Upon walking into the Brooklyn Museum, which by the way was free with my BC Id, I was overwhelmed with the amount of artwork on display. Having never visited the Brooklyn Museum I was pleasantly surprised to find such interesting exhibits. I especially enjoyed those of the Egyptian galleries and Soul of a Nation. Using what I have learned, I had a whole new perspective on viewing art.
One specific piece of art really stuck out to me when visiting the Museum. A statue of a woman whose asking was red skin and what seemed like male facial features. Before reading the brief description of the artwork I began to use formal analysis to determine the different elements of the piece. The statue had a coffin like shape and was covered in hieroglyphics. I assumed that the coffin like statue was telling the story of some kind of after life of whomever the woman was. Using previous knowledge of the Egyptians great interest in the afterlife, I came to the conclusion that the writing has to do with the woman’s journey. After creating my own ideas of the artwork I of course read the description of the piece. The statue indeed was a coffin of a woman and the writing was the story of how a priest transformed the woman into a male so that she could have the ability to the idea of rebirth. Ancient Egyptians believed that a male was necessary for the process of birth and rebirth. Formal analysis help me understand the complexities of the piece and how to full appreciate its value much better than I did before.
My most enjoyable experience at the Brooklyn Museum was the Soul of a Nation exhibit. As much as I enjoyed the ancient world art the Soul exhibit was more of my style. As I entered the room I was pleased to see the many beautiful and moving images inside. The artwork that caught my attention immediately was that of Carolyn Lawrence Black Children Keep Your Spirits Free. The reason I chose this piece was for its vibrant vivid colors and detailed lines of the people within the picture. The different elements used to describe its meaning, it was truly and eye catcher. The representation of the children laughing,playing and playing music was so peaceful and innocent. Using from what is going on in today’s world I see how the artist is trying to make the point that no matter what color the children are just children. They are peaceful and bring peace to those who protect and observe. I am in awe of the beauty that this artwork brings in besides the actual colors. It was really one of my favorites.
My experience at the Brooklyn Museum was one of many surprises. Before coming I had no expectations and had no idea that I was going to enjoy it so much. The pieces I observed showed me the more meaningful side of art. How using simply paint and clay could impact and tell such detailed stories using zero words. Using what we learned has deeply changed how I now view and understand art. It has given me a new perspective on art and I am forever grateful it did.
