The museum that attracted my particular attention is The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City (Google Arts and Culture, n.d.). The three pieces of art that I like and chose for the analysis are “Study of a Young Woman,”
“Study of a Young Woman” may be called “Girl with a Veil” or “Portrait of a Young Woman” as well, is a painting created by Johannes Vermeer, a prominent Dutch artist, in the period between 1665 and 1667. In a painting, a young woman is depicted, her face and clothes are the main elements of the composition. As a matter of fact, both in the 17th century and in the present day, this portrait has been valued for the demonstration of the author’s exceptional artistic skills in the expression of emotions, personality, and details.
As a matter of fact, people’s culture has a highly substantial impact on their interpretation of art. That is why it is interesting for me how my perception of this painting in the 21st century differs from the view of any person who lived the second part of the 17th century. When I look at this work of art I every time feel embarrassed and mesmerized at the same time by how the lady looks alive. I constantly wait for her to move, blink, or smile the next moment. Although the beauty of any person is perceived individually, the character’s look cannot be defined as trendy. At the same time, in Europe, a high forehead and the absence of brows were regarded as the standards of beauty in the 17th century. In addition, age may be interpreted in completely different ways according to the person’s culture. In 1665, the lady from the painting could be regarded as a bride or even mother, however, I see an adorable girl who looks straight to me with a curiosity of a child.
Another example of different interpretations on the basis of culture may be provided by “Eagle Head, Manchester, Massachusetts (High Tide)” created by an American artist Winslow Homer in 1870. When I looked at this work for the first time, I could not understand its meaning. I had an impression that these women came out of the water after their boat turned upside-down and sank. However, they look absolutely calm after wreckage, and this emotion may be easily perceived in the painting. In addition, from a personal perspective, there is an atmosphere of uncertainty, melancholy, and even depression. As immeasurably surprised when found out that these women are bathers and they are regarded as beautiful and fashionable at that time. My interpretation was determined by the fact that women currently do not swim in clothes and shoes.
Finally, another example of interpretation is “Venus and Adonis” (1555-1560) by Titian. As a goddess of beauty and love, Venus is supposed to be the most beautiful woman. However, in this painting, according to my personal and cultural beliefs, I did not find Venus attractive. At the same time, in the 16th century, this type of women’s figure was regarded as ideal. In modern western culture, slim figures are generally regarded as perfect. However, I do not deny that all types of body subsequently will be accepted due to body-positive. In general, the atmosphere of this painting is tranquil, light, and comforting.
Reference
Google Arts and Culture. (n.d.). The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Web.