Blog Assignment #2

The Florence Cathedral took many years to complete due to numerous obstacles because of political change taking place in Florence in the 1330’s. The struggle for power in parts of northern Italy caused chaos and a period of conflict in Florence. The Cathedral plan was originally created in 1294 by Arnolfio di Cambio and after sporadic work, redesigns, and additions the Florence Cathedral was finally completed in 1436. The intricate design can be accredited to many creative individuals of the time. Design was important to Italian architecture; therefore, talented artists and sculptors were requested to do the work on the Cathedral. The Florence Cathedral is uniquely designed and encompasses an endless amount of miraculous art work and Byzantine style that reflects the Italian culture.
It is evident why the Florence Cathedral would be a monument of civic pride for all Florentines by its beautiful expression of religion which was the central element in the lives of many Florentines. There was much more to the Florence Cathedral then just magnificent work due to the timing of the masterwork Florentines had much to be proud of. During the fourteenth century Florence and much of Italy found themselves completely emerged in turmoil in which they felt was to be never ending. Despite the discouraging air in Florence during this time, Florentines came forth to create an exquisite work of art that symbolized a new beginning and ultimately future success. The accomplishment of the Florence Cathedral gave way to the Renaissance making Florence the source of inspiration.
The Cathedral gave Florentines something to be proud of during an era of unrest. It symbolizes over coming a tragic time and the emergence of future prosperity to Florence. No other city made an impact on its people quite like Florence did by encouraging the development of literature and all aspects of art during this time, thus, making Florence a model to the rest of Italy. Although the Florence Cathedral took many years to complete the final and articulate creation portrays historic achievement.

Blog Assignment # 1

My name is Katie Kuzelka and I am in my freshman year at ASU. My major is pre-med of Family Studies. I signed up for this class because I thought it would be a unique learning experience. I also heard that it was a great class. Examining and forming an opinion on a work of art can be very subjective, which has shown to be challenging for me in the past. I have little to no experience with art and I hope by taking this class I can learn new and interesting things that will ultimately make me a more well rounded individual. My goal is to form a greater understanding of classic art pieces and have the ability to identify the purpose of art work in a well educated way by the end of the semester. Also, I hope to develop a greater appreciation for art in the past and today.

My most memorable encounter with art was the Body World's exhibit at the Science Museum. Since I have little exposure to art, Body World's was probably the most fascinating form of art I have seen in person. The intricate way the bodies were presented made the exhibit captivating. I have seen classic artwork in books and displayed in certain places, but I have never taken the time to look into the detail that is unique to each artist or what the artist's purpose was behind the work of art.

Art is fascinating because a single thing as simple as color or style can be so significant to the work of art through its ability to relay a story to the viewer. It is a model of expression whether it is feelings or perception of the world around an individual. It is displayed in all aspects throughout the world not just on paper. For example, to me ballet is an art because I find the technique to be beautiful and extraordinary. Art is unique to everyone and can be portrayed differently depending upon the person.