Module 11

1. Explain why you selected each of the TWO videos you choose from the selection listed above.

The Mystic North- I just like the collection of artists highlighted in this film. I also like these films. I think they're generally interesting. 

Dada and Surrealism- I just wrote a lesson plan on surrealism. I thought it would be interesting to dive a bit more into the art movement. 

2. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

The Mystic North-

Goya lived through war. He lost his hearing. He made these drawings that show the dark inhumane images from his life. Then he withdrew from the world and moved to a place outside of Madrid. He painted his "Black Paintings" directly on the walls of his home. They also mentioned that his painting of a man eating a bloody corpse was hung on the wall of his dinning room. I don't know very much about Goya, but after watching this one can understand that he was most likely a sick man. My heart breaks looking at his art. 

Antoni Gaudi- they describe Gaudi as Goyas opposite. Unlike Goya, Gaudi embraced God and all of his glory. He built a beautiful cathedral that appears to be growing. Unfortunately, the cathedral is now owned my Japanese business men who are turning the structure into a Disney Land-esque building. Gaudi's architecture is beautifully organic with rounded edges smooth curves. His work is a modern nod to the future.

Picasso- I feel like I just learned that Santa isn't real. I had no idea that Picasso made such suggestive works, I apparently lived under a rock.. Apparently Picasso spent a bit of time in the Red Light District and brothels. Who knew... 

Dali- His museum is actually where he is buried. "Dali gave us the language of dreams". He created images about life, death, sex, and self. The Surrealists actually kicked him out of their group because they thought he was a fascist sympathizer. 

Dada and Surrealism- Dada and Surrealism are heavily influenced and a reaction to World War 1. The Surrealists were creating a response to the fascists.  Dada typically creates images that are anti-war or mocking of it. Surrealism is an escape and not so obviously antiwar 

2. How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

The readings line up with the artists, movements, and time period of the film. They continue to add depth to the topic. I actually found the first video more insightful on the artists than the reading. 

3. What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

Both videos were great. They were filled with information and beautiful imagery. It was interesting to learn more about many of these artists and to see the places where they lived. They definitely gave me more background knowledge of the artists and their art forms.