Non-Western Art Critique

Bryne Westwood

March 18, 2015

Professor Bomboy

HUM 101

Non-Western Art Critique

So Much More Than a Tree

            It is easy to say that art is diverse in so many ways. It is also easy to determine that everyone has their own point of view. One person can view a piece of art as beautiful, while the other person thinks it is dreadful. When choosing a piece of artwork to critique, I took into consideration all of the elements that would need to be addressed. Ancient Chinese art has a certain style and can make anyone think outside of the box. "Pine and Stone," demonstrates simplicity and detail all in one picture. It was created by Shen Zhou, during the Ming Dynasty (China Online Museum). Zhou enjoyed combining his poetry with his paintings ("Prince"). This particular beautiful piece of artwork was one of many in a collection of artwork by Zhou.

            At first glance, it would appear that “Pine and Stone” does not amount to much. If you look closely and give more thought into it though, it is really quite admirable. Without a doubt, the true focal point of this painting is the tree itself. "Pine and Stone" shows a delicate, yet bold use of lines all throughout the painting. Shen Zhou enjoyed using monochrome ink when showing off his creativity (China Online Museum).We can see the solid black lines were used in areas of great details, while other areas are a gray color that blends with the rest of the painting. As far as shape and proportion, the tree stands isolated from other trees while growing either next to or through the stone. When looking at it through the Golden Ratio point of view, the painting does indeed follow suit. The colors of "Pine and Stone" are black and gray, but the texture proves that the difference in color is noticeable. Black lines indicate details such as the individual pines on the tree and circles for a simple detail of a leaf. It makes the tree look realistic, but portions of the stone are not so realistic. It would appear that the specific location of this part of nature wants the viewer to feel like they are up close. The background does not have any detail, but helps focus on what is in front of us a little easier. The painting also flows from left to right making it easy for the viewer to focus their eyes in one spot at first eye contact. As far as repetition and value, the lines and circles stay consistent throughout the landscape of this painting. However, when looking at the balance of "Pine and Stone," it can easily be seen that it follows an informal balance. This is due to the fact that the left and right sides of the painting are not equally balanced in terms of focal point. The eye is most likely going to be drawn to the left side and up and then back down to see what the ground is showing. Traditionally though, some Chinese paintings are meant to be viewed from bottom to top. Either way, the tree is the strongest contender for the viewer. Finally, the form and unity of the painting is simple. Lines and circles whether straight, curved, or positioned differently, make "Pine and Stone," a well put together piece of art. The use of elements, as well as, principles of design are certainly visible in "Pine and Stone." Overall, the objects in the painting look like they belong together in nature. Everything flows nicely and can give any viewer an easy, yet beautiful perspective.

            The beautiful "Pine and Stone" first appeared during the late Yuan and early Ming Dynasty (China Online Museum). Shen Zhou was best known for his poetry, paintings, and calligraphy. He was actually the founder of the Wu School in China (China Online Museum). The Wu School was known to the people of China as a place for masters in art to come together (China Online Museum). Shen Zhou wanted everyone to consider painting as a form of "meditation rather than an occupation," (China Online Museum).This particular artwork simply portrays a pine tree lingering on the side of a mountain and surrounded by stone. The authenticity of this painting is shown by the use of ink painted on silk and the subtle red stamps indicating that it was once passed from one household to another (China Online Museum). As a Chinese painter during the Ming Dynasty, Zhou was passionate about adding his own flairs of tranquility, warmth, and confidence to his artwork (China Online Museum). Shen Zhou strived to make his art as calming and peaceful as possible. "Pine and Stone" easily holds those qualities, but keeps simplicity in its back pocket. How beautiful and calming simplicity can be!

            The function of "Pine and Stone" is to make the viewer see things for what they are. The tree is surrounded by bushes, stone and is isolated from everything else in whatever area Zhou thought or saw it to be. It promotes a sense of peace and tranquility, as well as, reminds us that the simple things in life are beautiful and at times overlooked. The reason that this painting fits so well within the Ming Dynasty is because of its use of lines, colors, and textures. It was also widely popular to use ink of all colors, but mostly black. The Ming Dynasty restored realistic art by emphasizing the importance of landscapes and nature based pieces of art ("Timeline). Calligraphy was also of great importance during the Ming Dynasty and was Shen Zhou's preferred methods of art. It was often found that Zhou combined his poetry with his artwork (China Online Museum). Also during this time period, it was encouraged to "value the presence of personality in a work over mere technical skill," ("Timeline"). Shen Zhou was indeed known for being a warm, vigorous, calm and peaceful individual which gives credit to the idea of showing personality within the artwork (China Online Museum).

            At the end of the day, I would say without question, that "Pine and Stone" gave me a form of inspiration. It made me consider taking a break once in a while and just taking a moment to breathe. It's simplicity and gentle flow made me feel so relaxed. I felt at peace and almost connected to the painting. I viewed the tree as being a reminder to everyone that just because you feel isolated or stuck, it does not mean that you are a weak person. The tree might appear as though it is alone, but is stronger than it seems. Using your inner strength, ability to stand tall, and just forgetting about everyday struggles can build you to be the best you. I really took all parts of "Pine and Stone" as a personal meaning to just slow down sometimes. It is really important to appreciate your surroundings and the simple things in life.

        ______________________________________________________________________________

Works Cited

"Blog #7: Non-Western Art and Culture." Myrns Wonderings from Prince of Wales. 18 Nov. 2011. Web. 16 Mar. 2015. <https://fromprinceofwales.wordpress.com/2011/11/19/blog-7-non-western-arts-and-culture/>.

Department of Asian Art. "Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)". In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/ming/hd_ming.htm (October 2002)

Yibo, Yu. "Shen Zhou - Ming Dynasty." Shen Zhou Paintings. 21 Mar. 2009. Web. 16 Mar. 2015. <http://www.chinaonlinemuseum.com/painting-shen-zhou.php>.