WCCCD Humanities 101 – EXAM 2 (Take Home)Principles and Elements

(Revised, 03.12.16)

EXAM DIRECTIONS:

Select three (3) images and address the supporting questions (a-d). Remember to answer the questions thoroughly, and cite examples or give a personal testimony to justify your response. This exam is designed for you to express and defend your position on the following artworks. Address the questions in your own words, by using lecture notes and internet resources. Use complete sentences and proper grammar. Do not forget to proofread and spellcheck your work before submitting it.

This assignment must be typed, double-space, 3 – 5 pages and include a cover page. Font: 12 points Arial or New Times Roman (NO FANCY FONTS) Do not use the following sources in your responses: Wikipedia, encyclopedias, or dictionaries. If you use an online source, use MLA and add a work cite page. Do not PLAGIARIZE and turn in your assignment in on time! REMEMBER. . . . THIS IS AN EXAM. DO YOUR VERY BEST!

1. Compare and contrast the following public art works: Michelangelo’s David, the Statue of Liberty:a. What is the general theme in each piece? Discuss thoroughly.b. How are the works of art similarities and differences? (Do not discuss color, size, and gender.)c. What is the hidden message in each work? Who is the audience for each piece and why? Cite an example to support your

response.d. (Element of Design) Discuss the texture of each status?

2. “Race ing” Sideways by Nikolai Buglaj, depicts thirteen racers tied for the lead in a race. From left to right, racers skin color changes from white to black, and then their clothing changes from black to white, a double version of the traditional "value" scale, literally and figuratively.

a. What is the subject matter of this work, and which traditional role of an artist can be applied to the work?b. What “values” are at stake here? (artistic and social) Be specific.c. Traditionally, what is western society’s view of the colors black and white? Cite an example.d. (Principle of Design) Does this work exhibit repetition and patterns? Why or why not?

3. Vincent Van Gogh’s work, A Starry Night is a reflection of his deep thoughts and unique genius. Address the following:

a. What is content and subject matter of the work? Does it have a hidden message(s)?b. How do the colors and lines in the work contribute to its overall composition? c. Discuss which role of an artist can be applied to this work and explain why.d. (Elements of Design) Discuss the type of lines that are presented in A Starry Night. How do the lines complement the work?

4. Fallen depicts the final outcome of the tragedy of war, and those who served. Jane Hammond uniquely identifies each victim by creating a leaf specifically for the soldier who has fallen in the line of duty since 2004. This is a difficult exhibit because it’s ongoing and does not have an ending.

a. What is subject matter and hidden message of Hammond’s work? Explain.b. Do the colors in the work play an important role when viewing this piece?c. Does this work quietly acknowledge visual loss or the will of the government? Why or why not?d. (Principle of Design) Does this artwork have a focal point? Discuss thoroughly.

Michelangelo’s Pieta, 1498-1500

5. The Pietà is one of Michelangelo’s greatest creations. Discuss the following:

a. What is the subject matter of Michelangelo’s Pieta? And what does the term pieta mean?b. Why is this work important from a historical and cultural perspective?c. Is this work representational, non-representational or abstract? Discuss and cite examples.d. (Elements of Design) Michelangelo used texture and shape to focus one’s attention on Pieta. What does the shape of the work

symbolize?