When I first received the assignment, I was a bit confused, as I didn't really understand the point of the exercise, but I grudgingly began preparation, as it was due in such a short period of time.
Before I began, I looked up the artist Jason suggested, Barnett Newman, and immediately my inspiration and enthusiasm about the project was bolstered. Reading about Barnett Newman's background (his study of philosophy, his tutelage under Milton Avery, and relationship to the work of Mark Rothke) gave much understanding and context to his work and while many of his initial viewers thought his work emotionally void, Newman was always adamant about the emotionally charge nature of his work.
I particularly saw this in his series, The Stations of the Cross, which some believe to be representative of holocaust victims.
And so, with renewed vigor, I began my assignment. It was a little tedious, but I enjoyed it enormously - it's not as busy as the examples Jason posted on the class blog, but I'll blame Newman for that.
Good night, and good luck.
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EDIT:
Here are a few of Rothko's paintings. I think it's important to see the scale of both artists' works - they certainly did.
Aaaand:
A series of lithographic prints by Newman - The 18 Cantos.
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EDIT II:
I got nervous looking at the examples and added more lines. Now I hate it. And I'm even more nervous. Cuss.
Good to see you're starting the semester off with such vigor. I hope this is something that will continue as we proceed.
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