International Journal of Art and Art History

A Critical Study of Subject Role in Tasting Painting Artworks
Ihab M. Hanafy

Abstract
This study highlights the role of painting subjects in reading and tasting them. Where examples of painting art from various periods of art history namely primitive to contemporary arts were discussed. These paintings are believed to be representatives of contrasting subjects and concepts. The subject of an artwork is linked to the nature of the era in which it is created; as an era, characteristics in terms of beliefs, philosophy, culture, science, and creative freedom limits have clear impacts on the nature of the artistic subjects presented. In this context, the study assumed that the subject cannot be relied upon in reading and appreciating visual artworks, as the subject may have a clear presence in the works of a certain historical stage, and it may be marginalized, cancelled, or completely excluded in the artworks of another historical stage. Based on the studied artworks, it is concluded that reading and tasting artistic works require the audience and viewers’ awareness of the period in which these works were produced. It is recommended to realize the artistic movement to which it belongs to, as these artworks mainly reflect how the subject was dealt with in this era and the aesthetical formulation method used by the artist in expressing the created artwork. Besides, the study confirmed that aesthetic construction should be the main approach to reading and tasting visual artworks, including paintings. The value of the artwork could be identified through the awareness of the audience of aesthetic formulation elements and their ability to embody identified visual values. The study confirmed that the value of the artwork does exist regardless the receivers’ awareness of the reason for determining the value of the artwork. Rather, the value of the artwork stems from the extent of the artist’s ability to expressively embody his thoughts and feelings employing fine art formulations. Thus, artists would address the audience's conscience and mind. Fine art formulation is primarily the frontal side that can determine the value of the artwork and its intellectual and creative originality.

Full Text: PDF       DOI: 10.15640/ijaah.v11n1a1