HU 11:12
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School
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *
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Course
144
Subject
Arts Humanities
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by rickfrascino
This week, I would like you to analyze one work created for the NASA Art
Program.
First Men on the Moon" by artist Paul Calle
Includes basic background of the artwork: name, artist, year, medium, and genre or
movement.
Title: "First Men on the Moon" Artist: Paul Calle Year: 1969 Medium: Pencil
drawing Genre/Movement: Realism
Provides the context for the artwork. Why was it created? If it was published or performed
somewhere, where and when? Who was its intended audience?
"First Men on the Moon" is a pencil drawing created by artist Paul Calle in
1969. The artwork captures the iconic moment when astronaut Neil
Armstrong became the first human to set foot on the lunar surface during
the Apollo 11 mission. The NASA Art Program commissioned this piece to
commemorate and document the historic moon landing.
The artwork was created to mark a monumental achievement in human
history, the Apollo 11 mission, and the first moonwalk. Paul Calle's
drawing was published in Life magazine, reaching a wide audience and
contributing to the collective memory of this significant event.
Discusses how the work relates to other works, including how other works have influenced it,
its allusions to earlier works, and what it does to introduce new ideas or aesthetics.
Calle's artwork is part of a tradition of representing exploration and
human achievement. It alludes to earlier historical works that celebrated
discoveries and adventures. It introduces new ideas and aesthetics by
merging realism with the portrayal of space exploration.
Discusses at least three visual elements of the work (i.e. – composition, framing, lines,
texture, etc.) in detail, using the work itself to illustrate the elements discussed.
)
1.
Composition: The composition centers around Neil Armstrong,
standing on the moon's surface with the American flag nearby. This
central focus emphasizes the historical moment and the astronaut's
role in it.
2.
Framing: Calle uses a realistic style with meticulous attention to
detail, capturing the lunar landscape, the astronaut's suit, and the
American flag. The detailed framing adds to the sense of realism
and historical accuracy.
3.
Texture: The texture in the drawing brings out the contrast between
the rough, barren lunar surface and the smooth astronaut's suit.
This contrast highlights the otherworldly nature of the moon.
Makes a detailed case for why the work is important or worth looking at.
"First Men on the Moon" is significant because it immortalizes a historic
event that marked human exploration beyond Earth. It serves as a visual
record of this remarkable achievement, contributing to the cultural and
artistic heritage of space exploration.
Describes your reaction to the work, including why you chose it, what it makes you think or feel, and wh
I chose this artwork because it encapsulates a moment of human triumph
and exploration. It makes me think about the audacity of the human spirit
and the courage required to venture into the unknown. The attention to
detail and the realism of the drawing impress me, as it brings the moment
to life. I admire this work for its ability to capture history and evoke a
sense of wonder about the universe.
What does NASA's space art program say about how NASA sees space and
how it wants Americans to see space?
NASA's space art program reflects how NASA sees space as not just
a scientific endeavor but also a source of inspiration, exploration,
and human achievement. It aims to present space as a frontier that
unites people and nations. NASA wants Americans to perceive space
as a realm of boundless possibilities, pushing the boundaries of
human potential and fostering a sense of unity and awe.
How do you think the space art program affected and continues to affect
American views of space exploration?
The space art program has played a crucial role in shaping and
perpetuating American views of space exploration. It has humanized
and popularized space endeavors, making them more relatable to
the public. By focusing on the artistic and symbolic aspects, it has
connected people to the broader significance of space exploration.
As a result, it has maintained public interest in space exploration
beyond the initial fervor of the space race.
Why might artists be interested in taking part in the NASA program?
Artists are drawn to the NASA program due to the unique
opportunity to capture historical and cultural moments in their
artwork. It allows them to be part of significant events and express
their creativity while contributing to a collective narrative of
exploration and discovery.
Why did NASA encourage its artists to focus on the symbolic rather than
the technological?
NASA encouraged artists to emphasize the symbolic over the
technological to engage the public on a deeper level. Symbolism,
emotions, and artistic interpretation resonate more with people than
technical details, making space exploration more accessible and
inspiring. It promotes a sense of wonder and curiosity that goes
beyond the scientific aspects.
Given the media saturation of our current age, do you think space art is as
important now as it was during the space race of the mid-20th century?
Why or why not?
In the current age of media saturation, space art remains essential
but in a different context. While the space race era was marked by
intense competition and national pride, space art today can still
captivate and inspire. It serves as a reminder of past achievements
and continues to evoke a sense of awe and exploration. In the
context of commercial space ventures and international
cooperation, space art remains a powerful tool to engage and
educate new generations about the wonders of space.
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