SYMBOLISM....IN ART.....WHAT IS IT?
Art books have whole chapters on this subject.
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| Can you see the symbolism in this painting of Jean Hart's? |
Symbolism.
First, a symbol is anything that, over time, human beings have decided is a representation of some thing. They must be agreed about and people must recognize them as meaning one thing. Some artist will make up a symbol that means something important them but has no meaning to a viewer. When doing abstract artwork you may see a symbol just to give you an idea of what the painting is about. It's a way for the artist to let you know what this painting is about, ...peace, love, rage, etc. It's helpful for the viewier to have help translating the artwork.
Symbolism is not only seen in artwork, but, in theater, literature, and music.
Almost anywhere where the artist wants the viewer to go beyond the singular dimension of the artwork. The Art Movements that used symbolism best were Modernist, Expressionism, and Symbolism
Some of the more famous artist are;
Paul Gauguin, Gustav Klimt, Edvard Munch, Pierre Puvis de Chavannes
Here are some common symbols and their meanings
Circle, represents eternity.
Chain, connection that exists between every living thing on the planet.
Figure 8, infinity, balance of power between the sun and the moon.
Square, foundation upon which everthing else is built
Spiral, change and forward motion.
Triangle, creative focus of mind, body and spirit.
Butterfly, represents the soul and transformation.
Cat, good luck and a deep love of all things beautiful in the world.
Coyote, cleverness
Deer, maternal love.
That should get you started on your next painting,
Be Inspired,
~Jean
