Introduction
The America Tropical Mural by David Alfaro Siqueiros may be perceived differently. Still, it can be said that the work results from a fusion of history, social sciences, and, of course, art. This fresco, located in Los Angeles, has won the hearts of lovers of fine art since its creation and accessibility to the public. This essay will explore the meaning of the fresco, its principles of design, features, and arrangement of visual elements that the author uses. In the context of art and history, it can be assumed that this work is a cultural landmark that must be treated with care.
Basic Information Regarding the Mural
The America Tropical Mural is a significant work of art, measuring approximately 18 by 82 feet. The fresco was created in Los Angeles, California, on the wall of the Italian Hall overlooking El Pueblo de Los Angeles and opened on 9 October 1932 (Rainer & Macdonald, 2018). This fresco, executed by the famous Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros, depicts a monumental scene that reflects the themes of oppression and imperialism, which makes viewers think about the topic. Thus, this work of art will become an interesting object for analysis for connoisseurs of art and those fond of studying history. The author depicts his idea on the mural, so it will not be difficult to understand the artist’s central message even for a person who has no connection to his life with art.
Design Principles and Visual Elements Used
As for the principles of design and the elements used by Siqueiros in creating the fresco, the artist used various techniques to convey his idea. The central figure of the fresco is an indigenous Indian who is depicted crucified on a double cross and surrounded by a group of armed soldiers (Rainer & Macdonald, 2018). This bold depiction symbolizes the artist’s idea of demonstrating the suffering indigenous peoples experienced during colonization by other powers. The soldiers, who also appear in the painting of the fresco, symbolize the blossoming power of imperialism, which prevented people from living a whole and free life.
To increase the emotional impact of the mural on the viewer, the artist was also able to use the basic principles of design skillfully. For example, Alfaro Siqueiros applied the principle of proportions and scale to emphasize the scale of the most essential elements of the work of art and to draw attention away from the less relevant to understanding the idea of detail. As already mentioned, the mural’s size is enormous, and it fully immerses the viewer in the scene, making him feel the full scale of the tragedy.
He also paid great attention to the details, which included the dynamic brushstrokes and the unique texture of the paint (Rainer & Macdonald, 2018). These techniques give the composition a special depth and saturation, as each element is depicted, but the lines in the picture can be called relatively smooth. The painting also features contrasting colors that further enhance the visual impact of the fresco on the viewer. Thus, these artistic techniques are intended to draw attention to the central figure and other surrounding elements.
Historical and Social Significance of the Work of Art
This fresco vividly reminds us that art directly borders on human life’s historical and social components. Cultural life usually responds to changes in these spheres and reflects the events around it. The fresco’s location in the heart of Los Angeles makes it a cultural landmark that continues to inspire art lovers. As the viewer interacts with this work of art, they can recall that art can challenge and provoke provocative thoughts, indicating the historical significance of art.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the America Tropical Mural by David Alfaro Siqueiros can be described as a fine art masterpiece whose scope extends beyond its physical dimensions. The skillful execution of this work and the theme depicted in the fresco is an acute critique of the limitations of indigenous rights and the domination of imperialism. The subject of colonization is a painful period in history that has left an indelible mark on the lives of millions of people.
The artist is not afraid to boldly declare his ideas, which is noticeable in the fresco’s general composition and the elements depicted in it. David Alfaro Siqueiros was also able to skillfully fit into the picture, such as visual elements, such as the man crucified on the cross and the surrounding characters, which are no less important for understanding the idea. Moreover, the artist used design principles, such as paint technique and scaling, to draw the viewer’s full attention to the most essential elements of the composition. Thus, the author created an unforgettable experience for the viewer that remains in the memory for a long time.
Reference
Rainer, L., & Macdonald, S. (2018). Under the Los Angeles Sun: The history and design of shelters used to protect the mural américa tropical by David Alfaro Siqueiros. Studies in Conservation, 63(sup1), 414–417. Web.