I feel this backs up what I said and expands on it in a very interesting way. I feel that, after reading that information, the work has more meaning for me.

Part C: Make an analysis of the visual language.

Colour: Colour has not been used in this composition.
Value/Tone: Many tones of black and white (i.e. greys) have been used in this composition. The tones create movement within the image, as well as emphasise the scale of the images. It definitely emphasises the realistic points to this image. The use of only black and white links it to the time, as well as creating a dramatic and tense mood within the work. Value is used to imply depth as well as texture, particularly.
Line: The complete lack of straight lines and sharp corners in this composition is significant. With the rounded, gradual lines (that, when looked at closely, would not be considered actual lines-more just tonal changes) showing the changes between various tones of black/white, this adds to the texture and implied depth.
Shape: The shapes in this piece are very organic, emphasised by the lack of proper line. In both pieces, they provide movement, drawing the viewer from the bottom of the piece to the top by way of their vertical forms.
Size: Size is very important in these images. Due to the lack of an item that could give you the scale of the painting, the viewer must know something about the size of the mushroom clouds produced by the atomic bombs. If the viewer does, the viewer will realise how large the clouds were and be blown away (pardon the pun) by the powerful image.
Space: Though some of the negative space in the first image has other parts of positive space incorporated, the positive vs. Negative space in both of the images are significant, as they provide a brilliant contrast and a large amount of emphasis and meaning. Contrast is created is created especially in the second one, where the white and the black contrast toward the top of the image, but also adds emphasis to the main shape of the mushroom cloud, which also gives meaning to the work by showing the great impact (also showed by size) the bomb/s had on the various places. In the first image, the same effect is created. If one was to see only the area of the composition that is the ‘main’ area (positive space) the piece would not make a whole lot of sense. The use of negative space, therefore, gives the pieces meaning.
Texture: Implied texture is created using, again the tones and values of the black and whites in the clouds. Also, there is an element of actual texture. The piece is made of embroiled silk, and therefore has a texture. I don’t know what this is (I would not feel a painting in an art gallery) but I can presume that it feels like silk and embroidery, the meaning of which has already been discussed.

Balance is created by using the vertical shapes of the mushroom clouds, as well as the balance of the tones. A strange, almost-symmetrical(ity) also contributes to the balance of the images.

Part D: What does the work mean, what was the artist trying to communicate?

This set of pieces certainly portrays some of the dynamics of war. It is stated that this particular work was done as a means to communicate with North Korea about such issues. War is a very influential thing, creating all sorts of effects on populations, flora, fauna, well being, governments and economies. I feel that by putting two images, and joining them (with a hinge apparently) symbolises how they not only the country/ies being attacked are effected but the country attacking also. Everyone is effected by war, no matter of geographical location, race or religion etc. Also, the two images seem to represent both the historical and contemporary episodes of conflict. I feel as if I am living a personal memory when I see the work, as well as being told that war is bad (a sort of propaganda?) and also being given a strong social message, as stated above.

Activity B:
How does an artists cultural background impact on their artworks?


The cultural background of an artist can significantly impact their artworks. With religion, beliefs and cultural stories impacting and inspiring many artists, the country of origin can define their works. These things can give them inspiration, and a style to follow and base their works on or define their works by.
The history of the country of origin, and events associated with the country can also provide inspiration and impact on the works of an artist. With many artists finding inspiration from past events that are relevant to their cultural background, artists might use these events to inspire them, or to choose a message that they might want to portray through one or more of their pieces of work.
Some countries have available a much larger supply of materials, whereas others are limited. This would also impact on an artist’s work. It would change the ways they would be able to express their messages or desires. It is important to note that this could be either positive or negative, with a major supply being useful, giving an array to choose from, yet also meaning that the work might not have as true a origin if it was made out of the original materials that are predominant in that country.
The range of cultures that an artist is exposed to, whether that be via parentage, advantage/disadvantage, presence of art galleries and/or schools and education would also impact on their styles and work. When an artist is only exposed to one type of art, it is likely that this artist will portray this type of art, when the artist is exposed to a large variety of styles, it is likely that the artist will vary, choose a particular one that isn’t common to the particular area. Though, that doesn’t mean that the artist will not adopt a style that is close to his or her heritage and hart.
I am sure that some feel that depending on their cultural background, their work/s is/are more or less likely to be accepted by the public etc. This could influence the meanings and messages of their paintings. It is true of many artists, though, that they do not really care what the audience thinks, or how much money the make: they want to paint or draw or sculpt from the heart, so this is completely dependent on the artist.
Traditions and styles are also very significant. You think of Australian Aboriginal work, you get a pretty clear picture. You think of African American work, you get a pretty clear picture. The original style, or tradition, the artist is brought up to know and love would also influence their works.