Discussion 1
Answer the following questions using vocabulary and ideas from Lectures 10, 11, & 12 and textbook Chapters 6,7,8, and 12, . Please make sure each answer is thoughtful, edited for grammar and spelling errors, and at least 4-5 COMPLETE sentences. Be as specific as possible and use examples to support EVERY statement. Write your answers in your own words (not taken directly from your readings or outside resources). A grading rubric is attached to this assignment.
1. Conception, gestation, and birth have been the subject of narrative art since early human history. The artworks, ranging from small figurines to large scale sculpture, visualized the mystery & fascination of reproduction. In fact, reproduction is one of the earliest themes to emerge in the art historical record that occurred across time and cultures. Chapter 6 introduced myriad artworks dating to the Paleolithic period to more contemporary works. Choose 3 artworks from the textbook that date from different periods and cultures to compare. What do the artworks have in common? What are some differences? What do you attribute the differences to? Is it a personal choice by the artist? Are the differences more cultural?
2. In Lecture 11 and textbook Chapter 12 (Clan) introduced you to the potlatch ceremony of the Northwest Coast Native people. What is the function of 1) potlatch dishes, such as Stan Wamiss’ Halibut Feast Dish (fig. 5.20); 2) potlatch hats (Lecture 11); and 3) totem/crest poles, such as Arthur Shaughnessy’s Interior House Post (fig. 12.15)? What do the three artforms have in common.
3. As stated in Chapter 7, many religions do not have images of God or any holy person. Instead some religions, such as Islam, places of worship are adorned with decorative, abstract patterns rather than realistic representations of their deity/deities. Does the lack of religious icons take away from the spiritual experience? Why or why not? Why do some religions forbid depictions of their deities while others do not?
4. Life, death, and the afterlife are universal concerns expressed in artworks that span time and cultures. What are the five purposes for creating tombs or commemorative artworks outlined in Chapter 8? Choose an artwork from the textbook that aligns with each of the five purposes and explain how it expresses each concern. You should choose a different artwork for each of the five purposes.