Comparing Romantic and Impressionist Art Masterpieces

1 Comparing Movements and Works of Art Joel Saysay The University of Arizona Global Campus Art 101 Professor Linda King Nov. 20, 2023 Introduction

2 In this essay, we will dive into the world of art and look at two amazing paintings. Théodore Géricault made "The Raft of the Medusa," showing survival and strong emotions, fitting the Romantic style. Claude Monet painted "Arrival of the Normandy Train," capturing the energy of a changing time, typical of Impressionism. Both paintings help us understand human life and how society changed through art. Art One Title : The Raft of the Medusa

3 Artist : Théodore Géricault Date : 1818-1819 Location : Musée du Louvre, Paris Movement : "The Raft of the Medusa" is associated with the Romantic movement in art. The Romantic period emerged in the late 18th century and lasted throughout the 19th century (Black McCoy, 2021). An emphasis on emotion, individualism, nature, and the sublime characterized it. Théodore Géricault's "The Raft of the Medusa," painted between 1818 and 1819, depicts the aftermath of the shipwreck of the French frigate Méduse in 1816 (Black McCoy, 2021). The painting captures the chaos and desperation of survivors stranded on a makeshift raft, reaching out for a distant hope of rescue. Géricault masterfully employs the interplay of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro, to accentuate the drama unfolding on the makeshift raft. The stark contrast between illuminated figures and shadowy depths creates a palpable sense of tension and impending doom. Diagonal lines weave throughout the composition, adding to the dynamic energy that permeates the scene. The figures, meticulously

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4 rendered in their expressions of anguish and despair, serve as poignant reminders of the human spirit's struggle against adversity. Beyond its technical brilliance, "The Raft of the Medusa" serves as a profound commentary on the human condition. Géricault's unflinching portrayal of the survivors' plight, ranging from desperation to cannibalism, exposes the raw emotions and primal instincts that emerge in the face of imminent death. The painting also serves as a scathing indictment of the French government's negligence, which led to the tragedy and subsequent suffering of the survivors (Black McCoy, 2021). Upon its debut in 1819, "The Raft of the Medusa" sparked intense controversy, challenging conventional artistic norms and societal expectations (Black McCoy, 2021). The painting's unflinching realism and unapologetic portrayal of human suffering shocked viewers accustomed to idealized depictions of heroism and glory. Yet, over time, the painting's power and significance have only grown, cementing its status as a masterpiece of French Romanticism. "The Raft of the Medusa" is a testament to Géricault's artistic genius and his profound understanding of the human condition. The painting's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke empathy, provoke

5 thought, and challenge our perceptions of human nature. It is a work that demands to be seen, felt, and contemplated, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer's consciousness. Reflecting Political and Stylistic Influences The creation of "The Raft of the Medusa" was deeply influenced by post-revolutionary France's tumultuous political and social climate (Black McCoy, 2021). The Napoleonic Wars had left a legacy of disillusionment and upheaval, fostering a cultural shift towards Romanticism, a movement that emphasized emotion, imagination, and individual expression. Géricault's painting embodies the spirit of Romanticism, challenging traditional artistic norms and embracing the raw, unfiltered depiction of human suffering. Stylistically, "The Raft of the Medusa" draws inspiration from various artistic traditions. The painting's dramatic use of chiaroscuro echoes the Baroque masters, while its compositional structure and attention to anatomical detail reflect the influence of Neoclassicism. Yet, Géricault's unique approach, characterized by its heightened emotional intensity and realistic depiction of human tragedy, sets it apart from its predecessors.

6 Art Two Title : Arrival of the Normandy Train by artist Claude Monet Artist : Claude Monet Date : 1877

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7 Location : Paris, France Movement : "Arrival of the Normandy Train" by Claude Monet is associated with the Impressionist movement. The Impressionist movement emerged in the late 19th century in France and is characterized by its emphasis on capturing the transient effects of light, the use of loose brushstrokes, and an interest in portraying contemporary life. Claude Monet's "Arrival of the Normandy Train" is a captivating Impressionist painting from 1877 ( Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare , n.d.). The artwork captures the scene of a train arriving at a bustling station, rendered with Monet's signature brushstrokes and vibrant color palette. The play of light and shadow is particularly notable, as it brings the bustling energy of the train station to life. Monet's masterful use of light and color is evident in the painting's vibrant palette, dominated by shades of blue, green, and yellow. The interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and dimension, while the fragmented brushstrokes convey the bustling activity of the train station. The imposing locomotive anchors the composition, its steam billowing upwards, obscuring the figures on the platform. The diagonal lines of the tracks and the arches of the train shed add to the sense of dynamism and movement.

8 "Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare" celebrates modernity and the transformative power of technology ( Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare , n.d.). Monet's fascination with the train station reflects his interest in capturing the fleeting moments of everyday life, transformed by the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The painting also serves as a testament to the artist's ability to capture a place's essence, conveying the train station's hustle and bustle, the excitement of travelers, and the sheer scale of modern architecture. "Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare" is a significant contribution to Impressionism, a movement that emphasized the capture of fleeting moments and the interplay of light and atmosphere. Monet's masterful use of color, light, and composition elevates the scene from a mere snapshot of a train station to a powerful and evocative work of art. The painting continues to captivate viewers with its vibrant energy and ability to capture modernity's transformative impact on the urban landscape. Social and Contextual Factors The painting's creation coincides with the transformative era of the Industrial Revolution, which profoundly impacted urban landscapes and society as a whole. "Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint- Lazare" exemplifies the key tenets of Impressionism ( Arrival of the

9 Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare , n.d.). The painting's focus on capturing fleeting moments and the interplay of light and atmosphere is evident in Monet's loose brushstrokes, vibrant palette, and emphasis on the effects of light and shadow. Conclusion These artworks by Géricault and Monet have powerful stories. "The Raft of the Medusa" tells us about people facing tough times, making us think about empathy and hardship. On the other hand, "Arrival of the Normandy Train" shows the excitement of a new era through lively colors and quick brushstrokes. Both paintings take us on a journey through history, revealing the feelings and stories hidden in the strokes of these talented artists.

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10 Reference : Arrival of the Normandy Train, Gare Saint-Lazare . (n.d.). The Art Institute of Chicago. https://www.artic.edu/artworks/16571/arrival-of-the-normandy- train-gare-saint-lazare Black McCoy, Dr. C. (2021, May 27). Théodore Géricault, Raft of the Medusa – Smarthistory . Smarthistory.org. https://smarthistory.org/theodore-gericault-raft-of-the-medusa/

Week 2 Assignment Art 101

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