The Persistence of Memory
Description: -faded blue+yellow sunset
-melting clocks all looking different
-golden cliffs
-dark crooked branch
-brown box
-dark dirt ground
-warm colors-sleek silver rectangle
-golden hills
-faded clouds
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Analysis: The surreal landscape was created in 1931 by the famous Spanish artist, Salvador Dali. The Persistence of memory uses the basic elements of art including a plethora of lines, values, shapes, form, colors, and textures. The lines that Dali uses in the painting vary on the shape in which he is working with. Under the skyline sits a body of water, resembling a large lake or body of water. Most of the painting contains lines that are relatively thin and similar in width, with the exception of the mountains. The lines on the mountains are noticeable and give them a rough, realistic approach. He also makes everything very detailed on each watch. The use of lines and texture also improve the look of reflection, making it more realistic. He doesn't leave nay visible sketch marks in this painting, so it is not clear or easy to distinguish the lines from shading. The lines that he does show are complimenting the dark shadows of his surrealistic landscape. These shadows are the main eye drawing and soul of the piece.
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Interpretation: Many have suggested that the watches that are apparent in the painting refer to Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity. Also, many people have interpreted Dali's ants, that are on the face of one of the watches, as a symbol for decay. These ants are often used in many of Dali,s paintings. The painting alludes to the influence of Scientific advances during Dali's lifetime. The stark yet dream-like scenery reflects a Freudian emphasis on the dreamy landscape. Most of his painting came from a dream and can be interpreted correctly only through the unique mind of Dali himself. It reflects different parts and values found in Dali's life.
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Judgement: With its strange subject matter and dream-like atmosphere, the painting has become a well known symbol of surrealism. Surrealism is best known for its visual artworks and writings of distant realities to activate the unconscious mind through the imagery in the paintings. This painting has that dream-like imagery that is identified with surrealism. The painting embodies the sensibilities that define the experimental and eccentric genre. It also examines the subconscious world and attempts to delve into the depths of human psychology. By altering and manipulating normal objects, the artist allows the viewer to escape reality and explore what lies beneath the surface. This escape from reality is what makes this piece so unique and valuable. An escape from reality is very valued in the world. This painting is important because of its ability to give the viewer this experience.
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Reading of The Lady of Shalott
Description
- black boat
-sad woman
-colorful blanket
-swampy river
-dark forest
-small white candles
- women appears white
- light blue valley
-yellow and green leaves
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Analysis
The artist used very dark and sorrowful colors for the nature that is apparent in the painting. Whereas the woman is painted in bright and whites to make her appear almost angelic and very pure. There are lily's surrounding, which often signify purity. There are also numerous candles, some distinguished and some not. These candles could signify living life and distinguished lives.
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Interpretation
I think this painting is about beauty and sorrow. The lady in the boat is surrounding by lily's, which are frequently a symbol for purity and chastity. The white candles are a representation of life. If one looks closely they will find that two candles are distinguished, which could symbolize that death is soon to come. The woman looks very distraught and sad which adds to the theme of darkness and sorrow that often appears throughout the painting. I think this painting is trying to encompass the purity and beauty of woman yet also the deep emotions that they feel. The woman appears angelic but wears a sorrowful expression, this adds to the complexity of this piece.
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Judgement
I think that other people should go see this piece because there is so much meaning within it. The woman may appear pure and angelic but she appears to have some deep thoughts and emotions going on inside of her that no one can see. This can be interpreted differently by each person and can do a lot to broaden or enlighten the viewer of the art's mind.
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