Medium of the Art/Technique of the Artist
The painting Tokyo Street with Pachinko Parlor II ,by Yvonne Jacquette, is a depiction of Tokyo, Japan a place where I have always wanted to visit. Filled with an array of vibrant colors, such as, pink, green, blue, yellow, the painting also feature the subtleness of dull colors, such as, grey, purple, brown, and black. The artwork was huge and hung up against the white wall in the museum. Had I not seen this painting in person, I would have never guessed how detailed it is, especially the cars. Up close, the painting is vibrant, emphasizing the chaotic city as well as its beauty. Being there in person, I was able to admire the various strokes of oil paint that highlighted the artist's dedication on this artwork. What I find striking about this medium of the work is that the colors are well shown. Each color blends with another making the artwork so beautiful. The essence of the popular city was captured via the medium and transported me as if I was actually there. The busyness and love were communicated to me as I approached the artwork. The artwork made me feel excited and in love with the idea of Tokyo, Japan. I cannot wait to travel there and explore the culture, as well as, their food and language.
Design of the Museum
My favorite exhibit in the museum was the Asian Water Garden. It was extremely beautiful. The garden had trees hovering the walkway bridge, which was over the pond and waterfall. The day was clear and blue and the weather was fantastic. When I visited the museum with my boyfriend, we took plenty of pictures with and of the garden because it was very peaceful and amazing. It made me connect with nature and the serenity of it. I felt happy and excited as I walked through the double automatic doors to the garden. One of the plants that caught my eye were the bamboos and their bright green color. The sound of the water in the waterfall made the entire exhibit relaxing and enjoyable. There was a bench where we sat and took in the experience of the garden. The best part was that there were not as many people passing through the garden. The exhibit was well arranged with the waterfall on one side and the pond with the rocks on the other. Overall, this garden was the best experience and exhibit in the museum where I will come back to and enjoy again.
Art and Core Values
The pictures above are of a grey sculpture of the Dancing Ganesh. He has a human body but an elephant head and is mounted on a mouse. He is widely known in India and associated with the religion of Hinduism. This artwork appeals to one of my core values, which is prosperity. As a college student, success is a huge thing for me to achieve. The Ganesh is known to be one of the Gods in India and well worshipped in temples, celebrations, etc. Each part of the Ganesh represents something different, but as a whole it is seen to represent prosperity and acceptance. For example, his big tummy represents the idea of ingesting all that life has to offer whether it is the good or bad. The trunk represents adaptability, in which one has to change their ways in light of new situations in order to learn and become successful. The visual representation allows me to explore and better understand my core value because I am able to see each and every detail the sculptor sculpted. From the top of his crown to the mouse, each part of the Ganesh is well sculpted. I can draw my knowledge upon the Ganesh and be able to relate to it in my life right now. This experience better understood what I believe in and cherish. It is a daily reminder to never give up on my dreams and to keep going no matter the obstacles. Therefore, this instills dedication and motivation for me to keep working hard.
Art and the Good Life
I believe the well detailed tan sculpture of the Seated Buddha is a great representation of the Good Life and one of its themes. It evokes the idea of seeking the Good Life and what it means to each individual. The Buddha is associated with the idea of Enlightenment, which is the gaining of wisdom and knowledge. This also goes hand in hand with Siddartha and how he runs into the Buddha and tries to find Enlightenment but cannot, therefore, making his own path to achievement. This sculpture communicates the Good Life theme because it is a sculpture of Buddha himself sitting down as if he is meditating and seeking the Good Life. This adds to my understanding or appreciation of this theme by taking in the essence of the Buddha and how he is depicted in this artwork. Although he seems calm and wise, at one point he was also seeking the Good Life and was able to accomplish it and reach Enlightenment in his own way.