There are three main strategies for analyzing works of art: contextual theory, formal theory, and expressive theory. Contextual theory focuses on the political, social, or religious context of a work of art. Formal theory focuses on its visual characteristics. Expressive theory relates a work of art to the experience of the artist who created it. This week you will be using expressive theory and will discuss a work of art by relating it to the life of the artist.
The history of art is populated with many fascinating characters, and their work often reflects the triumphs and tragedies that shaped their lives. Once again, you will choose an artist from this week’s reading and will present a work of art that you feel reflects some aspect of this artist’s life. You are welcome to speculate about the artist’s intentions but be sure to explain your reasoning.
The following list is designed to help you, but you may choose any artist from the reading. You may even choose an artist not discussed in the reading as long as they are associated with a movement that is covered this week. Van Gogh is not on the list of suggested artists because you are probably already familiar with his work and life. It is tempting to write about what you know but I would like you to learn about an artist that you are unfamiliar with.
- Odilon Redon
- Henri Rousseau
- Auguste Rodin
- Camille Claudel
- Paul Gauguin
- Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
- Suzanne Valadon
- William Morris
- Frederic Leighton
- Aubrey Beardsley
- Gustave Klimt
- Antoni Gaudí
- Edvard Munch
- James Ensor
Answer preview
The design is also a reflection of his experience as a textile designer later in life. In 1861, Morris founded Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. The company aimed at responding to the Victorian manufacturing practices which Morris and his colleagues termed as shoddy. He was fervent in advocating against such practices, and the company grew favorite very fast. The company focused on the interior design which included designing of wallpapers and fabrics. In 1875, Morris took full control of the company and renamed it Morris & Co. The company survived for decades and traded in 1940. The longevity of the company shows the success that Morris had in interior design. In conclusion, the Strawberry Thief relates to two phases of Morris’ life, that is, his childhood and his adult life as a fabric designer.
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