Module 1 Lesson 4

TYPES OF SUBJECTS IN ART
OBJECTIVES OUTCOMES
• Differentiate representational • Discussed the difference
art and non-representational between representational art
art; and non-representational art;
• Identify and discuss the • Identified different types of
different types of subjects in subjects in art; and
art; and • Made a simple art with one
• Make a minimalist art focusing subject.
on one object as the subject.
24 | ABONG • Art Appreciation

INTRODUCTION
The primary stage of engaging with art is its perception. Looking at art is much like any
instance for taking in information or stimulus that originates from the world around us.
The eyes play a big role in mechanically making a vision possible.
In this Lesson, the different types of subjects in art will be discussed. To enlighten,
subject refers to the visual focus or the image that may be extracted from examining
the artwork.
DISCUSSION
Types of Subjects
Portraits such as the "Mona Lisa" are good examples of

what is called representational art. These types of art have
subjects that refer to objects or events occurring in the real world.
Often, it is also termed figurative art, because as the name
suggests, the figures depicted are easy to make out and
decipher. Despite not knowing who Mona Lisa is, it is clear that
the painting is of a woman that is realistically-proportioned; only
the upper torso is shown; a beguiling and mysterious smile is
Leonardo da Vinci,
flashed; and that the background is a landscape—probably a Mona Lisa, 1503
view from a window, pushing it even further, one can even
imagine a scene in which Leonardo da Vinci alternates between applying dabs of paint
on the canvas and looking at the sitter in order to capture her features for the portrait.
On the other hand, seeing a painting that has

nothing in it but continuous drips of paint or
splotches of colors either confounds the viewer or is
readily trivialized as something that anyone with
access to materials can easily make. There were no
clear figures that jot out from the canvas; there were
only drips and splashes. This kind of work can be
subsumed under the category of non-
representational. As the opposite of the previously
discussed type of subject, non-representational art Wassily Kandinsky, Composition VII,
is also often termed non-figurative art. 1913 [Non-representational Art]
Art Appreciation • ABONG | 25

Non-representational art does not make a reference to the real world, whether it
is a person, place, thing, or even a particular event. It is stripped down to visual
elements such as shapes, lines, and colors that are employed to translate a particular
feeling, emotion, and even concept.
Non-representational Art and Abstract Art
One source of confusion is the notion that

non-representational art is the same as abstract art.
This is essential to discuss because it introduces the
fact that representational art and non-
representational art is not a clear-cut divide; rather,
they exist in a spectrum. As a guide, an artwork,
depending on the degree of distortion or abstraction,
may be judged as leaning more toward one over the
other. Abstract art is in itself a departure from reality,
but the extent of that departure determines whether
Ryan O’Niell, Deep in the Wilderness,
it has reached the end of the spectrum, which is non-
Acrylic Abstract Painting representationality—a complete severance from the
world.
Sources and Kinds of Subject
For non-representational art, a higher level of perceptiveness and insight might

be required to fully grasp the feeling, emotion, or concept behind the work. It is perhaps
easier to infer where the subject matter comes from if the artwork is an example of
representational art. From the figure(s) depicted in the artwork, there is already a
suggestion as to its inspiration.
However, in discussing the sources and kinds of subject in artworks, it is
important to note that these two are often inextricably related. Often, even a singular
source of inspiration can yield multiple translations. A good starting point is, of course,
the nature.
Historically significant events particularly in the affairs of humanity are abundant

references for art production. From early breakthroughs such as the discovery of fire
and the overthrow of geocentric theory in favor of a sun-centered universe, succeeding
advancements brought about by discovery, innovation, and man's incessant search for
glory plotted a dynamic course of history.
Sources of Subject Kinds of Subject

- Nature - History - Seascape
- History - Still Life - Cityscape
- Greek and Roman Mythology - Animals - Mythology
- Judeo-Christian Tradition - Figures - Myth
- Sacred Oriental Texts - Nature - Dreams
- Other works of Art - Landscape - Fantasies

SUMMARY
There is sense of panic when one is confounded with the question, "What am I
seeing?" or rather, "What am I supposed to see?" Perhaps, addressing this stigma is
the first step in inviting more Filipinos to engage with art and have a more enduring
appreciation for it.
In gaining the basics of deciphering the subject and content of art, it is hoped
that an individual's sensitivity and perceptiveness to art will be developed. As was
discussed in the chapter, one may begin by looking at perceivable features of the
artwork. Taking note of what is apparent will provide clues as to what the intended
meaning of the artist might be. Knowing more about the context of its creation—from
the artist's inspiration, reference or source, will prove useful in understanding the
meaning of the artwork. However, one must forget that each viewer is armed with his
or her experience, background and education. These will assist in fleshing out different
levels of meaning that maybe derived from the artwork. These might not be as evident
as say, the figures depicted on the surface; however, these alternative readings
contribute to the significance of the artwork.
REFERENCES
Caslib, B.N., Garing, D.C., & Casaul, J.A.R. (2018). Art appreciation first edition. Rex
Book Store, Inc. Sampaloc, Manila. ISBN: 978-971-23-8669-5. pp. 37-53.
--- End of Module 1 Lesson 4 ---

ACTIVITY
Activity 1: MINIMALISM
Introduction:
Minimalism describes movements in various forms of art and design, especially
visual art and music, where the work is set out to expose the essence, essentials or
identity of a subject through eliminating all non-essential forms, features or concepts.
In this activity, you will make art based on the preferred subject.
Objectives Outcomes
- Make a minimalist art focusing on - Made a simple art with one
one object as the subject. subject.
- Explain the description of the Art. - Discussed the description, details,
and other information about Art.
What you need…

• An 8.5in x 13in [Legal, Substance 20] White Coupon Bond Paper.
• Preferred Markers (Pen, Pencil, Felt Tip Pen, Ballpoint) any 2 colors only.
• Ruler (for making border lines) – may also use as optional in making artwork.
How to do?
• In a coupon bond, make a thick border line using a dark marker in 1 inch all sides
from the edge of paper. (refer to the standard drawing paper template).
• Use the whole part of the paper for your preferred ONE Category using ONE object
only, and leave portion below for the description, details, or explanation of the Artwork.
• Categories: Fruits, Leaves & Flowers, Animals, Parts of Human Body,
Landscape, Seascape, and Geometrical Figures.
Samples of Minimalism Art:


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TYPES OF SUBJECTS IN ART

24 | ABONG • Art Appreciation

Portraits such as the "Mona Lisa" are good examples of

On the other hand, seeing a painting that has

Art Appreciation • ABONG | 25

Non-representational Art and Abstract Art

One source of confusion is the notion that

Sources and Kinds of Subject

For non-representational art, a higher level of perceptiveness and insight might

Historically significant events particularly in the affairs of humanity are abundant

Sources of Subject Kinds of Subject

26 | ABONG • Art Appreciation

--- End of Module 1 Lesson 4 ---

Art Appreciation • ABONG | 27

What you need…

Samples of Minimalism Art:

Art Appreciation • ABONG | 29

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