Art 235 Final Blog Post

            I have never had the opportunity to learn about the history of art prior to this class; I was and still am excited to learn more about it. There is so much information out there; I have truly enjoyed learning about all of the different eras, cultures, and types of art.

 I would have to say that the earliest findings are what I found particularly interesting. The prehistoric – Stone age period is unique visually as well as historically. It fascinates me how works of art that are thousands of years old still remain in tact. Cave paintings in particular captivated my interest right away. As simplistic as they seem to most, they touch me in a special way.  Artists are special in the way that they are set apart and different from the average person.  They internalize, see, hear, and touch the world in a completely different way.  To be able to have the gift of expression through the works of ones hands is an amazing gift.  I find it interesting that the cave art was done in dark caves with only the flickering light of a lamp. These artists must have been very patient, and determined, not to mention they must have had great eye sight. I think it is really neat how people also used representational objects to tell a story and help others learn.  The BIRD-HEADED MAN WITH BISON within the Lascaux cave tells a story of a man who is probably a hunter who was telling a tale about how he hunted, or how to hunt.  The figures are so simplistic, especially the man who is portrayed as a stick figure. I found it interesting to learn about the different kinds of poses that artists used. The composite pose for example was used during this prehistoric time period. The images that are portrayed seem so elementary or better yet abstract compared to most present day artwork.

            Cave painting is very interesting; however I really liked learning about the cave sculptures. Being able to see pictures of these works within the text book is fascinating. I especially like the sculpture of the Bison within the cave in Le Tuc d’Audoubert, France. I think it is really cool how some of the shapes were modeled, as well as carved and engraved. The footprints of the artist(s) which surround the piece are really intriguing.

            Architecture is another artistic interest of mine. My family’s history lies within England; I love castles, and I found the picture of the Dover castle to be absolutely breath taking. The cathedrals that we looked at were also very interesting to me.  I especially enjoyed learning about the Medieval era and the "Doors of Bishop Bernard" panels. I enjoyed how they told stories from the Old Testament and the New Testament, because I am not a religious person, they were very informative and enlightening.  I especially liked the panels which showed the temptation and fall of mankind, which was done by portraying Adam and Eve sinning in the Garden of Eden.  The next panel showed the crucifixion of Christ, where he was left to die on the cross for the salvation of mankind. I like how these panels were done in chronological order, and I really appreciated the different levels of relief which they were carved. In all honesty I have learned so much from this class, I have a new appreciation and respect for art, artists and art historians.