Neoclassical vs. Romantic
Neoclassical and romantic are among the movements that have revolutionized arts. The main difference between the movements lies in their approaches to the relationship between man and his environment. On the one hand, the Romantic Movement encouraged a perspective which recognized the intricate and close connection between man and nature (Chapter 22, n.d). Furthermore, this movement reflected a longing for what had past. On the other hand, the neoclassical movement was more rooted in reality (Chapter 21, n.d). It gained strength from the Enlightenment movement and sought to upset the political status quo. Those behind this movement advocated for clarity and made clear their opposition to autocratic governance.
Ingres Grande Odalisque vs. Velazquez Rokeby Venus
Ingres Grande’s Odalisque and Rokeby’s Venus share a number of important similarities. The main similarity is in their composition. Both artworks feature nude women. In both paintings, the intensity of the nudity is somewhat watered down by such other objects as drapery and scanty clothing that appears designed to draw attention away from the nudity. The paintings are more different than they are similar. Among the differences is the level of clarity. On the one hand, Odalisque employs bolder colors which create interest and dimension. Furthermore, this lady in this painting faces the viewer. It could be that this is deliberate and intended to add to the clarity of the painting. On the other hand, Venus uses more muted colors and appears rather busy. Additionally, the lady in the painting faces away from the audience. This lady’s pose is also more sensual and uninhibited.
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Gericault’s Madwoman with Mania of Envy vs. Ingres’ Napoleon Enthroned
Madwoman with Mania of Envy features an elderly lady who stares intently while leaning forward. The lady’s face betrays a sense of anxious aloofness and fear. Napoleon Enthroned depicts wildly different energies and emotions. In the painting, Napoleon is seated on what appears to be a throne while holding weapons. This painting is a reflection of power and confidence. An argument can be made that both Napoleon Enthroned and Madwoman with Mania of Envy are representations of mental illness. The deep red eyes of the woman and the fact that she is leaning forward could indicate that the woman in Madwoman with Mania of Envy has an anxiety disorder. On the other hand, Napoleon Enthroned probably highlights such mental issues as narcissism or a personality disorder characterized by obnoxious confidence and selfishness. Napoleon’s posture and the weapons in his hand are the tools that the artist used to address mental disturbance.
Reflection on Styles and Movements
By conducting an analysis of the neoclassical and romantic movements, I now have a better understanding of the impact that art can have. The effects of these movements extended beyond simply inspiring artists. It also enabled Western societies to demand governance reform. For example, the French Revolution’s success is partly the rest of the neoclassical movement (Chapter 21, n.d). I understand that this revolution also derived energy and inspiration from the romantic style. While there are significant differences between the two styles, I find it difficult to distinguish them. This difficulty stems from the fact that the styles share various similarities and have influenced one another.
Kehinde vs. Neoclassical
Kehinde’s work is a reflection of the enduring influence of art movements. He leverages the power of the neoclassical style to shed light on contemporary social issues. One of these paintings shows a black man on a horse, striking a pose that suggests a hunger for freedom and a quest for liberty. The difference between this painting and those analyzed above lies in the depiction of authority and power. On the one hand, the neoclassical paintings portray aristocrats and other individuals who wielded power. On the other hand, Kehinde uses his work to empower African Americans who for years, have lacked access to opportunity. Basically, Kehinde reclaims the neoclassical style to convey the message that it is time for African Americans and minorities in general to demand recognition and strive for freedom. The commentary enabled me to understand that the neoclassical movement is still alive and that it can be employed in tackling social injustices and inequalities. What I found to be odd is that Kehinde’s work has received a warm reception. I would expect the audience to find Kehinde’s work to be a cheap imitation. It is clear that Kehinde’s primary intention is to elevate the African American community to a platform where the beauty of its people can be celebrated.
References
Chapter 21. (n.d). Neoclassicism: the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.
Chapter 22. (n.d). Romanticism: the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.
