UNIT II.

SUBJECT AND
CONTEXT
Subject of an Artwork
• Subject in art refers to
the idea that is
represented in the
artwork.
- it is basically the
essence of the piece.
Guided questions to determine subject
matter in a particular piece of art:

• What is actually depicted in this artwork?

• What is the artist trying to express to the
world?
• What is his/her message?
• How are they conveying that message?
The subject matter would be what the artist has chosen to paint, draw or sculpt.
The subject matter is entirely up to the artist and whether he/she discloses the
meaning of it or not is also a personal choice.
Some artists don’t like to
assign a strict explanation of
their art so that they are not
imposing on the viewers
narrative and concept of the
work. That allows it to be
more reflective or interactive
if you like.
• Representational Art – refers to art which represents something. It is
art which is clearly identifiable as something which already exists in
life.
- refers to a painting or sculpture that is clearly recognizable for what
it claims to be.
- it is also referred to as Figurative Art, being that it is derived from
real subject sources .
Examples of
Representational Art
• Non-Representational Art – or non-objective art refers to compositions which do not
rely on representation or mimesis to any extent.
- Abstract art, non-objective art, and non-representational art are related terms that
indicate a departure from reality in the depiction of imagery in art.
- It is highly subjective and can be difficult to define. We can focus on the elements of
the artwork (form, shape, line, color, space, and texture) in terms of the aesthetic value
of the work, but the meaning will always be personal to the viewer unless the artist has
made a statement about his or her intentions.
- It is the personal expression of an artist's subjective experience. Certain movements
have described their intentions as an aim to evoke moods or emotions in the
viewer.
Thank you!