Landscape and the Sublime

1. What and when was the Enlightenment?

 

The Enlightenment was a movement that took place in the 18th century. It is a movement that intrigued humans to question and understand nature without turning to religious beliefs. Many philosophers wrote about politics, nature, economy, and morality all in order to understand more about the world during this time.

2. Define the concept of the Sublime.

In art the philosophy behind the term sublime dates back to late 17th century and early 18th century as a term some used to describe beautiful aspects of nature. Today sublime can be seen as anything beautiful, beyond, stunning, amazing, out of the ordinary, and a lot of other things.

3. How did the concept of the Sublime come out of the Enlightenment thought?

Before the Enlightenment in the 18th century most artist had a strong focus on religious paintings/sculptures. This was or could be due to many great art patrons being popes. However when the enlightenment arose the focus was much more on the aspects that shaped the world we lived in today. This allowed for artists to really capture the essence of a scenery or a art piece including landscapes for example.

4. Discuss the subject matter, and aesthetic (look) of Misrach's work to identify the Sublime in his work. Add some more images of his work.

The subject matter of most Misrach's work is heavily centered around landscapes. These two are both taken from bird's eye view looking down at the scenery. He has included some human figures in these works as well. I think he has done this to make us feel that even thought it looks like a beach some of us would only dream about being at, it is possible to be there. The work is calm and relaxed and has amazing colour.

5. Identify some other artists or designers that work with ideas around the Sublime, from the Enlightenment era as well as contemporary artists.

John Martin, a Sublime painter during the 18th century

Robert Marchessault a modern photographer and painter of the sublime

6. How does Misrach's photography make you feel? Does it appeal to your imagination?

The level of Misrach's work and how he manages to capture the essence of the scene is only bested by his reputation as a photographer. The astonishing landscapes that he captures are flooded with vibrant colour making me feel like I am actually there. Just looking at the shimmering water in the first photograph makes me want squint my eyes because of how bright it is.

7. Add a Sublime image of your choice to your blog, which can be Art or just a Sublime photograph.

8. Reference your sources (books and websites).

http://www.artinfo.com/galleryguide/20291/6826/6306/robert-mann-gallery-new-york/artist/richard-misrach/biography/

http://library.thinkquest.org/C006257/revolution/the_enlightenment.shtml

http://www.edelmangallery.com/misrach-bio.htm

http://www.amerindianarts.us/articles/concept_of_the_sublime_as_an_aesthetic_quality.shtml

http://mslinder.wikispaces.com/Sublime+Workbook