Why Black and White Photography Is Still Popular Today

We’ve talked about the power of black and white photography in a previous article, now it is time to dive into great black and white artworks made without a camera. The following artists have created masterpieces using only two colors. We see in their work a heightened sense of composition and the ability to communicate just as much (if not more) with a limited palette. M.C. Escher Ascending and Descending (1960) by M.C. Escher Copyright M.C. Escher The Black & White artwork of M.C. Escher continues to delight us today, teasing our minds with fascinating, mathematically inspired pieces. His work playfully explores themes like tessellation, impossible objects, and the concept of infinity. Surprisingly, Escher wasn’t a mathematician by training. Instead, he absorbed the ideas as an artist, giving them life in the studio through an artistic, rather than a mathematical, process. His most popular works (like Hand with Reflecting Sphere [1935], Drawing Hands [1948], and Tower of Babel [1928] to name only a few) have gone on to be published extensively, making his work some of the most seen and beloved in our time. Kazimir Malevich, Black Square (1915) Black Square (1915) by Kazimir Malevich Malevich lived on the bleeding edge of the art world, both as an artist and critic. When he completed Black Square in 1915, he dragged the art world out into the avant garde with him. This achievement is simply a white background with a black square painted on it, a devastatingly simple composition. Hailed (and hated) at the time for bringing art back to the “zero point of painting,” it continues to be controversial to this day. Pablo Picasso, Guernica (1937) Guernica (1937) by Pablo Picasso Copyright Pablo Picasso Picasso’s massive masterpiece Guernica was painted to lament and commemorate the bombing of the eponymous city on April 26, 1937. It was during the Spanish Civil War, and the Basque town was bombed by both German Nazi and Italian Fascist forces to support the fascistcause there. To express the depths of sadness, Picasso eliminated color — a bold choice. But taking away color did not take away any of the painting’s power, in fact, the black & white artworks highlighted the severity of destruction and the despair of the event. Bridget Riley and Op Art Movement in Squares (1961) by Bridget Riley Copyright Bridget Riley Bridget Riley is one of the most accomplished names in Op Art — a style that creates visual art using optical illusions. While Riley has plenty of color work, her most popular pieces are often in black and white (like Movement in Squares [1961], pictured above). When you see these monochromatic patterns, the eye often is tricked into visualizing movement and even color. Robert Longo Longo has had a long and productive career in many mediums, but his black and white drawings — often working off of photographs — have made up his most important output. He reached prominence through his Men in the Cities series, depicting men and women in business attire caught in contorted poses. One cannot decide if these people are lost in a dance, being shot, or suffering convulsions. By sticking with black and white, the images have the sense of being objective, clinical. The series has gone on to be recognized as one of the most important of a generation. READ: How Artists use colors in their work. Jackson Pollock There might be no bigger name in abstract art than Jackson Pollock. His kinetic process of flinging paint onto canvases has ignited the delight and imagination of millions of art lovers. While he often used color, many of his compositions were purely in black and white (like the aptly named Black and White (Number 6) [1951]). These show all the forceful energy of his work, which is his calling card, while peeling away color. Franz Kline Painting Number 2 (1954) by Franz Kline Copyright Franz Kline One of the luminaries of mid-century abstract expressionism, Kline grew to popularity with only two colors: black and white. His striking compositions are now famous, with his style becoming iconic, even beyond the name of the painter himself. The story goes that Kline landed on his style because of some friendly advice from fellow artist Willem de Kooning, who told him to break a creative lull by drawing on his studio wall using a projector. That led Kline to pursue large, abstract art. Victor Vasarely Like Bridget Riley on this list, Victor Vasarely was a pioneer in the Op Art movement. And like RIley, his work often only uses black and white to achieve its effects. In pieces like Supernovae (1961), he is able to create dimensionality and movement without color, relying on small adjustments to a repeating grid to produce optical illusions in the human eye. Black and White Wall Art When we think of black and white, we almost always think in terms of fine art photography. But this list, far from complete, shows just how much other visual artists have been able to accomplish when they bring things back to these two fundamental forces of light and dark. Discover our curated collection of Black & White Artworks today.

RtistiQ

29 Sep 2021

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The still life painting has remained one of the most popular exercises for artists. It can be extremely helpful in developing young talent, as well as keeping old masters sharp. But despite its use as a tool for teaching and practice, some have created still lifes that have gone on to take their place in the pantheon of great paintings. The genre formed in the late 16th century, drawing on practices in ancient Greece and the Middle Ages. The basic formula is for the artist to arrange inanimate objects and paint from direct observation. It is so basic, so fundamental, and yet it remains a popular genre. Once we begin to look through some of the best known still lifes in art history, we can begin to see why. With multiple types of still lifes that exist today, this genre gives us new insight into the textures and colors that fill our everyday lives. It is, in some ways, a celebration of human vision and a call to engage with your surroundings more fully. Vase with Fifteen Sunflowers (1888) by Vincent Van Gogh Vincent Van Gogh’s sunflower paintings are some of the most beloved of his entire oeuvre. Made up of two distinct series of paintings (the first painted in Paris and the second in Arles), this work from the second series is perhaps the most popular of all. The burning yellow is defined with judicious use of blue, and the bodies of the sunflowers seem alive. Van Gogh painted them for his friend Paul Gauguin. And the joy of that friendship can be felt in the canvas itself. Still Life with Fruit (1605-1610) by Caravaggio Caravaggio delivers us a sumptuous feast for the eyes. Made up of melons and an assortment of delicious fruit, these colorful bodies emerge from the dark in a small shaft of light — characteristic of the artist. While many commentators have speculated on the Renaissance-era symbolism of the fruit, we don’t really need to understand it to appreciate the painting. His ability to capture the fruit in such spectacular detail is more than enough. Violin and Candlestick (1910) by Georges Braque Braque is well known as one of the founders of Cubism, and here he applies that style to the still life. It’s an interesting combination: taking the latest breakthrough in visual arts and applying it to one of the most classic genres in painting. The objects in the still life are all given multiple points of view shown on the same surface, an impossibility for the naked eye but not the painter. Note his muted use of color as well. Vase of Flowers (1660) by Jan Davidsz. de Heem De Heem, a major name in both Dutch and Flemish Baroque painting, gives us one of the greatest depictions of flowers in all of art history. Here, the colors absolutely delight us as they come out of the dark background — note the similarity in lighting to his contemporary Caravaggio above. This painting shows what a true master can do with a still life. Note how all the fine details are expertly navigated, the wealth of visual information completely absorbed and rendered. Still Life with Skull (1898) by Paul Cezanne Cezanne is well known for his use of color, and he uses those trademark techniques to great effect in this still life. Painted late in his career, this shows a genius who has learned how to give us only what we need, no more and no less. There is no excess and no lack. The composition itself is striking. The skull is set off by ripe fruit, fruit we expect will all too soon begin to rot. This memento mori not only brings us in confrontation with our own mortality, it also reminds us that while we are here, there are things to be enjoyed, like a ripe pear. The Ray (1728) by Jean-Baptiste-Simeon Chardin This work does what a still life rarely can — bring a sense of horror. Of course, it in part does this by cheating the rules a bit. Notice the cat at the left side of the painting! Rule bending aside, this is a great work by Chardin who excelled in still lifes for much of his career. The strange objects and the hissing animal come together to give us a sense that all is not right. While the still life genre makes it difficult to tell much of a story, Chardin gives us the emotion of a narrative all the same.

RtistiQ

21 Oct 2021

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Pop Art emerged as a vibrant and influential artistic movement in the mid-1950s, challenging traditional notions of art and embracing the popular culture of the time. With its bold imagery, vibrant colors, and incorporation of everyday objects, Pop Art brought art closer to the masses. This article explores the definition, key characteristics, notable artists, and lasting impact of Pop Art on the art world and popular culture. What is Pop Art? Pop Art, short for "popular art," was a movement that emerged in the United States and the United Kingdom during the 1950s and 1960s. It was a reaction against the dominant abstract expressionist movement, which focused on subjective, introspective, and non-representational art. Pop Art, on the other hand, celebrated the ordinary, the commercial, and the mundane, drawing inspiration from mass-produced consumer goods, advertising, and popular culture. What are the characteristics of Pop Art? Appropriation and Repetition: Pop Art often incorporated images and objects taken from popular culture, such as product packaging, comic books, and celebrities. Artists manipulated and repeated these images to highlight their significance and challenge the concept of originality. Bold Colors and Simplified Forms: Pop artists used vibrant, eye-catching colors to attract attention and evoke a sense of consumerism. They simplified forms and employed graphic techniques, reminiscent of advertising and comic book aesthetics. Irony and Critique: Pop Art often conveyed a sense of irony and critique by juxtaposing disparate elements, subverting traditional art forms, and challenging societal norms. It questioned the boundaries between high and low culture, art and mass production, and the commercialization of society. Leading Artists of the Pop Art Movement Andy Warhol: One of the most iconic figures associated with Pop Art, Warhol employed screen-printing techniques to reproduce everyday objects, such as Campbell's soup cans and Coca-Cola bottles. His work explored themes of consumerism, fame, and the cult of celebrity. Roy Lichtenstein: Lichtenstein is renowned for his comic book-inspired paintings, featuring bold lines, Ben-Day dots, and speech bubbles. By appropriating and enlarging comic strip panels, he elevated popular culture to the realm of high art. Claes Oldenburg: Oldenburg's sculptures took ordinary objects and transformed them into monumental works of art. His oversized sculptures of hamburgers, typewriters, and clothespins challenged the viewer's perception of scale and materiality. Richard Hamilton: Considered the father of British Pop Art, Hamilton explored the relationship between art and technology. His collage-like works incorporated images from advertising, cinema, and popular magazines, reflecting the media-saturated society. Impact and Legacy Pop Art's influence extends far beyond its initial emergence in the 1960s. Its vibrant and accessible style has had a lasting impact on contemporary art, design, fashion, and popular culture. Pop Art paved the way for subsequent art movements such as Neo-Pop, Street Art, and the appropriation art of the 1980s. It blurred the boundaries between high and low art, challenged the traditional notions of artistic value, and emphasized the democratization of art. Concluding Remarks Pop Art revolutionized the art world by breaking away from the abstract and introspective tendencies of the time. It celebrated the everyday, the commercial, and the popular culture, making art more accessible to a wider audience. Through its use of appropriation, bold colors, and irony, Pop Art continues to captivate and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary art and popular culture.

RTISTIQ TEAM

01 Jul 2023

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Art is a vast and diverse realm that encompasses a wide range of creative expressions. Within this realm, the concept of "Art Medium" holds a crucial role, serving as the bridge between artistic intent and tangible creation. The medium that an artist chooses to work with can have a significant impact on the style and meaning of the artwork. For example, a painting made with oil paints will have a different look and feel than a painting made with watercolors. In the context of Art attribution "Art Medium" has been used interchangeably to refer both the category of artwork and the materials used to bring forth an artist's vision. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of art medium, exploring its dual significance in the world of art. Art Medium as a Category of Art In its first sense, an art medium represents the various categories or disciplines within the field of art. Each medium possesses distinct characteristics, techniques, and artistic approaches. Let's explore some of the prominent art mediums: Painting: Painting is a traditional and widely recognized medium that employs pigments on surfaces such as canvas, paper, or wood. It encompasses various styles like oil painting, watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media, each offering unique visual qualities and expressive possibilities. Painting, Pop Horizon by Barron Holand Sculpture: Sculpture involves shaping and manipulating materials such as stone, wood, metal, clay, or even found objects. Artists create three-dimensional forms that can range from classical figurative representations to abstract and conceptual installations. Sculpture, S-04 BIG FOOT by Aleks Rosenberg Drawing: Drawing is a fundamental art medium that employs pencils, pens, charcoal, or other tools to create two-dimensional representations. It encompasses techniques like sketching, shading, and hatching, allowing artists to convey ideas, explore compositions, and develop their artistic skills. Drawing, Dancer in Red by NK Hong Photography: Photography born from the marriage of science and art, captures moments through the lens of a camera. It employs light-sensitive materials and digital technologies to immortalize scenes, people, and emotions, providing a unique perspective on the world. Photography, La grève Je T'aime by Gudzovsky Printmaking: Printmaking encompasses various techniques such as etching, lithography, screen printing, and relief printing. Artists create multiple copies of their artworks, each possessing its own subtle variations, by transferring images onto paper or other surfaces. Ceramics: Ceramics involves working with clay, shaping it into objects, and firing them in kilns to achieve hardness and permanence. This ancient medium encompasses functional pottery, decorative vessels, sculptures, and intricate porcelain works. Textiles: Textile art employs fabrics, threads, and fibers to create tactile and visually engaging works. It includes techniques like weaving, embroidery, quilting, and textile installations, exploring themes of culture, identity, and materiality. Installation and Performance Art:: These mediums go beyond traditional forms, embracing immersive experiences and the participation of the audience. Artists use various materials, space, sound, and movement to create site-specific installations or enact performances that challenge the boundaries of art. Digital NFT: Very recently Digital NFT is being regarded as an art medium, and more importantly revolutionising Digital Art representation. Utilizing blockchain technology, NFTs represent unique digital assets, such as artwork, music, or videos, providing a secure and verifiable link between the digital file and ownership rights. Art Medium as Material Used in Art Creation In the alternate context, an art medium refers to the specific materials and tools employed by artists to bring their artistic visions to life. The choice of medium significantly influences the aesthetic outcome and the creative process itself. Artists often use it to describe how they created their artwork, which gives a sense of how it needs to be viewed as well. For e.g. Oil paintings ( referenced as "Oil on Canvas") are best observed from a distance to get a more clearer understanding and the depth of the Art. Again depending on the Category of work there are different materials used to fulfill the Artistic vision of the creator. Here are some examples of art mediums in the context of Material Used Paints: Artists use various types of paints, including oil paints, watercolors, acrylics, and gouache, each with its own characteristics and techniques. These pigments, when combined with binders, allow artists to manipulate color, texture, and opacity on different surfaces. A combination of the paint type and the support used form the Medium used for the artwork, for e.g. Oil on Canvas, Gouache on paper, Acrylic on Linen etc... Drawing Tools: Pencils, pens, charcoal, markers, and pastels are all examples of drawing tools that artists employ. These tools vary in hardness, texture, and line quality, enabling artists to create intricate details or bold, expressive strokes. Sculpting Materials: Sculptors utilize a plethora of materials such as stone, wood, metal, clay, plastic, and even unconventional materials like ice or food. Each material offers its unique qualities, texture, and potential for manipulation. Cameras and Photographic Equipment: With the advent of photography, cameras and photographic equipment became vital art mediums. Film cameras, digital cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and photo-editing software all contribute to the creation of photographic art. Printmaking Supplies: Printmaking relies on materials like printing plates, inks, brayers, and printing presses. These tools facilitate the transfer of images from the plate to the chosen substrate, resulting in distinct prints with their own visual characteristics. Clay and Kilns: Ceramics artists employ different types of clay, glazes, and firing techniques to shape and fire their creations. The firing process in kilns transforms the raw materials into durable and visually captivating ceramic pieces. Fabrics and Threads: Textile artists utilize a wide range of fabrics, threads, dyes, and surface design techniques to create intricate tapestries, clothing, quilts, or fiber-based sculptures. The choice of fabric and the application of techniques contribute to the overall visual and tactile impact of the artwork. The Importance of Art Medium The medium that an artist chooses to work with can have a significant impact on the style and meaning of the artwork. For example, a painting made with oil paints will have a different look and feel than a painting made with watercolors. The medium can also affect the way that the viewer interacts with the artwork, an example being, a sculpture that is made from metal will feel different to the touch than a sculpture that is made from wood. The art medium is of utmost importance in the representation of art as it influences the aesthetics, technical possibilities, symbolic significance, and cultural context of an artwork. It allows artists to express their vision, engage viewers, and communicate their intended messages effectively. The careful consideration and deliberate selection of the art medium contribute to the overall artistic expression and impact of the artwork.Different art mediums have evolved throughout history and across cultures, reflecting the societal and historical context in which they originated. The selection of a particular medium can evoke associations and references to specific art movements, traditions, or periods. The Future of Art Mediums The art world is constantly evolving, and new art mediums are being developed all the time. For example, digital art is becoming increasingly popular, as artists use computers and other digital tools to create their work. It is impossible to predict what the future holds for art mediums. However, it is likely that new art mediums will continue to be developed, and that artists will continue to experiment with different materials and techniques. It's important to note that the future of art mediums will be shaped by the creativity and experimentation of artists themselves, as they continue to push boundaries, embrace new technologies, and explore innovative approaches to art-making. The possibilities are vast, and the future of art mediums for visual artists holds exciting potential for artistic expression and engagement with audiences. Digital, Augmented and Virtual Realities, Mixed Media, Eco-Friendly Materials, BioArt and Living Materials, all are being explored, included and evolved for Artists to continously push the boundaries of their creative abilities to produce thought provoking artworks. Conclusion In the realm of art, the term "art medium" embraces a dual meaning. It encompasses both the categorization of art forms and the materials employed by artists. The category of art medium reflects the different disciplines and techniques artists employ to create their work, while the material aspect highlights the tangible tools and substances used to manifest their creative visions. Artists' choices of medium significantly influence the visual, tactile, and conceptual qualities of their artworks. Furthermore, contemporary artists often push the boundaries of traditional mediums by exploring hybrid forms and incorporating new technologies. Understanding the significance of art medium enhances our appreciation for the diverse expressions and the innovative approaches artists employ in their creative endeavors.

RTISTIQ TEAM

28 Jun 2023

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The Lowbrow art movement, also known as pop surrealism, has emerged as a captivating and distinctive artistic movement that challenges traditional norms and blurs the boundaries between high and low culture. Rooted in the rebellious spirit of underground art scenes, Lowbrow art has gained recognition for its unique characteristics, diverse subject matter, and ability to engage viewers with its whimsical, provocative, and often dark narratives. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Lowbrow art movement, exploring its defining characteristics and its profound impact on contemporary art. Origin of Lowbrow Art The origin of Lowbrow art can be traced back to the 1970s in Southern California, specifically in the Los Angeles area. The movement emerged as a response to the dominant art trends of the time and sought to challenge the elitism and exclusivity of the traditional art world. The term "Lowbrow" itself was coined by artist Robert Williams, who used it to describe his own artistic style. Williams, along with other like-minded artists, felt disconnected from the mainstream art scene, which heavily favored abstract expressionism and minimalism. They found inspiration in underground comics, hot rod culture, and other elements of popular and counter-culture. Robert Williams, claims the copyright on the word "Lowbrow" The influence of underground comics, particularly artists such as Robert Crumb, played a significant role in shaping the aesthetics and subject matter of Lowbrow art. These comics often featured satirical, irreverent, and subversive content that resonated with the countercultural movements of the time. The Lowbrow art movement sought to challenge the elitism and exclusivity of highbrow art by incorporating popular culture, comic books, graffiti, street art, and subcultural elements into its visual vocabulary. Rejecting the notion that art should solely focus on lofty concepts or traditional techniques, Lowbrow artists celebrate the kitsch, the strange, and the marginalized, creating a rich tapestry of visually engaging and accessible works. Purple as an Inexplicable Poetic Force, 2015, oil on canvas, courtesy LSU Museum of Art Characteristics of Lowbrow Art Pop Culture Influence: Lowbrow art draws heavily from popular culture, including comic books, cartoons, science fiction, B-movies, and advertising. It embraces the iconography and symbols of these mediums, using them to tell stories, subvert expectations, and critique societal norms. One prominent characteristic of Lowbrow art is its subversion of traditional artistic norms. By appropriating and recontextualizing pop culture imagery, Lowbrow artists challenge the conventional notions of high art, blurring the line between fine art and popular entertainment. This fusion of high and low culture creates a playful and accessible aesthetic that resonates with a broad audience. Skillful Execution: Though often labeled as "low," the technical proficiency of Lowbrow art is noteworthy. Many Lowbrow artists possess strong foundational skills, blending traditional techniques with contemporary approaches. This fusion allows for highly detailed and imaginative creations that captivate viewers with their level of craftsmanship. Lowbrow art encompasses a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, including painting, sculpture, illustration, and digital art. The artists employ a variety of techniques, such as hyperrealism, surrealism, and cartooning, to bring their visions to life. The meticulous attention to detail and the mastery of various mediums demonstrate the artistic prowess of Lowbrow practitioners. Playful and Whimsical Imagery: Lowbrow art often features surreal, whimsical, and fantastical imagery. Artists freely explore the realm of imagination, creating dreamlike scenarios, anthropomorphized characters, and surreal juxtapositions. This infusion of playful elements injects a sense of wonder and joy into the art, captivating audiences with its otherworldly charm. The whimsical nature of Lowbrow art allows viewers to escape the constraints of reality and enter a world of fantasy and possibility. The imagery is often marked by vibrant colors, exaggerated proportions, and fantastical landscapes, transporting viewers to a realm where anything is possible. Dark and Subversive Undertones: While Lowbrow art embraces the playful, it also delves into the darker aspects of human existence. It explores themes of alienation, social commentary, and the human psyche. Through a blend of humor, satire, and irony, Lowbrow artists invite viewers to confront uncomfortable truths, offering a critique of societal norms and challenging established narratives. Lowbrow art often serves as a platform for social and political commentary, tackling issues such as consumerism, environmental degradation, and cultural stereotypes. It exposes the contradictions and absurdities of contemporary society, encouraging viewers to question the status quo and examine their own beliefs and values. Narrative-driven Artworks: Lowbrow art often tells stories, presenting viewers with intricate narratives and inviting them to interpret the visual tales within the artwork. These narratives can be personal, social, or cultural, provoking thought and sparking conversations around the artwork's underlying themes. Lowbrow artists employ storytelling techniques to engage viewers on a deeper level. The narratives within the artworks may be cryptic, leaving room for individual interpretation and multiple layers of meaning. The stories can be fantastical, symbolic, or even autobiographical, allowing viewers to form personal connections with the art and its themes. Influence and Impact The Lowbrow art movement has had a significant impact on the art world and popular culture. Initially relegated to underground galleries and alternative spaces, Lowbrow art has gained recognition and acceptance in mainstream art institutions. Its unique blend of technical skill, popular culture references, and thought-provoking narratives has resonated with audiences around the world, appealing to both art enthusiasts and those outside the traditional art sphere. Moreover, Lowbrow art has influenced and shaped other contemporary art forms, such as street art, illustration, and graphic design. It has blurred the lines between high and low culture, challenging the notion of what constitutes "legitimate" art. By incorporating elements from subcultures, comics, and street art, Lowbrow has breathed new life into the art scene, fostering creativity, diversity, and inclusivity. Conclusion The Lowbrow art movement, with its distinctive characteristics and diverse subject matter, has carved a unique place for itself in the contemporary art landscape. By embracing popular culture, subverting artistic norms, and incorporating whimsical and dark elements, Lowbrow art captivates viewers and invites them to explore new realms of imagination and thought. Through its playful and accessible aesthetic, Lowbrow art has challenged the elitism of the art world, blurring the boundaries between high and low culture. It has inspired a new generation of artists, encouraging them to break free from traditional artistic conventions and explore their own unique voices. The influence of Lowbrow art extends beyond the boundaries of the art world, permeating popular culture and shaping contemporary visual aesthetics. Its impact can be seen in street art, illustration, graphic design, and even fashion.As the Lowbrow art movement continues to evolve and push artistic boundaries, it serves as a testament to the power of art to challenge, provoke, and inspire. By embracing the unconventional and celebrating the extraordinary in the ordinary, Lowbrow art reminds us of the boundless possibilities of artistic expression and the enduring impact it can have on our society and culture.

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25 Jun 2023

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