COMMUNICATIVE PURPOSE: to theorize/speculate about:
-causes + /- effects
-particular meanings
-artist's choices
-possible developments, etc
Theorizing = performing an inferential type of mental activity (moving from particular items to general ideas), whose result is a thesis that must be supported by several points of proof
DISCOURSE STRATEGIES (that can be used when developing points of proof):
- explaining viewer's reactions
- formal analysis
- comparing works/artists/features
- historical/anecdotal narratives
- exemplification
- quoting/paraphrasing
- paradox, etc
STANDARD MOVE-STRUCTURE:
MOVE I: introducing the subject, thesis, list of points of proof
Step 1: Introducing the subject (title of work, artist, context of creation)
Step 2: stating the thesis: one complete, unified statement, limited to one aspect only, general enough to ask for support, defensible, not too obvious
Step 3: stating the points of proof (2-3) intended to be used in order to support the thesis
MOVE II: developing the points of proof
Step 1: developing the first point of proof
Step 2: developing the 2nd point of proof
Step 3: developing the 3rd point of proof
MOVE III: concluding by evaluating the measure in which the points of proof have demonstrated the thesis
MOVE IV: Works cited (whenever one uses bibliography)
Task 1. Comment on the way the theses and the points of proof were formulated and developed in the two texts we have read in class (1. The African Influences in Brancusi's Work by Paul Stoie and 2. Idea for Sale by Oana Boca). Which of them appears to you more convincing and why?
Task 2. Try to formulate a thesis and a list of points of proof on a subject of your choice.
Deadline: December 10
BRANCUSI
Newborn
The First Cry
The First Step
Dracea Luca-Vlad
ReplyDeleteAnul 2 Licenta
Foto-Video
Task 1
African influences in Brâncuși’s work.
Thesis: A clear, focused, and justifiable thesis stating that certain characteristics of Brâncuși sculpture result from a subtle dialogue with African sculpture, especially regarding the stylization of form and the spiritualization of volume.
The thesis is unified and does not attempt to cover all of Brâncuși, but concentrates on a single aspect: African influence. Development of demonstration points: The text uses three main strategies:
Formal analysis comparing Brâncuși’s forms with elements of African sculpture: simplification of features, vertical axis, massiveness. Historical context mentioning the contact that Parisian avant-garde artists had with African art and how this encounter produced an aesthetic revolution. Concrete examples works such as The Kiss, The Wisdom of the Earth, and The Maiastra are discussed individually.
Strength of the demonstration:
The argumentation is coherent and well-structured, progressing logically from particular to general. The formal analyses are convincing because they rely on clear visual examples. Art as a Marketable Idea Thesis:
A more essayistic thesis, suggesting that the value of a work of art depends on the mechanisms of the market and of promotion, not solely on the intrinsic qualities of the artwork.
The thesis is interesting but broader and sometimes diffuse, as it mixes social observations, irony, cultural marketing, and speculations about the status of the artist.
Elements used:
Anecdotes from the art world—often employed to illustrate the arbitrary nature of success.
Examples of artists turned into brands, implying that their value is the product of commercial discourse.
Sociological analysis of the relationship among the public, galleries, and institutions.
Strength of the demonstration:
The text is more persuasive than demonstrative, relying on an ironic tone rather than formal analysis. The arguments are not always systematically developed.
Task 2
The role of light in Caravaggio's painting.
Thesis: Light as a dramatic tool:
Caravaggio uses chiaroscuro to build narrative tension and lead the eye to essential moments of the action.
Light as a means of psychological characterization:
Selective lighting reveals the inner feelings of the characters, suggesting vulnerability, revelation or moral conflict.
Light as a strategy of resacralization:
The violent contrast between shadow and light transforms biblical scenes into immediate sensory experiences, bringing the sacred into the everyday life of the Baroque viewer.
"La Clairvoyance" is one of the most revealing and conceptual works by *René Magritte* (1898-1967), a master of surrealism.which was painted in 1936 as self-portrait. The title itself, "La Clairvoyance", suggests the key to interpretation, inviting the viewer to look beyond mere representation.
ReplyDeleteThesiss:"La Clairvoyance" by René Magritte illustrates the surrealist artist's vision that transcends the simple imitation of reality, affirming that true creation consists in revealing and materializing the hidden potential of the subject ,the transformation of the egg into a bird, thus defining the artist as a visionary.
The work depicts Magritte, dressed in a sober suit, seated at an easel. In front of him, on a table covered with a red cloth, stands an isolated egg – a traditional subject for still life and a symbol of unfulfilled potential. The artist’s gaze is fixed on this egg, but his brush, in the midst of the creative process on the canvas, does not sketch the image of the egg. Instead, Magritte paints a bird in flight, already formed, as if it had emerged from the egg and acquired life. This juxtaposition creates a visual paradox that is central to Magritte’s work: the discrepancy between the visible model (the egg) and the artistic result (the bird) nullifies the artist’s role as a simple imitator of reality.
1. The Artist as Visionary
"La Clairvoyance" can be interpreted as a statement of Magritte's artistic philosophy. By painting the future of the egg, he defines himself not as a portrait or landscape painter, but as a visionary or a clairvoyant. The artist is not limited to tangible reality and he has the ability to see into the future or potential of his subject.
2. The Relationship Between Perception and Creation
Magritte explores the question: What does the artist's eye really see? It is not a simple photographic record, but a process of mental transformation. The final image is not a replica of the object (the egg), but a manifestation of its idea, its essence, its dynamic potential. This aligns with the spirit of “Surrealism”, which emphasized the subconscious, dreams, and non-conformist logic to reveal a deeper reality, the "super-reality."
3. Transformation and Potential
The egg represents the beginning, the raw material, the potential. The bird symbolizes fulfillment, freedom, the final creation. The transfer from egg to bird on the canvas is a metaphor for the creative process.
Despite its paradoxical subject matter, "La Clairvoyance" is painted in Magritte's characteristic academic, hyperrealistic style. The details are precise, the shadows are sharp, creating a sense of realism that, ironically, makes the surreal situation all the more disturbing.
"La Clairvoyance" is not just a self-portrait, but an ode to the power of the creative mind. Through the simple juxtaposition of an egg and a bird, René Magritte manages to synthesize an entire philosophy: that *the true vision of the artist transcends what is seen* and reveals the mystery and magic of the hidden potential of things.
Task 1
ReplyDeleteWhen comparing the way the theses and points of proof are formulated in the two texts—Oana Boca’s Idea for Sale and Paul Stoie’s African Influences in Brâncuși’s Work—it becomes clear that the second text is more convincing in its academic structure and argumentative strength. Oana Boca opens with an engaging introduction and presents a thesis that suggests “selling art is an art,” but the statement is somewhat broad and functions more like a thematic observation than a clearly limited, arguable claim. Her points of proof read mainly as steps in a design process, and although they are illustrated through vivid narration and exemplification, they work more as explanations than as argumentative statements that logically defend the thesis. By contrast, Paul Stoie’s text begins with a well-defined historical context and presents a thesis that is precise, focused, and genuinely debatable: that Brâncuși was influenced by African art throughout his career, despite publicly denying it. His points of proof are structured as distinct arguments—stylistic influence, technical borrowing, and even the significance of Brâncuși’s denial—and each is supported by specific artworks, scholarly references, and direct citations. This turns the essay into a coherent demonstration of the thesis rather than a descriptive summary. While Oana Boca’s text is lively and clear, Paul Stoie’s follows the required move-structure more rigorously, uses stronger argumentative logic, and builds a more persuasive case overall.
Task 2
Vincent van Gogh’s 1889 painting The Starry Night was created during his stay at the Saint-Rémy asylum, a period of emotional turbulence and artistic experimentation.
Thesis
In The Starry Night, Van Gogh transforms a nocturnal landscape into a psychological landscape, using expressive distortions and color to convey his inner emotional state rather than a realistic scene.
Points of proof
1. Swirling movement in the sky reflects tension and restlessness.
2. Contrasting colors create emotional tension and mood.
3. Simplified and exaggerated forms show a deliberate focus on inner vision over realistic representation.
Task 1:
ReplyDeleteBoth texts follow the same academic structure—introduction, thesis, points of proof, development, and conclusion—but they use this structure in different ways. The Brancusi text focuses on artistic meaning and influences, while Idea for Sale focuses on practical design process and client communication.
The Brancusi thesis is more interpretive, claiming that African art influenced Brancusi even when he denied it. This requires more explanation and theoretical support, which the author provides through historical references, stylistic analysis, and interpretations of Brancusi’s inner conflicts. The points of proof are more abstract and depend on understanding symbolism, artistic intention, and formal qualities.
In contrast, the thesis in Idea for Sale (“Selling art is an art”) is simpler and easier to prove. The author uses clear examples, especially the parasite-inspired creature, to show how a design idea becomes a product. The points of proof rely on narration, visual explanation, and practical reasoning. Because the examples are concrete, the argument feels more accessible and immediately understandable.
Overall, Idea for Sale is more convincing in terms of clarity and step-by-step logic, while the Brancusi text is more convincing in terms of depth and artistic interpretation. If the goal is to show how well the points of proof directly support the thesis, then Idea for Sale is the stronger and more straightforward text. If the goal is to explore artistic meaning and influence, then the Brancusi text offers a richer, more complex argument.
Task 2:
MOVE I — Introducing the subject, stating the thesis, listing points of proof
Step 1 — Introducing the subject
Paul Stoie’s expository essay African Influences in Brancusi’s Work examines the presence of tribal African aesthetics within the sculpture of Constantin Brancusi, situating the discussion within the broader context of early 20th-century European avant-garde encounters with non-Western art. By combining historical references, formal observations, and documented commentary, the text seeks to reassess the degree to which African art shaped Brancusi’s stylistic development.
Step 2 — Stating the thesis
Stoie’s text is convincing because it constructs a clear, defensible argument supported by concrete examples, authoritative references, and a coherent logical progression that illustrates African influence on Brancusi’s work even where such influence is subtle, denied, or overlooked.
Step 3 — Listing the points of proof
1. This persuasiveness results from:
The strategic use of specific artworks and artistic evolution, which grounds the argument in identifiable, traceable visual evidence.
2. The integration of historical and technical explanations, particularly regarding Brancusi’s adoption of the direct-carving technique, which links his methods to African precedents.
3. The inclusion of critical voices and biographical information, showing that African influence can be detected not only in stylistic choices but also in Brancusi’s own reactions and contradictions.
Task 1.
ReplyDelete1.At the core of the first thesis is the argument that Brâncuși’s sculptural language is shaped by a subtle but significant encounter with African art. Rather than attempting to explain his entire oeuvre, the thesis focuses on a single dimension: how African sculpture inspires his treatment of form, particularly the stylization and spiritualization of volume.
This argument unfolds through three interconnected strategies.
First, the text relies on formal analysis, drawing parallels between Brâncuși’s simplified contours and the essentialized forms found in many African sculptural traditions. Features such as verticality, compact massing, and the reduction of detail are compared convincingly, supported by recognizable works like The Kiss, The Wisdom of the Earth, and The Maiastra.
Second, it situates Brâncuși within the historical context of early 20th-century Paris, where avant-garde artists were discovering non-Western art and absorbing its radical aesthetics. This cultural backdrop strengthens the claim that Brâncuși’s innovations were part of a broader artistic shift.
Finally, the argument gains force from specific visual examples, which make the comparisons concrete rather than abstract. Thanks to this structured approach, the demonstration is coherent, progressive, and persuasive.
2.The second thesis adopts a much broader and more essayistic tone. It proposes that the value attributed to art is shaped less by the inherent qualities of the work than by the market mechanisms that promote it. Here, the text blends sociological reflection, cultural critique, and irony to highlight how artistic fame can become a manufactured product.
Instead of formal analysis, the argument leans on anecdotes and cultural observations: artists treated as brands, the influence of galleries and institutions, and the sometimes arbitrary nature of public taste. These examples emphasize the instability of artistic value, suggesting that recognition is often engineered through promotion and narrative rather than through the artwork’s intrinsic merit.
Although stimulating, this line of reasoning is less tightly constructed. Its persuasive power comes more from tone and attitude than from systematic argumentation, making it feel expansive and occasionally diffuse.
Task 2.
Brâncuși’s Domnișoara Pogany transforms a real portrait into a sculptural expression of inner essence. Although inspired by Margit Pogany, the work moves far beyond individual likeness. Brâncuși reduces the features to simple, graceful shapes—almond-like eyes, a smooth curve for the nose, and only a hint of a mouth,showing his belief that sculpture should reveal spirit, not superficial detail.
The polished bronze surface reinforces this idea. Its reflective quality makes the sculpture feel timeless and almost immaterial, inviting the viewer into a quiet moment of contemplation. The elongated oval head and the vertical posture give the figure a serene, meditative presence, turning the form into something symbolic rather than descriptive.
Through these choices, Brâncuși turns a personal portrait into a universal image of introspection and femininity. Domnișoara Pogany becomes less a representation of one woman and more a pure embodiment of inner calm, perfectly reflecting Brâncuși’s lifelong search for essential form.
Hutter Doris-Maya
ReplyDeleteAnul II Licentă - DESIGN
Task 1.
Paul Stoie’s text is more convincing because it builds a clear academic argument about Brancuși’s connection to African art. He begins by placing Brancusi in the wider early-20th-century context, when European artists discovered tribal objects, and then states a precise thesis: African influence shaped both Brancusi’s early and later works. His points of proof are concrete—analysis of specific sculptures, references to direct-carving techniques borrowed from tribal art, and even Brancusi’s psychological reaction to African “demonic forces.” Each point is supported with historical details and scholarly citations, giving the argument weight. Oana Boca’s text, by contrast, introduces the world of concept art and Feng Zsu’s design process, but her thesis (“selling art is an art”) is more general and her development relies mostly on description and storytelling. She explains how an idea becomes a product, but offers fewer analytical claims and less evidence. While engaging, her text is more illustrative than argumentative. For these reasons, Stoie’s structured evidence and focused analysis make his argument stronger.
Task 2. - Introducing the subject, thesis, and list of points of proof
Step 1 - Introducing the subject
The Wassily Chair (1925), designed by Marcel Breuer at the Bauhaus, was created during a period when designers experimented with industrial materials and modernist principles. Breuer, inspired by bicycle construction and modern manufacturing, created a radically new type of chair that reflected the principles of the Bauhaus: unity of art, technology, and functional design.
Step 2: Stating the thesis
The Wassily Chair revolutionized modern furniture design by demonstrating that industrial materials could be used not only for efficiency but also for aesthetic elegance.
Step 3: Points of proof
1.Breuer’s choice of tubular steel and continuous steel frame became both the structural core and a defining visual element, making the chair an icon of industrial modernity.
2.The chair’s minimal form embodied Bauhaus functionalism while remaining visually striking, showing that elegance can arise from pure function and clarity of form.
3.The use of standardized steel tubing enabled mass production, making the chair affordable and accessible, that redefine the relationship between furniture and industry.
Cătuna Galeș Elena Ilinca
ReplyDeleteITA
Task 1
In African Influences in Brancusi’s Work, Paul Stoie presents a thesis that is simple yet concrete, summarizing the article’s central argument in just a few words. This clarity allows the subsequent arguments to feel more credible and logically developed. The academic structure and formal tone of his writing give the text an elevated, scholarly quality. Despite the complexity and importance of the topic within art history, Stoie maintains a concise, focused style that strengthens the overall effectiveness of his analysis. In contrast, Oana Boca’s Idea for Sale approaches its subject from a very different perspective. Her thesis immediately captures attention by advancing a provocative and less widely accepted idea. However, I believe her use of the term “art” is debatable, as I associate art primarily with the concept of beauty. Boca’s arguments are presented in a more approachable, conversational manner, without strict adherence to academic conventions. This style suits a personal blog or opinion-based article, making the text engaging and accessible. While Stoie’s work serves as a stronger example of academic writing, I appreciate the creative vitality and originality present in Boca’s approach.
Task 2
In 1915, Polish-born artist Kazimir Malevich founded the Russian avant-garde movement known as Suprematism, which aimed to establish the supremacy of pure feeling in art. The world of the Suprematists was conceived as a non-material realm, grounded solely in pure form, geometry, color, and contour, rather than in the representation of physical reality.
Malevich’s work Black Square inaugurated the Suprematist movement in a scandalous yet ingenious manner.
The painting was exhibited in an unusual position: placed high in the corner of the gallery, mimicking the traditional placement of Russian household icons associated with spiritual devotion. This unconventional display sparked significant controversy, which ultimately helped draw attention to and legitimize the movement. The symbolic intent behind this staging was to evoke a mystical ideal, an immaterial, transcendent world free from material concerns.
An additional argument supporting this spiritual thesis lies in Malevich’s complete abandonment of recognizable subject matter. By eliminating figurative imagery altogether, Black Square forces the viewer to engage with the artwork on a purely emotional and contemplative level. Without narrative or representation to guide interpretation, the viewer’s response becomes internal rather than descriptive, aligning directly with Suprematism’s goal of prioritizing pure feeling over material depiction.
Părăuan Francesca Lorelai
ReplyDeleteDepartment: Design
2nd year
Task 1
When comparing the two expository essays, I find that both authors follow the basic structure of stating a thesis and supporting it with several points of proof, but they do so in slightly different ways. In Paul Stoie’s text about African influences in Brancuși’s work, the thesis is very clear, focused, and academically framed: the author argues that Brancuși was influenced by African art not only in his early pieces but throughout his career, even though he denied this connection. This makes the argument easy to follow because it deals with a single idea that can be proven through concrete artistic examples, stylistic details, and historical references. His points of proof are well aligned with the thesis and each one adds a different type of support, from specific artworks connected to African aesthetics to the technical method of direct carving and finally to the psychological interpretation of Brancuși’s denial. The development of these points is solid and supported by citations, which helps make his essay feel more grounded.
Oana Boca’s text, on the other hand, has a more creative and narrative tone. Her thesis—that selling art is an art in itself, as demonstrated in Feng Zsu’s tutorial—sounds catchy but less academic. Her points of proof are more practical and focus on the steps of the design process, such as developing the idea, presenting the concept clearly, and making the final layout visually appealing. She uses storytelling and vivid descriptions, like the example of the parasite-inspired alien creature, which makes the essay engaging but sometimes feels more like a summary of a YouTube episode rather than a strongly argued thesis. Although her explanations are interesting, they drift towards describing the design process instead of arguing for the thesis in a structured way. Overall, even though both texts are effective in their own style, Paul Stoie’s feels more convincing to me because his thesis is clearer, his evidence is more consistent, and the logical connection between his ideas is stronger and more academic.
Task 2
Subject: The Artistic Value of Video Games
Thesis: Video games should be considered a form of art because they combine visual creativity, storytelling, and interactive emotional experience in ways that make them unique among modern artistic mediums.
In thinking about why video games deserve a place in the world of art, the most convincing aspect is their visual creativity. Many games today are built with highly detailed design, imaginative environments, and distinctive artistic styles that can stand alongside digital illustration or even film design. Another reason is the narrative depth that many games now develop; some of them deal with complex themes like memory, moral choice, or personal identity in ways that can be just as powerful as literature or cinema. Finally, video games offer something that traditional arts cannot: interactive emotional engagement. Because players make decisions and influence the storyline, they form a personal bond with the experience, which creates a different level of emotional involvement. For these reasons, video games clearly go beyond entertainment and demonstrate qualities that allow them to be seen and valued as a true artistic form.
Hodiș Thomas
ReplyDeleteDepartment: Design
2nd Year
Task 1
When looking at the two essays, it is easy to notice that each writer approaches the expository structure in a slightly different way, which affects how convincing their arguments feel. In Paul Stoie’s piece about Brancusi, the thesis is very direct and academically formulated, he claims that African art influenced Brancusi throughout his career, even though the sculptor refused to acknowledge it. This statement is narrow enough to be manageable but open enough to require substantial proof, which the author provides through references to Brancusi’s works, technical choices, and comments from art critics. The points of proof are organized logically, and each paragraph clearly supports the thesis with concrete examples, citations, and explanations. This gives the essay a more analytical tone and makes it feel quite structured and reliable.
Oana Boca’s text, by contrast, feels more narrative and informal. Her thesis, that selling art is an art in itself as demonstrated by Feng Zsu’s tutorial, sounds interesting but less academically grounded. Her points of proof lean heavily on storytelling, especially when she recounts the parasite-based inspiration for the creature design. This makes the text vivid and pleasant to read, but at times the examples seem to focus more on describing the design process rather than proving the thesis directly. Her development is more expressive and imaginative, but also less rigorous than Stoie’s. While both texts accomplish the assignment’s structure, I personally find Stoie’s essay more persuasive because it stays closer to an argumentative style and relies more on factual references, which gives his thesis stronger support.
Task 2
Subject: The Role of Public Art in Urban Communities
Thesis: Public art plays an essential role in improving urban communities because it strengthens local identity, encourages social interaction, and transforms ordinary spaces into meaningful cultural landmarks. Public art often becomes a symbol through which people identify with the place they live in, whether it’s a mural, a sculpture, or an installation. These artworks give neighborhoods a distinctive character and can even restore pride in areas that were previously overlooked. Besides identity, public art has the power to bring people together. When residents gather around a new mural or interact with an installation, it naturally creates conversation and shared experiences, which helps build a sense of community. Finally, public art can completely change the feeling of a space. A once dull street or empty wall can turn into something visually appealing and culturally valuable, influencing how people move, think, and feel in their city. For these reasons, public art has a meaningful impact on urban life and contributes to stronger, more connected communities.
Ispir Alexandru-Leonardo, anul 2, Arte Textile-Design Textil
ReplyDeleteTask 1
The two texts we read in class approach their topics in very different ways. In The African Influences in Brancusi’s Work by Paul Stoie, the main idea is clear and focused: African sculpture had a strong impact on Brancusi’s style. Stoie supports this with detailed observations of Brancusi’s works, stories about how he discovered African art, and specific examples of sculptures that show this influence. Everything is connected and easy to follow, which makes the argument convincing.
On the other hand, Idea for Sale by Oana Boca talks about how contemporary artists turn ideas into something people can buy. The text is interesting and full of examples, but sometimes the points feel less connected to the main idea. Some examples illustrate the concept without really analyzing it, which makes the argument a bit weaker. Overall, Stoie’s text feels more convincing because the ideas are clear and each point directly supports the main thesis.
Task 2
Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night, painted in 1889 while he was in the Saint-Rémy asylum, shows a mix of emotional turmoil and spiritual searching. He expresses this through his use of color, lines, and composition. The bright yellows of the stars and moon stand out against the deep blue sky, creating a feeling of tension but also hope. The swirling, energetic brushstrokes give a sense of movement and restlessness, reflecting van Gogh’s inner emotions. At the same time, elements like the cypress tree and the church steeple link the earth to the sky, suggesting a spiritual connection and a search for meaning. Together, these choices show how van Gogh used every part of the painting to express what he was feeling and thinking, making Starry Night a powerful and emotional work.
Oprian Maya Gabriela Design textil anul II:
ReplyDeleteTask 1:
When we look at the two texts we read in class, they approach art in different ways. In “The African Influences in Brancusi's Work” by Paul Stoie, the main idea is that Brancusi was inspired by African art. Stoie supports this idea by comparing specific sculptures to African works, analyzing Brancusi’s choices, and giving historical context. Everything is clearly structured, which makes it easy to follow.
In “Idea for Sale” by Oana Boca, the main idea is that artists can turn ordinary ideas into creative projects. Boca gives examples, anecdotes, and explanations of the creative process. It’s interesting and creative, but the text is less structured and sometimes the points feel more like stories than strong arguments.
Overall, Stoie’s text seems more convincing because he links his thesis to clear evidence and uses careful analysis. Boca’s text is fun and inspiring, but less formal, which makes the argument weaker.
Task 2:
Leonardo da Vinci is famous for his ability to communicate ideas and emotions through his paintings. The thesis is that Leonardo’s use of composition, gestures, and details allows viewers to understand the meaning and emotion in his works.
First, his balanced composition guides the viewer’s eye and highlights important moments. In The Last Supper, the apostles are arranged so that attention naturally falls on Christ, emphasizing the drama of the scene.
Second, expressive gestures and facial expressions reveal emotions. Each apostle reacts differently, showing surprise, doubt, or devotion. In the Mona Lisa, her subtle smile and calm look suggest mystery and inner thought.
Finally, symbolic details add meaning. In Mona Lisa, the landscape, lighting, and hand placement convey serenity and complexity, helping viewers interpret her emotions and personality.
Bârlea Georgiana-Ioana,
ReplyDeleteFoto-Video (2nd year)
For credits
Task 1 , Text 1
Stoie’s thesis is relatively clear and conventional: Constantin Brancusi’s sculptural language was significantly shaped by African art, particularly through its emphasis on abstraction, essential forms, and spiritual symbolism.
The thesis is defensible, focused on a single aspect (influence), and broad enough to require sustained proof.
Stoie structures his argument around several recognizable points of proof:
Formal similarities between African sculptures and Brancusi’s works (simplification of forms, stylization, material treatment).
Historical context, emphasizing Brancusi’s exposure to African art in early 20th-century Paris.
Conceptual affinities, such as shared spiritual or ritualistic functions of art.
The points are developed primarily through formal analysis and comparison, supported by historical anecdotes and references to exhibitions and collections. Viewer reactions are implicitly addressed through the notion of “primitive” aesthetics challenging Western academic norms. The argument is cumulative and linear, which reinforces its scholarly tone.
The text is convincing because its thesis is consistently supported, though it risks oversimplification by potentially underplaying Brancusi’s originality or other influences.
Text 2
Boca’s thesis is more implicit and provocative: in contemporary art, the idea itself has become a commodified object, sometimes detached from material execution or artistic authenticity.
Unlike Stoie’s, this thesis is less explicitly stated, emerging gradually through examples and reflections.
Her supporting points include:
Examples of conceptual artworks where the idea outweighs the object.
Critical commentary on the art market, which prioritizes novelty and marketability.
Paradoxical situations in which originality is claimed but endlessly replicated.
Boca uses exemplification, paradox, and critical narrative rather than formal analysis. The viewer’s reaction—confusion, skepticism, or irony—is directly addressed, becoming part of the argument itself. The discourse feels exploratory and essayistic rather than systematic.
While intellectually stimulating, the argument can feel less rigorous because the points of proof are not always clearly delimited or hierarchized.
Overall, Paul Stoie’s text appears more convincing, mainly because of the clarity with which the thesis is stated and the disciplined way in which the points of proof are developed. His use of formal analysis and historical context creates a strong inferential chain from evidence to general claim.
However, Oana Boca’s text is more engaging conceptually, especially for contemporary readers, even if its persuasive force relies more on rhetorical effect than systematic demonstration.
Task 2.
Picasso, Guernica (1937) illustrates how a historical event can be transformed into a universal statement against war. The fragmented and distorted figures visually translate physical pain and psychological trauma, making suffering appear collective rather than individual. The black-and-white palette removes realism and emotional warmth, evoking mourning and timelessness instead of heroic action. Finally, the disordered composition, with no clear focal point, reflects the chaos and moral confusion produced by modern warfare. Together, these elements support the idea that Guernica functions less as a narrative of one event and more as a general condemnation of war itself.
Task 1
ReplyDeleteBetween the two texts "The African Influencers in Brancusi' Work" by Paul Stoie and "Idea for Sale" by Oana Boca, the second one seems in my opinion more convincing than the first for the larger and clearer elaboration of the text. Both use the same structure and are well formulated but the difference is still visible.
From a different perspective Brancusi's text is following a more artistic and meaningful path is more expressive and it gives the reader an opening to understand his art origins and expand they're perspective on Brancusi's art.
Although the first text is more expresive the second one "The Idea for Sale"is more convincing for the utility of the subject and for the different perspective that It presents.It helps us understand that in today's society the idea of art can be expanded in different directions.
Task 2
The proces of creating games designs or films is a form of art itself and it should be considered art since is created with meaning combined with an artist sense of creativity and ideas.
Video games have received a massive recognition over the years for they're creative and fun form of entertainment but also for the impresive creativity and ideas of the game designers.
An artist is someone that put meaning, creativity and hard work to infiltrate they're perspective and ideas into the world and so game designs from a personal opinion are art works in a different way but that follows a similar criteria.
Another point that can sustain the argument are the visual effects and imaginery that these designer create in order to create good quality games. They're work is well appreciated by a lot of people who find beauty even from a different point of view.
In conclusion, game designing can be considered an artistic form of expression for the impresive quality of work and creativity that is put into it.
Peterfi Maria- Sara
ReplyDeletemoda-design vestimentar
Task 1
Both texts follow the theorizing model, but they differ in clarity and persuasive force. In The African Influences in Brancusi’s Work, Paul Stoie formulates a clear and nuanced thesis, arguing that Brancusi assimilated African formal principles rather than imitating them. This thesis is supported through formal analysis, comparison with African artifacts, and historical context, which are coherently developed and logically connected. The points of proof reinforce one another and gradually build a convincing argument. By contrast, in Idea for Sale, Oana Boca’s thesis is more implicit and fragmented, relying heavily on anecdotal and ironic strategies. While engaging, the points of proof sometimes lack systematic development and weaken the argumentative structure. Therefore, Stoie’s text appears more convincing due to its analytical rigor and well-articulated support of the thesis.
Task 2
One possible subject of analysis is Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits. The thesis could be that Kahlo uses self-portraiture as a means of constructing a hybrid identity shaped by pain, culture, and self-mythologizing. This thesis may be supported by three points of proof: first, the repeated depiction of physical suffering through symbolic imagery; second, the use of Mexican folk elements to assert cultural identity; and third, the direct gaze and frontal composition that confront the viewer. Through formal analysis and exemplification, these elements suggest that Kahlo’s self-portraits function less as realistic likenesses and more as deliberate acts of self-definition.
Fenesan Jasmina-Alexia
ReplyDeleteDesign
2nd Year
Task 1:
Although alike in structure the, two texts "Idea for sale" by Oana Boca and "African influences in Brancusi's work" by Paul Stoie, differ greatly in the means they use to persuade the reader. Paul Stoie follows a more conventional path, formulating a concrete, nuanced thesis which he then defends with strong arguments, based on formal analysis. The comparisons he makes between Brancusi's work and African artifacts show clear similarities between the two, both in technique as well as in essence. The historical context he then provides makes clear the inspiration Brancusi drew form said artifacts. His arguments support and strenghten one another, creating a persuasive argument in the process.
Oana Boca's work, on the other hand, takes a more contemporary approach which, although not as analytically strong, creates engaging arguments and a surprisingly convincing read. First of all, her thesis is built gradually throughout the text rather than stated, emerging through the use of elements such as reflections. The use of this technique, if one can call it that, makes the thesis that much more provocative, challenging the reader. Secondly, her points of proof rely on the paradoxical and anecdotal, which although less convincing from an analytic perspective, connect much more deeply with readers.
Personally, I believe that "Idea for sale" was a more convincing read than "African Influences in Brancusi's work", not because of the solid proof it presented, but because it was more engaging. Even so, from an analytic perspective, the latter proves to be a more rigorous, well supported text.
Lovasz-Pager Andrea, Conservare si restaurare, anul 2.
ReplyDeleteTASK 1 – Comment on theses and points of proof in Stoie and Boca
In The African Influences in Brancusi's Work by Paul Stoie, the thesis is clearly stated: Brancusi’s sculptural style was significantly shaped by African art, which can be seen in his use of abstraction, simplified forms, and emphasis on essence rather than detailed representation. The points of proof are well-developed and supported by specific examples, such as comparisons between African sculptures and Brancusi’s The Beginning of the World and Newborn. Stoie uses discourse strategies like formal analysis, historical narratives, and exemplification to substantiate his thesis, which makes his argument both structured and persuasive.
In Idea for Sale by Oana Boca, the thesis revolves around the concept of artistic ideas as commodities, exploring how artists negotiate originality and commercial value. The points of proof include contemporary examples of art markets, case studies of specific artists, and comparisons between different art practices. Boca employs strategies such as quoting, paraphrasing, and exemplification, effectively linking theory with practical observations.
Personally, I find Stoie’s text more convincing because the thesis is tightly focused and each point of proof directly reinforces it, using clear visual and historical evidence. Boca’s argument is insightful and relevant to contemporary art discussions, but it sometimes feels broader and less tightly structured, making the connections between points of proof and the thesis slightly less immediate.
TASK 2 – Formulating a thesis and points of proof
Subject: The use of color to convey emotion in contemporary painting
Thesis: In contemporary painting, artists use color strategically to evoke specific emotions and influence viewers’ interpretations.
Points of proof:
Emotional contrast: bright, warm colors such as red and orange can create feelings of energy and excitement, while cool colors like blue and green convey calmness or melancholy.
Symbolic associations: colors can carry cultural or personal symbolism that adds depth to the narrative, such as white representing purity or black suggesting mourning.
Interaction with composition: the placement and proportion of colors within a painting guide the viewer’s eye and enhance the intended emotional impact.
This thesis could be developed further through examples of works by contemporary artists, formal analysis of color schemes, and comparisons across different painting styles to illustrate how color functions as a communicative tool.
Rus Denisa Maria
ReplyDeleteAnul 3 conservare-restaurare
Task 1
Paul Stoie’s essay on African influences in Brâncuși is clear and convincing. He explains how African sculpture inspired Brâncuși’s simplified forms and spiritual approach. The examples he gives, like The Kiss and Maiastra, show exactly what he means. I find his argument logical and easy to follow. On the other hand, Oana Boca’s essay about art as a marketable idea is interesting and creative, but sometimes the points feel scattered and less supported.
Task 2
When I look at Monet’s Water Lilies, I feel relaxed, almost as if I’m drifting on the surface of the pond. The soft blues, greens, and touches of pink mix gently, and the water’s reflections give the scene a sense of life. His brushstrokes are free and fluid, creating movement and a dreamy, natural feeling. I like how Monet emphasizes the atmosphere over precise details,
Overall, the painting shows how light, color, and technique can convey the mood of nature, making the viewer experience it emotionally rather than literally.
Toth Kriszta Bianca
ReplyDeleteArte textile design textil
Anul II
Task 1.
In The African Influences in Brancusi’s Work, Paul Stoie formulates a clear and focused thesis and supports it with well-chosen points of proof, such as formal analysis and comparisons between Brancusi’s sculptures and African art, which makes the argument coherent and convincing. In contrast, Idea for Sale by Oana Boca proposes a broader thesis about the commercialization of contemporary art and develops it mainly through anecdotes and general examples, which makes the argument less tightly structured. Overall, Stoie’s text is more convincing because the thesis is consistently supported by concrete evidence and logical reasoning.
Task 2.
A possible subject is Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night. The thesis could be that the painting expresses emotional turbulence and spiritual longing through visual means. This thesis can be supported by the use of swirling, dynamic lines that suggest movement and inner tension, the contrast between deep blues and bright yellows that conveys both despair and hope, and the overall composition, which guides the viewer’s eye upward and creates a sense of contemplation and transcendence.
Solomon Cristiana-Ioana
ReplyDeleteITA III
Constantin Brancusi is a figure in sculpture that is the target of many studies that try to find the root of his style. In "The African Influences in Brancusi's work" by Paul Stoie, the author places Brancusi's work in the 20th century interest in art from outside of Europe. On the other hand, Oana Boca's "Idea for Sale" explains how artistic ideas are changed based on value and the forces of the market. Both texts discuss art and it's the relationship between art and context although they heavily differ in structure, method and the way they discuss their themes.
The main point these texts talk about is the forces that influence the production of art. Stoie says that African art had a heavy influence on Brancusi's basic form and abstraction. Boca says that, in culture, the idea is something you sell, trade or exchange since, usually, the idea comes before it's execution. Although both these ideas are clearly communicated, I do believe Stoie's take on things is more realistic since it is backed up by historical proof and pictures, while Boca's thesis is purely theoretical and attempts to be a more general answer and not a concrete one.
I also noticed a lot of differences in the proof used by both authors. While Stoie backs up his thesis with comparisons between African sculptures and Brancusi's works and points out the similarities between the 2 (like simplification, focus on core volumes and symbolic distortion). Stoie also quotes exhibitions and collections from Brancusi's time. Stoie's thesis has a logical flow that makes his work convincing because each of his claims lets his examples on top of another. Boca on the other hand, contrasts Stoie by using ideas and examples from the art market and rising questions about creativity and how his works would be commercialized. The lack of detailed study makes Boca's arguments weaker, since they lean more on interpretation-and not solid proof.
In conclusion, both texts offer perspectives on how art is influenced by external forces however Paul Stoie's work is far superior to Boca's since his thesis contains much more concrete evidence and his arguments are much more coherently developed. Boca's text does succeed on offering a critical reflection, however, it lacks the analitical precision that characterizes Stoie's historical approach.
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Foto-Video PCI
anul 3
Task 1
When comparing the two texts discussed in class—Oana Boca’s ,,Idea for Sale” and Paul Stoie’s ,,The African Influences in Brâncuși’s Work”—it can be noticed that Paul Stoie’s essay is more convincing from an academic point of view.
Oana Boca proposes an interesting and engaging thesis, suggesting that selling art can itself be considered an art form. However, her thesis remains rather broad and functions more as a general reflection than as a clearly limited, arguable claim. The points of proof are developed mainly through narration and exemplification and tend to explain a process rather than to argue systematically in support of the thesis.
In contrast, Paul Stoie formulates a clear, focused, and debatable thesis regarding the influence of African art on Brâncuși’s work. His points of proof are well structured and supported through formal analysis, historical context, and concrete examples. As a result, the essay follows the expository move-structure more rigorously and builds a stronger argumentative case.
Task 2
,,Subject”
Constantin Brâncuși – ,,The Beginning of the World”
,,Thesis”
In ,,The Beginning of the World”, Brâncuși uses extreme simplification to express the idea of origin and creation as universal concepts rather than as realistic representations.
,,Points of proof”
1. The simplified, ovoid form suggests essence rather than physical detail.
2. The abstract shape symbolically refers to origin and potential life.
3. Compared to works such as ,,Newborn” or ,,The First Cry”, the sculpture shows Brâncuși’s move toward pure abstraction.
Tokes Tamas Grafica anul 2(That is also the deadline for those of you who do not have the number of tasks for the credits to solve the respective number of tasks on the blog, WITHOUT ANY POINTS attached)
ReplyDeleteTask 1
Between the two texts “The African Influences in Brancusi’s Work” by Paul Stoie and “Idea for Sale” by Oana Boca, the first text seems to me more convincing because the thesis is more clear and the arguments are better structured. Both texts are following the expository essay structure and are well formulated, but the difference can be easily noticed in the way the points of proof are developed.
Paul Stoie’s text is focused on a clear artistic subject and explains how African art influenced Brancusi’s works by using formal analysis, comparison and historical context. The thesis is precise and supported by visual examples, which helps the reader to understand better Brancusi’s artistic choices and the meanings behind his sculptures.
On the other hand, “Idea for Sale” by Oana Boca is approaching a more conceptual and modern subject, talking about the commercialization of art ideas. Even if the text is interesting and presents a contemporary perspective, the arguments are more abstract and sometimes less clearly developed, depending more on interpretation than concrete analysis.
In conclusion, even if both texts are valuable, “The African Influences in Brancusi’s Work” is more convincing because of the clearer thesis and the stronger development of the points of proof.
Task 2
The process of creating video games can be considered a form of art because it combines creativity, meaning and personal expression, similar with other traditional forms of art.
One point that supports this idea is the creative vision of the game designers, who are creating complex stories, characters and virtual worlds that reflect personal ideas and cultural aspects. These elements needs imagination and artistic intention, just like painting or cinema.
Another important point is the visual part of video games. The use of colors, composition, animation and digital design helps creating immersive environments that produce emotional reactions to the player. This shows a high level of artistic skill and attention to detail.
A third point is the impact that video games have on the audience. Many players are appreciating games not only as entertainment but also as meaningful experiences that communicate emotions and ideas. This relationship between the creator and the viewer is an important characteristic of art.
In conclusion, video game design should be considered an artistic form of expression because of the creativity, visual quality and conceptual depth that is put into it.
Task 1:
ReplyDeleteThe African Influences in Brancusi’s Work by Paul Stoie is the more convincing text because it builds a very specific argument that connects physical shapes to historical facts. Stoie focuses on how Brancusi moved away from traditional European styles after seeing African wood carvings which is a clear and limited thesis. When he is developing the points of proof he uses formal analysis to show how the rough textures and simple lines in Brancusi’s sculptures look like the tribal objects he saw in Paris. This makes the theory feel very solid because you can actually see the evidence in the art. On the other hand Oana Boca’s text Idea for Sale is more about the business side of art and how a creative idea is turned into a product. Her argument is broader and relies more on storytelling and describing a design process. While her writing is very interesting and easy to read it feels more like a personal observation than a deep academic theory. Stoie’s approach is stronger because he uses a mix of history and visual details to prove his point in a way that is hard to argue with.
Task 2:
The Wanderer above the Sea of Fog by Caspar David Friedrich is one of the most famous works of the Romantic era. It shows a lone man standing on a jagged rock, looking out over a thick valley of clouds and distant mountain peaks, created during a time when art began to focus on the power of nature and individual emotion. The painting theorizes that the natural landscape is not just a physical place, but a mirror for the human soul and its internal search for spiritual meaning. The man being shown with his back to the viewer, forces the audience to see the world through his perspective and suggests a deeply private, internal experience. The sharp contrast between the dark, solid rocks in the front and the soft, white fog in the distance represents the difference between our physical reality and our spiritual dreams. The central placement of the small figure against the massive, infinite mountains shows the paradox of the human condition, feeling powerful enough to stand at the top, yet tiny compared to the greatness of nature.