Art: Interpretation and Understanding
Theory of Knowledge Summer Art Assignment
Prtha Kudesia
Mr. Duncan
HZT4UE-01
October 9th 2012
Initial Reaction 1. As you approach the art gallery, you will see a large, spindly sculpture outside the main doors. It is of a spider with a sack of eggs under its abdomen.
a. What is your initial reaction upon seeing this piece?
At first I was quite taken aback by the presence of such an intimidating sculpture of a spider in front of me, though as I walked closer to it, I became more and more curious as to what its meaning is. I am most definitely afraid of spiders, and I found it odd that they placed such an intimidating sculpture at the front entrance. Why was it placed there? Why is it a spider specifically? I considered these questions as I walked towards the work. However, despite my confusion, I could not help but feel a sense of being drawn towards it in wonder of what it means and what its purpose is; it had caught my attention quite well. In contrast to my initial impression however, another person may not appreciate the sculpture to the same degree as I did, and would rather have a more inviting and pleasant sculpture, perhaps that of a famous artist. b. Do you think initial reaction is a very important quality in art?
Yes, definitely, since the first impression is what attracts and connects with the audience. It can either bore a mind, or capture it and develop more and more curiosity. For example, if I were to be shown one painting with only a couple streaks of paint and another painting with an entire landscape painted on it, I would most likely be more interested and curious about the second painting (given my idea of “good” art). Just based on my first impression, I could easily be captured by one painting, though clearly bored with the other. Another person, however, may argue that one should not “judge a book by its cover” and that regardless if you find a panting attractive or revolting, it will draw your attention and
Prtha Kudesia
Mr. Duncan
HZT4UE-01
October 9th 2012
Initial Reaction 1. As you approach the art gallery, you will see a large, spindly sculpture outside the main doors. It is of a spider with a sack of eggs under its abdomen.
a. What is your initial reaction upon seeing this piece?
At first I was quite taken aback by the presence of such an intimidating sculpture of a spider in front of me, though as I walked closer to it, I became more and more curious as to what its meaning is. I am most definitely afraid of spiders, and I found it odd that they placed such an intimidating sculpture at the front entrance. Why was it placed there? Why is it a spider specifically? I considered these questions as I walked towards the work. However, despite my confusion, I could not help but feel a sense of being drawn towards it in wonder of what it means and what its purpose is; it had caught my attention quite well. In contrast to my initial impression however, another person may not appreciate the sculpture to the same degree as I did, and would rather have a more inviting and pleasant sculpture, perhaps that of a famous artist. b. Do you think initial reaction is a very important quality in art?
Yes, definitely, since the first impression is what attracts and connects with the audience. It can either bore a mind, or capture it and develop more and more curiosity. For example, if I were to be shown one painting with only a couple streaks of paint and another painting with an entire landscape painted on it, I would most likely be more interested and curious about the second painting (given my idea of “good” art). Just based on my first impression, I could easily be captured by one painting, though clearly bored with the other. Another person, however, may argue that one should not “judge a book by its cover” and that regardless if you find a panting attractive or revolting, it will draw your attention and