence as Peter reaches out to Gentiles.  ‘While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”’ Acts 10: 44-47.

This passage suggests that God can be reached by any individual. Personally I believe that anyone can have this relationship with God and are quite capable to make it their own. Being in Rome, the idea that there are other ways in which to do things has definitely set in and I realize that my “American Mentality” has somewhat influenced my views prior to studying abroad in Italy. Being able to see that there are other avenues to do something, to make a meal, to have a conversation, and in that respect find God is real. In Vatican II, Pope John Paul suggested that the Church open its windows and let in a fresh perspective. In this manner the Church is like Ancient Rome. Ancient Rome was definitely a place in which foreigners from across the global came and visited leaving their mark as well as leaving a part of their legacy and culture with the Romans while also taking a piece of Rome home with them. This exchange assists in the integration of people all over the world which can essentially make Rome an Eternal City because it continues to live on in others that have taken a piece of it with them. Much in the same way has the church incorporated others in its teachings as well as left its print on those that have come to take part in its beliefs and ceremonies, such as the Papal Audience.

           

Continuing on with the Roman Catholic Church’s universal outlook, I find that people all over the world have their own views, opinions, and way of doing things and no one can change or force them to conform to one and only one way of doing things. I personally, do not think that this is the intent of Jesus or God – instead we are to accept everyone as they are and to establish a brotherhood-which can flow through the newly opened window of the Church. The Poet Kahlil Gibran has eloquently stated this through the following passage: “You are my brother and I love you. I love you worshipping in your church, kneeling in your temple, and praying in your mosque. You and I and all are children of one religion, for the varied paths of religion are but the fingers of the loving hand of the Supreme Being, extended to all, offering completeness of spirit to all, anxious to receive all.” (A POET’S VOICE part 3). I believe this is part of the Church’s fresh perspective: that those all over the world are still connected to one another in our humanity and to the divine.  

 I believe that this was the intent of Pope John Paul and his encouraging the Church to open its windows to reach out and be more universal and global. His out reaching to Muslims and Jews has helped facilitate the idea of trying to understand and accept others that may have other ways of expressing their beliefs. In this way the Church has evolved and in another sense returned back to its original roots in extending its hand to all because no one can “withhold the water for baptizing these people, who have received the Hold Spirit.”

325- Being Universal and Roman

The opening of line of the Pope’s address on Easter and Christmas, “Urbi et Orbi,” acknowledges the presence of several diverse groups of people that have come together in union of belief and faith. In this way the Pope is reaching out to those congregated in St. Peter’s Square, along with those around the world that are unable to attend . All corners of the world are touched with this gesture- showing that all are welcome to come and take part in faith as well as solidarity among other people, fulfilling the Roman Catholic Church’s meaning of being universal.

While in St. Peter’s Square, my personal experience has added to my outlook on the Church and its role in the global community. The way in which the Pope addressed many groups of foreigners, in their native tongue, suggests his willingness to incorporate others in the faith. From the books of Acts we see this occurrence as Peter reaches out to Gentiles.  ‘While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”’ Acts 10: 44-47.

This passage suggests that God can be reached by any individual. Personally I believe that anyone can have this relationship with God and are quite capable to make it their own. Being in Rome, the idea that there are other ways in which to do things has definitely set in and I realize that my “American Mentality” has somewhat influenced my views prior to studying abroad in Italy. Being able to see that there are other avenues to do something, to make a meal, to have a conversation, and in that respect find God is real. In Vatican II, Pope John Paul suggested that the Church open its windows and let in a fresh perspective. In this manner the Church is like Ancient Rome. Ancient Rome was definitely a place in which foreigners from across the global came and visited leaving their mark as well as leaving a part of their legacy and culture with the Romans while also taking a piece of Rome home with them. This exchange assists in the integration of people all over the world which can essentially make Rome an Eternal City because it continues to live on in others that have taken a piece of it with them. Much in the same way has the church incorporated others in its teachings as well as left its print on those that have come to take part in its beliefs and ceremonies, such as the Papal Audience.

           

Continuing on with the Roman Catholic Church’s universal outlook, I find that people all over the world have their own views, opinions, and way of doing things and no one can change or force them to conform to one and only one way of doing things. I personally, do not think that this is the intent of Jesus or God – instead we are to accept everyone as they are and to establish a brotherhood-which can flow through the newly opened window of the Church. The Poet Kahlil Gibran has eloquently stated this through the following passage: “You are my brother and I love you. I love you worshipping in your church, kneeling in your temple, and praying in your mosque. You and I and all are children of one religion, for the varied paths of religion are but the fingers of the loving hand of the Supreme Being, extended to all, offering completeness of spirit to all, anxious to receive all.” (A POET’S VOICE part 3). I believe this is part of the Church’s fresh perspective: that those all over the world are still connected to one another in our humanity and to the divine.  

 I believe that this was the intent of Pope John Paul and his encouraging the Church to open its windows to reach out and be more universal and global. His out reaching to Muslims and Jews has helped facilitate the idea of trying to understand and accept others that may have other ways of expressing their beliefs. In this way the Church has evolved and in another sense returned back to its original roots in extending its hand to all because no one can “withhold the water for baptizing these people, who have received the Hold Spirit.”

Art Journal 225 Due Sept 21, 2010 Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's

The Last Judgement, by Michelangelo, spans the entire front altar of the Sistine Chapel. In particular, I would like to focus on the image of St. Bartholomew. Looking at the painting of the St. Bartholomew, we see him resting at the left hand of Jesus Christ. He is holding a knife and skin, symbolizing the way in which he was flayed alive. This particular painting by Michelangelo was done in the fresco fashion upon the front wall of the Sistine Chapel.

Under Pope Clement VII, Michelangelo was commissioned to paint the Last Judgment on the Sistine Chapel around 1535. He completed this task about 1541, during his late sixties. Michelangelo was unhappy with his position as painter because he regarded himself as solely a sculptor. However, his endeavor of taking on the Last Judgment, succeeded with its attempt to depict the second coming of Christ. In particular, the image of St. Bartholomew represents the many martyrs that were killed for their belief and loyalty to Christ. The image of St. Bartholomew with his knife and skin are shown in a way that would look as if he is holding up his sacrifice and pain, showing Christ his love and loyalty. It is during this final judgment that Bartholomew is reminding God of his sacrifice as he was skinned alive. This is one of many images that depicts likeness of the ways martyrs were killed for their beliefs.

Taking a closer look at the image of St. Bartholomew and his skin, observers can see a face in the flayed skin. Through the centuries that image has been said to be that of Michelangelo himself. His depiction of himself shows an anguished and tormented side. This image has been interpreted to mean what Michelangelo felt, when his time would come to be judged, he would not have such an offering to give to Christ. The tortured face in the folds of the skin relay the fatigue and inner turmoil that Michelangelo felt as he completed the Final Judgement.

The creation of Michelangelo’s sculpture of the Pieta was commissioned for the funeral Cardinal Jean de Billheres.  The Pieta has since been moved to the first right alcove of St. Peter’s Basilica. Michelangelo’s depiction of the Blessed Mother and Son was carved out of marble in 1499.

This sculpture of Mary and Jesus is unlike many others. In that, the Holy Mother is cradling the dead body of her son. Many times she is seen holding a child or the infant baby Jesus. Instead, the Pieta recreates the scene right after Jesus has been taken off the cross. This image humanizes both Mary and Jesus, showing both of their vulnerability. The wounds of Jesus are not highlighted in Michelangelo’s Pieta instead they are smaller wounds showing where he was nailed to the cross and then stabbed in the side.

Another, symbol found in the Pieta is the image of Mary. Here she is seen as a young woman holding to herself a body of a grown man. The sculpture shows a very serene and young Mary. It is unusual to see such a young version of Mary especially when she is seen with her son Jesus. However, Michelangelo intentionally created Mary this way. He used her image in the Pieta to convey her purity of heart, because he believed that through her purity she was kept “fresh and unchanged by time.” Even looking at the proportion of Mary to the limp body of Jesus viewers can see a big contrast. This can also be said to symbolize the motherliness of Mary as she takes Jesus’ dying body into her hands. Her comfort as a mother returns almost as if she were comforting a small child. This image of Mary conveys her strength and purity even at one of the most difficult times in her life.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piet%C3%A0_(Michelangelo)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bartholomew_the_Apostle

Tour of St. Peter’s Basilica