Assignment no.1
Design a A3 size self-portrait based on an art movement that represents you best.
Surrealism came about in the 1920s when a group of writers and painters gathered to empathise the importance and power held by the unconscious mind. The goal was to "resolve the previously contradictory conditions of dream and reality." hey believed that Freud's theories on dreams, ego, superego and the id opened doors to the authentic self and a truer reality (the "surreal"). They are indebted to the irrationality of the Dada movement. In fact, one of the first converts to the movement was former Dadaist Max Ernst, who had fought in the war and was still haunted by its nightmares. His artwork (below) expressed just that. The main characteristics of surrealism would be it's dream like qualities. It portrays familiar object/situation in unfamiliar settings that may or may not be possible in real life. It is just surreal.
Max Ernst (French, born Germany. 1891-1976) Two Children Are Threatened by a Nightingale |
I choose Surrealism because I like the freedom it gives. I do not have to limit myself to a fixed style or a certain set colours. I can let my imagination run loose. Besides, I believe that surrealism would be a great challenge since I came from a science background where I have to abide by the rules of logic. Well, I am really excited now so let's see how this goes.