Here are the most important terms we will be using throughout this year's study; please be sure you get well acquainted with all of them:
- THEME: the general content of the artwork (general aspect/subject) (e.g. the landscape)
- SUBJECT-MATTER: the sum of identifiable objects, persons, places, references in the artwork (e.g. the rosegarden)
- MEANING (or, CONTENT): is revealed through interpretation; sometimes the title may be of help, but most often than not, it is revealed through careful iconographic and/or iconological interpretation
- ICONOGRAPHY: the overt or hidden symbolism in the artwork, rendered through images (signs, symbols)
- ICONOLOGY: the meaning revealed through the study of the cultural, social, historical background of the artwork (through literary, historical, etc., texts)
- DESCRIBING ART: the verbal pointing to the features; a means of gathering the support for interpretations; it concerns the subject matter, the most expressive formal elements; the principles of design, etc.
- ANALYSING ART: explaining how the described elements get their meanings, the artist's choices; inferring meaning; evaluating technique
- INTERPRETING ART: a most important and complex activity; the arriving at the meaning of the artwork by employing different strategies of interpreting based on the information gathered through iconographical and iconological insights
- EVALUATING ART: determining how good the artwork is, according to some criteria, either clearly stated, or implied, while providing reasons and evidence for judgments
Task: Watch the video. What is the role of iconography, and how does it work?
Deadline: Oct 23
The Iconography of Art is basically a thing wherein imagery and symbols from an artwork focus more closely on meaning than the artwork itself. Its purpose is to explain the image as peculiarities that are cultural, religious or mythological in their origin, often drawing on external texts or traditions to explain them adequately.
ReplyDeleteTo achieve that goal, Iconography tries to explain and define these symbols, overt or inscribed in a work of art, png place to integrate them into the cultural traditions. Thus, for example, Christ in a number of Christian art representations is a lamb, while in classical mythology, Aphrodite is a dove. The procedure involves an identification of the inter- to orient the investigation towards those images and objects that are important for the theme of the artwork.
The major focus in this case is to get toiconography allows the viewer to go deeper into the meaning of the artwork by looking at the symbols and their culture surrounding a certain piece and therefore it is very useful when interpreting works which contain myths or historical events.
Cesarato Diana-Antonella, painting department
ReplyDeleteIconography in artwork refers to the visual images and symbols that convey deeper meanings beyond their appearance. It plays a crucial role in helping viewers understand and interpret art by focusing on how these images connect to meanings from sources outside the artwork itself. Through established symbols, artists can express complex themes and stories, allowing viewers to uncover the underlying messages in the artwork.
Different cultures and religious traditions have their own sets of symbols that carry specific meanings. For example, in Christian art, the lamb symbolizes Christ, while the dove represents the Holy Spirit.
Studying iconography can provide insights into the historical and cultural contexts of a piece, revealing the values and beliefs of the time when it was created. This external reference helps shape the narrative of the artwork.
While elements like form, style, and color are important for understanding a painting, iconography adds another layer of depth.
The dynamic relationship between the imagery and its external meanings invites viewers to interpret the artwork through existing cultural and historical narratives, enriching their understanding.
Duma Anda Mara - Graphics department
ReplyDeleteIconography is the study and interpretation of visual symbols, particularly in art with various cultural contexts. Its role is to communicate ideas and reflect cultural beliefs. This association between symbols and subject is used to represent concepts, emotions, or ideas: a dove might symbolize peace, but accompanied by a woman can suggest the presence of the goddess Aphrodite. Artists may use specific motifs to represent events, myths, or religious narratives, which helps analyze and understand the intent and depth behind the imagery. Iconography is a powerful communication tool, allowing artists and cultures to express complex ideas visually, while its interpretation is shaped by various contextual factors.
My name is Catriscau Răzvan and I am a student at the Department of History and Theory of Art, 2nd year. Iconography investigates the deeper meaning of an image, having as its object of study what lies beyond the formal morphological analysis of a work of art, dealing with the symbols, metaphors and references that the artist places in the work. Iconography also deals with the relationship of these elements to each other and with the message that placed together in a work can offer to the public. It can also be an iconography configured by the artist, and then the role of the iconographer is to analyze the symbols in the work in context with the artist's life or with his writings.
ReplyDeleteBolog Andreea-Patricia, Graphics Department, second year.
ReplyDeleteWhat is Iconography and how does it work?
Iconography is the use of pictures, symbols, and images to explain or represent a subject. It focuses on the meaning behind what is shown, rather than how it looks or is created. The meaning comes from specific systems or symbols chosen by the artist. For example, in Christian iconography, certain symbols have clear meanings: "the lamb" which represents Christ or "the Dove" which stands for the Holy Spirit. These symbols help convey deeper ideas and stories through visual elements.
Iconography is often used in traditional and religious art to communicate important messages. However, it works differently in modern or abstract art. Modern artists focus more on visual style, illustration, or the relationship between text and images, rather than attaching specific symbolic meanings to their work. This makes iconography a unique tool for understanding art that relies on symbols and deeper meanings.
Andra Moldovan, ITA Department, second year
ReplyDeleteIconography is the study and use of visual symbols, images, and motifs to represent a subject, convey meaning, or tell a story. It plays a vital role in understanding and interpreting works of art, particularly those created in cultural, historical, or religious contexts. By focusing on the meaning behind visual elements, rather than their aesthetic qualities or technical execution, iconography reveals deeper layers of significance in art.
serban anouk-irina, ceramica-sticla-metal, anul 3, restanta anul 2 sem 1 si 2
ReplyDeleteIconography involves identifying and analyzing the symbols within an artwork. These symbols can be overt or concealed and serve to convey deeper meanings beyond mere visual representation. For example, an image of a lion might symbolize courage or nobility, depending on the context.
Iconography often contributes to the narrative aspect of an artwork. Symbols can weave together stories and themes, allowing viewers to grasp the overarching messages that the artist may be conveying. For instance, the presence of certain objects in a still life can suggest a moral or philosophical theme.
The first step to identifying symbols involves closely examining the artwork to identify symbols, images, and recurring motifs. This may require knowledge of specific iconographic conventions (e.g., identifying saints by their attributes in religious art). Afterwards researching historical documents, literary texts, or cultural beliefs can provide valuable insights into the iconography’s significance. these insights are synthesized to arrive at a more comprehensive interpretation of the artwork’s themes and meanings.
serban anouk-irina, ceramica-sticla-metal, anul 3, restanta anul 2 sem 1 si 2
ReplyDeleteIconography involves identifying and analyzing the symbols within an artwork. These symbols can be overt or concealed and serve to convey deeper meanings beyond mere visual representation. For example, an image of a lion might symbolize courage or nobility, depending on the context.
Iconography often contributes to the narrative aspect of an artwork. Symbols can weave together stories and themes, allowing viewers to grasp the overarching messages that the artist may be conveying. For instance, the presence of certain objects in a still life can suggest a moral or philosophical theme.
The first step to identifying symbols involves closely examining the artwork to identify symbols, images, and recurring motifs. This may require knowledge of specific iconographic conventions (e.g., identifying saints by their attributes in religious art). Afterwards researching historical documents, literary texts, or cultural beliefs can provide valuable insights into the iconography’s significance. these insights are synthesized to arrive at a more comprehensive interpretation of the artwork’s themes and meanings.