Cubism

Cubism can be split into two phases: Analytic and Synthetic. The Analytic phase was between 1907 and 1912. The Synthetic phase was from 1913 through the 1920’s.  The Term “synthetic” refers to a process of building up a composition through the arrangement of freely invented forms; whereas, “analytic” refers to the breaking down of forms into their component parts.

In the Analytic phase, the cubist palette was very limited using black, browns, greys, and off-whites. Additionally, shapes were very geometric and fragmented, being put together from different viewpoints at the same time therefore creating an angular and distorted image. Analytic cubism was thought to be a criticism of traditional art, which limited the subject to a single place and time.

Marcel Duchamp (1887-1968)

One of his most famous works, “Nude Descending a Staircase, No.2” was created in 1912 using oil on canvas. This work was said to be scandalous “since nudes do not look like that”. This was the start of Duchamp’s analytical cubist work; however in 1913 Duchamp withdrew from painting circles due to being disillusioned by the Art Establishment.

At a first glance, I thought this painting was of a brush as the portrayal of movement in the lower legs looks like bristles and the solid effect of the repeated upper legs gives a suggestion of the body and handle of the brush.

 Juan Gris (1887-1927)

Gris was often referred to as the third cubist with Picasso and Braque being the first and second, however of the three he was the most dedicated to the style. His work “Bottles and Knife” was created in 1912 using oil on canvas and is a good example of analytical cubism using limited colours.

I like this image as the black creates a distinct shadow and therefore a realistic 3D effect. The angular lines throughout the image add an element of uncertainty while also creating an idea of depth providing the 3D effect.

 

In the Synthetic phase of cubism, paintings were composed of fewer and simpler forms. Brighter colours were used to a generally more decorative effect and many artists continued to use collage in their compositions.

Picasso (1881-1973)

This work is the last and most elaborate in the series of paintings he did based on his vast mural “Guernica” which portrays the bombing of the Basque town of Guernica. He created “The Weeping Woman” in 1937 using oil on canvas. The woman’s features are based on Picasso’s lover Dora Maar. The colour used in this work is a good example of synthetic cubism.

This image portrays a woman who is literally broken up with grief. This gives the appearance of the subject being disjointed and broken up and to the unsuspecting eye, the “Weeping Woman” (amongst other cubist works), would be quite harsh and shocking. He chose this subject matter to show that emotion and human nature is fragile. The image is constructed like panes of glass where the slightest knock could shatter the person.

 

Georges Braque (1882-1963)

 “The Viaduct at L’Estaque” was created in 1908 using oil on canvas and shows the gradual development of Braque’s independent artistic style before his meeting and joining forces with Picasso, demonstrating his crucial role in the birth of cubism. In this work Braque combines Cézannesque geometrically defined shapes and multiple angles of perspective with examples of his earlier, decorative Fauve style.

I like the brushstrokes in the trees and sky as it adds texture and creates an almost stormy atmosphere.  I think that the arches and shadows in the viaduct create a feeling of depth within the image. I also like the way that the different shades and tones of orange create a sense of warmth within the image.