Searching for Bouguereau

[Christy Talbott]

I don't understand why there is this desire to compare styles of art. It's very simply, subjective. The art speaks for itself, don't you think?

[Steven Sweeney]

Originally Posted by Christy Talbott

I don't understand why there is this desire to compare styles of art. It's very simply, subjective. The art speaks for itself, don't you think?

The point where things break down for me and become beneath pointlessness is when one observer says, "I like this," and the rebuttal is "No you don't" (or some passive-aggressive version of, "Then you're a brigand or a fool, or both.") That's not an art critic at work, it's a Psych 101 case study.

There isn't a single artist mentioned in this thread about whom I can't say that I admire some of his work and don't care much for other parts of it. The historical bookmark is instructive but doesn't add or detract from the aesthetic impression that a piece of artwork makes on me.

Except Renoir. Don't get it. Don't like any of it. (Please -- if anyone is thinking about responding, "Yes you do," don't.)

[Christy Talbott]

Originally Posted by Steven Sweeney

There isn't a single artist mentioned in this thread about whom I can't say that I admire some of his work and don't care much for other parts of it. The historical bookmark is instructive but doesn't add or detract from the aesthetic impression that a piece of artwork makes on me.

Except Renoir. Don't get it. Don't like any of it. (Please -- if anyone is thinking about responding, "Yes you do," don't.)

Amen to that!

I'll disappoint you though... I first saw Renoir in the museum as a young child, and he was probably my favorite at that time. Of course having had no art appreciation classes, I have to admit I also quite liked Holly Hobbie and singing Farmer in the Dell! :P

[Peter Dransfield]

I used to have problems with Renoir as well being primarily a 'line' artist - in fact Renoir had problems with himself periodically hardening up edges and drawing but his best work is where drawing remains fluid and edges become lost. The translucent, succulent quality he gets painting (female) flesh is mesmerising. Not at the top of my personal pantheon but in the top league.

[Peter Dransfield]

Originally Posted by Christy Talbott

I don't understand why there is this desire to compare styles of art. It's very simply, subjective. The art speaks for itself, don't you think?

Yes art does speak for itself but then we discuss whether what it says appeals and/or says something shallow or deep. Culture is always reflecting on what it is saying from the theatre to music to the visual arts and it is the push and pull of comparison and discussion that moves us in one direction or another. Individuals come along who appear to have more to say than others or who encapsulate moods and aspirations in society. Of course commercialism distorts and even directs this process from time to time but quality usually although not always wins out. Society does not stay still and neither do we.