Art Institute of Chicago's "Islamic Art"

Looking back at the Islamic Art exhibit during our visit to the Art Institute of Chicago:  

12-pointed star.  12th century. Timurid Dynasty (1370-1507).  Iran or Central Asia. Glazed fritware (Fritware, also known as Islamic stone-paste, is a type of pottery in which frit is added to clay to reduce its fusion temperature. As a result, the mixture can be fired at a lower temperature than clay alone.), cut and assembled as a mosaic.

Table by Carlo Bugatti.  

Plate/Charger, Bookbinder, and Vase

Sinan the Jew and Haireddin Barbarossa, c. 1535

Famous: Do you recognize this 20th century painting?

First, I had almost completely forgotten that this world-famous work of art was located not far from home.  No need for me to go to Paris, NY or LA  for one of the most popular 20th century paintings ever.  

Second, it is instantly recognizable -- many say as recognizable as the MONA LISA and The Scream. Third, the painting's popularity has caused it to be the most parodied painting in American pop culture.  Simply do an internet search and see for yourself. 

So, if you're a Chicagoan, stand proud that  AMERICAN GOTHIC (1930)  is part of the collection at  the Art Institute of Chicago (and, YES, they allow you to photograph this priceless piece as long as you do not use flash, and the picture is for your private use). Its painter, Grant Wood, was a graduate of the school, and had entered it at the institute's art contest.  He won the bronze medal and $300 cash;  the school bought his painting; and Wood became instantly famous.  He modeled the lady after his 32-year old sister, Nan; and the man after their dentist, 62-year-old Byron McKeeby. 

The title of the painting refers to the style of house in the background.  The house is also known as the Dibble House and is located in Eldon, Iowa. Wood only observed the house once in 1930, made an initial sketching, and completed the painting (adding the people) at his studio in Cedar Rapids. 

American Gothic House  via wikipedia

pc: the Art Institute of Chicago




47.9.3.18

Art smart!

The Meeting Place

Received this email earlier this month:

Subject: And the winner is...

Apoorva M for Autumn Gazebo!

Second place was a tie:  Jillian E (The Meeting Place)

and Jack G (Ontarioville Gazebo).

Third place went to Liz S (Garden Bench).

Congratulations to all of you! 

And congratulations to each student who participated.  All of the paintings are wonderful & this was a huge accomplishment for everyone.  Starting with your very own photo references & pictorial concepts, you worked with discipline & dedication to successfully bring your paintings to life.  I'm so very proud of all of you!

The presentation of the awards & other details regarding the display of all of the paintings will follow. 

See you on Saturday...

Linda 

Here's another of Jill's oil pastel drawings:

12.10.8.18