Introduction to Art Philosophy: Art as an Idea

[New Masters Academy]

In this lesson, instructor Steve Huston provides you with an introduction to the world of art and art theory. You will explore art as an idea and learn to answer the question of “who is an artist?”. Steve will also share with you a binary system that applies to all art forms. It contains all the necessary ingredients that you would need to become a successful artist. After this lesson, you will find your creative intent and begin to discover a deeper meaning within your artwork.

This lesson belongs to the course Finding Your Artistic Voice and Visual Style. In this 3-week course, senior New Masters Academy instructor Steve Huston and legendary Disney Art Director Bill Perkins will teach you how to develop your voice and visual style as a professional artist. Steve will lecture on art philosophy that helps you better understand the main theories and concepts of being a creative. Next, you will learn from Bill an analytical approach to developing your unique visual style. You will be referring to the Old Masters and analyzing their works for inspiration. After this course, you will be able to create original artworks using your artistic style as a language that delivers powerful messages and metaphors to the viewers.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.

[DebbiePeterson]

I chose Singer-Sargent’s Cashmere. In my first analysis, I saw soft daylight, shining from behind. Casual poses but formal clothing. I noticed the colors are subdued but the brushstrokes in the background and their robes is lively and even playful. Then I noticed a seriousness to to the facial expressions and the postures. And although the robes are all slightly different, there’s a sameness to their faces and coloring, implying they’re related. Also, the postures are a mixed bag–comforting, one shutting off, one seems overwhelmed. And none are smiling. They seem comfortable but serious. I feel as if we’ve caught a group of daughters/cousins in a single family on their way to a formal family function, and I feel sadness, so maybe a funeral. There’s a potential for playfulness and joy, but it’s been pushed down. And from their suspicious looks at the viewer, it’s not a good time to interfere.

[Karlo Rukavina]

Wow, this lesson just elevated my life experience. Absolute beauty!

[Author]

Posts