When I first saw Picasso’s painting Guernica, I had absolutely no idea what to think. But, after learning the history of Picasso’s life and the history of the city of Guernica, it made much more sense. I think it is important to not only analyze the certain aspects of the painting as we did in class, but also to learn about the history behind the painting. As I know virtually nothing about Spanish culture, I had no idea that Guernica means war in Spanish. Even studying a little bit of background information helped me to understand Picasso’s intentions as he was creating this mural. Also, I never knew that the bull and horse were two very predominant symbols in the Spanish world. Learning the history of the country enhanced my understanding of the painting so much more. One aspect of the painting that I really found compelling was the eye or sun in the top, center of the mural. I find it compelling because there is no real answer to what it is. It could be any number of things. It could symbolize someone shedding light on the current war in Guernica, or it could symbolize someone looking in or spying on what is going on in the room. I find it so intriguing that art can be viewed in many different ways without having a right or wrong answer.
Blog #1
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