Code-cracking

Once you have learned to recognize the “skeleton keys” artists use to create art, you’ll be able to view what you see in museums in a new and exciting way. You’ll be able to more clearly understand the ideas, meanings and messages artists are sending you. You’ll be able to look at art with a “discerning eye.” You’ll crack the art code.

Let’s practice some code-cracking using an artwork by an artist many people know—Vincent van Gogh. Almost everyone also knows that he cut off part of his ear. Here’s a self-portrait van Gogh did not long after the unfortunate event.  What messages are being sent to you by van Gogh in this painting? Here are some questions that help you tease out more meaning.

1.  On what line has he placed his body? Is he slumping? Sitting up?  Moving?

2.  Where is he looking?  Straight at the viewer? Away from the viewer?

3.  What is the expression of his eyes? Confident and straight forward looking? Downcast and not direct?

4.  What is the color most used? What symbolism is associated with this color?

After you’ve thought about these questions and looked carefully at the artwork to guide you, click the More button to see some possible answers. AND…one last question. Van Gogh cut off a piece of his left ear.  What’s “wrong” about this picture?
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