By Elizabeth McPherson
With the popularity of online web communities and private profiles, users are turning to fun and creative surveys to help showcase themselves to others. One survey that recently struck me was entitled, “What Famous Work of Art Are You?” Taking this survey reminded me of all the people out there who are completely unexposed to art in general, and how even fewer are familiar with famous works that have shaped our history. Because of this, many people are completely clueless on how to view and choose art to reflect their personal styles. With many different styles out there it can be overwhelming to narrow the search down. But when purchasing art, one of the first things you should consider is ‘what type of art are you?’
Modern Art. This genre is a vast and expanding genre. It includes art that is less traditional and more exploratory. A famous Modern Artist was Andy Warhol who was influenced by the Pop Culture and painted popular subjects such as celebrities and the Campbell’s Soup cans. For the person with traditional taste, this style is probably not for you. If you are someone who thrives on experimentation and embraces the ‘now’ of popular culture, however, you may enjoy the freshness and risks that modern art can offer.
Impressionistic Art. While Impressionism encompasses several forms, overall, it represents a departure from traditional without going as far as Modern Art does. Typically, Impressionist painters play with light and brushstroke leaving sharp lines and uniformity out of the picture. People who are laid back and ‘free-spirited’ will probably appreciate this style the most. A famous Impressionist was Monet, and the term “Impressionism” comes from the title of his famous work entitled, “Impression.” Subject matter of Impressionist Art are often ordinary subject matter like landscapes and people. People with strict and organized personalities may find this style too ‘loosey-goosey.’
Multi-Media. Just as the name implies, Multi-Media Art involves use of different mediums. A basic form that most are familiar with would be a collage, since most of us created one of some kind in school as a child. But Multi-Media can mix many less obvious forms. Illustrators often combine watercolor with colored pencil, for instance. This style can be perfect for people who just can’t decide which medium they like best, as well as for people who have several characteristics to their personality that they want to reflect in their décor.
Realistic Art. This style is easy to describe. Realistic Art includes paintings and pictures of real things in a real way. It can be well defined paintings of people or landscapes and even photography. People who are no-nonsense may enjoy this style the best. Although, this style could be for every personality depending on the subject matter.
“Art” is a general term which can apply to an innumerable list of works. This article examined only a few ways to define and select art from a simple list of styles. Nothing says “you” more than the types of art you choose for your surroundings.
When choosing art, keep in mind that there are many famous works available in print form (copies) at a minimal cost. For those who are art savvy, purchasing work from actual artists, even unknown artists, can also reflect your style. A search through our artist profiles here at TCP can help you discover Christian artists of many different styles, and give you access to one-of-a-kind originals. Discuss this article on the forums. (0 posts) |
