Kaarli's Digital Art Space
Reading Responses
Reading #1
I enjoyed reading about and looking at all of the different types of art work and processes. The difference meanings and different level of depths in each piece or process really define how everything is art, and how complex the process can be. You really need to engage with your viewers and adhere to whatever subject matter you are trying to invoke or portray. It is a complex process that causes you think about composition as well as question how effective your communication through your piece is in order to spread your intended message. It's so complex so to the point where the type of medium you use can invoke different or specific emotions and thoughts, so it is one of the tools you need to consider when making an art piece. Every detail, for the most part, has to be intentional (or at least look intentional) so your art can communicate effectively.
Reading #2
Every artifact or piece of artwork contains some kind of design elements. They, the design elements, are the basic visual components in art pieces, and they come in a whole range that start from a point all the way to the texture of an art piece. You find design elements everywhere in art - from simple sketches and drawings to sculptures and purses which is what suprised me. I never really noticed the detail or design elements and choices of things like purses or even shoes until I read this chapter. The endless amount of elements like contour, shape, contrast, and even shadow are all placed and used with purpose. Diving into each design element and learning each one individually really opens and endless amount of ways to create an art piece and communicate visually.
Reading #3
The different directional forces in hand with the different proportionals of objects arranged in a media play a strong role in balance, the composition, and the message of a peice of work. For example, vertical force leads the viewers' eyes to see the piece an up and down format, and it communicates a sense of power, stability, and foundation which can be seen in Gordan Parks' "American Gothic." Another example is circular force which evokes joy, bubbliness, softness, fullness, harmony, etc. Circular compositions that use circular force can convey many different messages such as youth, inner peace, feminity, and much more. Other directional forces include diagonal force, horizontal force, and triangular force. Not only is the use of directional force a useful tool in creating a composition and message, but proportions plays a large role as well.
Reading #4
Balance and contrast are very important when considering a composition. Balance in a composition is important as it holds the art piece together - it brings a strong stability that appeals to the viewers' eyes. There are 4 main different kinds of balance: symmetrical balance, approximate symmetrical balance, asymmetrical balance, radial balance. These are the main directions that one can follow when attempting to create a composition. For example, the use of radial balance (which is essentially symmetry in every direction) is commonly seen in nature, and it can be very effective when it comes to the arrangement of the format. On the other hand, there is contrast which is essentially opposite elements that can enhance a message or contribute to the balance of the piece. There is visual contrasts as well as conceptional contrasts that can be found in many works of art. For example, you can see contrast in opposing values, complementary colors, and even ideas such as present day to historical days.
Reading #5
Repitition in an artwork can play a crucial part in the main idea and visual interest in a piece. It also unififies a piece of artwork, and it can comes in forms of patterns and visual rhythms. The rhythm in a piece can express movement in still objects which can be seen in Kiki Smith's "Jersey Crows" in which the birds are rhythimically placed in similar positions to express this sense of falling and lifelike movement. Repitition unififies a piece, but also can variety. For example, a two objects with similar patterns but different shapes and colors can strenghten the visual interest of the artwork.