Evaluation6

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Park University *

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AR115

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Arts Humanities

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Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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Question 1: Which role of the artist fits Kerry James Marshall best in Memento #5? Kerry James Marshall’ Memento #5 is primarily about showing his time and place. He's known for his art that reflects African-American life and societal issues. This painting from 2003 represents the past century in the United States. The painting features a black angel drawing on a silver curtain in a living room. In the background, there are portraits of important figures like President John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. Together, these elements tell a story about the Civil Rights Movement, its progress, and the challenges it still faces. The black angel symbolizes hope and progress, while the silver curtain represents the remaining obstacles. The portraits remind us of the sacrifices made during the Civil Rights Movement. Memento #5 is a powerful work that reflects its historical context and the enduring spirit of the movement. Question 2: What has the most emphasis in the work, or what is its focal point? What does that tell you about the work? The focal point of Memento #5 is the black angel drawing on the silver curtain. The angel is placed in the center of the painting, and it is the largest figure. The silver curtain is also a prominent feature in the painting. It is draped across what looks like an American living room, and it divides the painting into two halves. The emphasis on the black angel and the silver curtain suggests that Marshall is interested in exploring themes of race, hope, and progress. The angel can be seen as a symbol of hope for the future, while the curtain can be seen as a symbol of the challenges that remain ahead. Question 3: What associations does this work bring to your mind? What element, principle of design, or piece of subject matter helps evoke that association? When I look at Memento #5, I am reminded of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle for racial equality in the United States. The element of design that helps to evoke these associations is the use of color. The painting is also monochromatic, the use of black and white creates a sense of solemnity, which is appropriate for a painting about the Civil Rights Movement. The black angel and the silver curtain also evoke associations of hope and progress. The angel is a symbol of hope, while the curtain suggests that there is still work to be done in the fight for racial equality. Question 4: How does the way the medium is handled (roughness or smoothness of paint, stone, etc.) contribute to your interpretation of this work? Can you imagine the media being handled another way, or a different medium being used? Marshall's use of materials in "Memento #5" significantly shapes the painting's feeling and story. He expertly blends different textures and substances to evoke specific emotions and meanings in the artwork. One standout feature is Marshall's choice of textured, sparkling silver for the curtains. This decision adds a sense of touch and depth to the curtains, making them seem more real than a flat canvas would. The textured silver interacts with light and shadow, making the curtains appear 3D almost like you could reach out and touch them. This careful use of materials makes the artwork feel more lifelike and immediate, drawing viewers into its world. In contrast,

other parts of the painting, like the central figure and the background, have a smoother and more traditional paint application. This contrast between the textured curtains and the smooth background is intentional. It highlights the importance of the curtains in the painting, emphasizing them as the main focus. Question 5: How does understanding the artist’s identity contribute to your interpretation of the work? Understanding Kerry James Marshall's identity as a black American artist is integral to interpreting Memento #5. Marshall's work is deeply influenced by his personal experiences and those of other black Americans. His career is dedicated to addressing issues of Black identity, representation, and social justice through art, challenging the historical invisibility of Black individuals in both art and society. In the context of Memento #5, Marshall's identity adds layers to the interpretation. The painting becomes part of a broader issue of the representation of Black individuals in art and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Marshall's unique perspective shaped his choice of subject matter, infusing his artwork with profound messages and perspectives on hope, dreams, and the challenges faced by black Americans. Question 6: What historical or environmental relationships affect how you interpret this work? Kerry James Marshall's painting Memento #5 is a powerful and timely work that reflects the historical and contemporary struggle for racial equality. The painting is set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement, and the central figure standing as a sign of hope similar to the message conveyed by the civil rights activists and pays homage to the movement's legacy. However, the painting is also relevant to the early 21st century, as it resonates with ongoing conversations about civil rights, racial justice, and equality. Marshall's identity as an African- American artist adds depth to the interpretation of the painting, underscoring his dedication to addressing Black identity, representation, and social justice through his art.

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