Types of Art Criticism

- Subjective Art Criticism

• Focuses on the individual’s subjective experience and emotional response to the artwork.
Subjective critics may consider their own personal tastes, preferences, and biases when
evaluating the work
• This criticism can vary greatly from person to person, as each individual may have a different
interpretation or connection to the work
- Objective Art Criticism
• Focused on analyzing the formal elements, techniques, and artistic principles used in the
artwork. Objective critics may consider technical skill, composition, use of color, and other
objective aspects of the work.
• May take into account the historical and cultural context of the artwork. Objective criticism
strives to provide a more objective evaluation of the work, separate from opinions or
emotion.

Modern Art – Refers to artworks made from 1870 to 1970s. This period succeeded the artworks
produced in the academic style. The emergence of modernism can be traced to the Industrial Revolution

Industrial Revolution – a period of significant technological, economic, and social change that occurred in
the late 18th and 19th centuries. Began in Great Britain, spread to other parts of Europe, America, then
the world

Ways the Industrial Revolution changed art

1. Changing subject matter

2. New materials and techniques
3. Shift in artistic styles

Modern Art Styles/Movements

- Impressionism
- Post-Impressionism
- Expressionism
- Cubism
Dadaism
- Surrealism
- Abstract Expressionism

Impressionism – An influential art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, primarily In France

Impressionist artists aimed to capture the fleeting effects of light, atmosphere, and the immediate
impression of a scene. They sought to depict the ever-changing qualities of nature and the modern world
They used loose and visible brushstrokes, applied with quick and spontaneous movements. The
technique aimed to convey a sense of movement, energy, and immediacy in their artwork. They also
used vibrant and pure colors, often applied in small, separate brushstrokes. They sought to capture the
effects of light and color in their natural surroundings, rather than relying on traditional color mixing
techniques. Impressionists often painted en plain air, meaning they worked outdoors directly in front of
their subject matter. Allowing them to observe the light and atmosphere firsthand. Impressionists
depicted a wide range of subjects, but focused on leisure activities and the effects of industrialization on
society. Impressionists aimed to depict their perception of a scene, rather than a precise representation,
and explored the play of light, color, and atmosphere to evoke emotional responses from the viewer.
They were rejected often from art displays.

Salon de Paris – An official art exhibition held annually in Paris from the 18th to 20th century. Organized by
the French academy of Fine Arts and served as the most prestigious art even in France

Salon des Refuses – Alternative exhibition that took place in Paris in 1863. Organized in response to the
rejection of numerous artworks by the official Salon jury.