Art History 113 - Art Matters

Page 13 of 17

Read the text and study the images below then move on to page 14.

 

9. Expressive/empathetic qualities

All the aspects that we have been looking at can create expressive qualities which evoke an empathetic response in the viewer. These responses will vary from one viewer to another, but it may be possible to generalise about some responses. Sculptures with flowing, rounded forms, which rest securely, might seem to suggest calm and repose, while those with sharp, angular contours, or highly manipulated surfaces might seem more vital and restless.

above Maillol, Summer, bronze, 1910-1911. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.
above Giacometti, Standing Woman, bronze, c. 1958-9. Tate Gallery, London.
   
For example, the weighty, simple forms of Maillol's sculpture seem tranquil and timeless. In contrast, the eroded surfaces of Giacometti's work suggest the sculptor's intense, even troubled, relationship to the figure, and may seem to offer a comment on the vulnerability of the human condition.
   
 

above Auguste Rodin, Danaide, marble, 1885. Musee Rodin, Paris.

above Auguste Rodin, She was the helmetmaker's beautiful wife, bronze, 1888. Musee Rodin, Paris.

 

Both these works are by August Rodin but the Danaide is smooth and beautiful whereas She was the helmetmaker's beautiful wife is jagged and expressive.