Critical and Contextual Studies: The Human Form

Exploration of the Human Form

Grasp a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy and proportion of the human body as fundamental to accurately depict the human form.
Learn about different techniques used by artists to represent the human body, such as life drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
Understand the significance of body language and movement in conveying emotion or a narrative within a piece of work.

Historic and Contemporary Uses of the Human Form in Art

Acknowledge the evolution in representing the human body in art, from classical Greek statutes to modern abstract representations.
Investigate how various cultures and time periods have interpreted and portrayed the human form differently based on their societal values and beliefs.
Discover the usage of the human form to discuss gender, sexuality, race, politics, and identity in both historical and contemporary art.

Theoretical Approaches to the Human Form

Understand the psychological theories regarding the attraction towards portraying human beings in art.
Explore aesthetic theories that dictate how the human form should be presented, such as idealism, realism, and abstraction.
Delve into sociological perspectives on human form art, such as how societal standards of beauty and body image influence the portrayal of human bodies.

Analysis and Interpretation of Artworks

Develop the skill to analyse and interpret artworks involving the human form.
Consider how the elements of art (line, shape, form, colour, and texture) are utilised to represent the human figure successfully.
Recognise the implication of choices in pose, setting, and medium on the overall message or emotion conveyed in the artwork.

Relevant Artists and Artworks

Study key artists who are renowned for their work with the human form like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Auguste Rodin, Lucian Freud, and Jenny Saville.
Analyse and draw inspiration from their techniques, understanding the context and inspirations for their work.
Understand their contribution to the art world and how their groundbreaking representations of the human form have influenced later artists and movements.

Personal and Creative Response to the Human Form

Respond to the depiction of the human form in your own creative practice.
Explore different techniques and mediums to represent the human form and express your unique interpretation.
Use knowledge of historic and contemporary uses of the human form to make informed creative decisions and develop your own artistic voice.

The human form is an intricate and complex subject in art, providing endless potential for expression and exploration. Studying it will not only strengthen your technical skills but also deepen your understanding of the different ways in which the human body can be perceived and represented.