Painting I/II Art Problem : Create a cubistic vanitas (still-life) using various watercolor techniques.

What is a Vanitas? In the 1600’s and 1700’s, Netherland artists developed a symbolism in still life art called Vanitas. Vanitas, in Latin, refers to the "vanity" of all worldly things, such as wealth, beauty, Idle hands (the wasting of time), learning, and the arts. These pieces would often portray lovely objects, however the symbolism would be reminding us of mans mortality, being centered on life, death, and aging.

Skulls-remind the observer of the certainty of death Pieter Claesz

Other symbolism … Decaying or peeled fruit would be a reminder of aging. Broken glass, bubbles, a burning candle, smoke, watches, hourglasses or a book with turned pages would symbolize the fragility and brevity of life, and the suddenness of death. Musical instruments were also used to exemplify the ephemeral nature of life. Seafood or a peeled lemon would tell us that although they were fabulous to look at, they were bitter to taste, just like life could be. Pier ClaeszPier Claesz Simon Renard De Saint-Andre ( )

Ms. O--What does cubism have to do with this? Vanitas’ were the first still-life paintings --CUBISM broke from tradition and revolutionized it. Pablo Picasso developed the style in the early 1900s.

Picassos’ idea… To not paint things in perspective from one point of view. Picasso used several points of view, in order to create something more original and effective. He also challenged the fact the he was observing three dimensional object however painting in a two dimensional product. Picasso, Still Life with Fruit Dish on a Table ( ) Can you recognize any of these objects? Does it matter? Do you like the way this looks?

How will you solve the art problem? Choose objects that are symbolic to you, which you have a personal attachment. Create AT LEAST 2 sketches of the still-life from 2 points of view. Combine the sketches, ROTATE, ZOOM, FRAGMENT the composition so that it is in a Cubist style. Transfer sketch to watercolor paper. Begin to paint! Every act of creation is first an act of destruction. - Pablo Picasso