Artist Research: Summaries

---

"Guernica," Pablo Picasso - 1937.

This powerful work of art captures the devastating impact of war, in particular the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. The painting is a haunting portrayal of the suffering endured by innocent civilians, marked by distorted and anguished figures. It's a reflection on the brutality of conflict and its impact on people's lives. Picasso's use of monochromatic tones intensifies the emotional depth of the painting. "Guernica" serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring human cost of war, making it a symbol of the anti-war movement and an embodiment of the artist's commitment to social and political themes.

Picassos use of bold, undefined shapes and structures invites connection to an element of sluggish energy and twisted, tortured momentum.

"Napalm Girl" photo, captured by Nick Ut- Vietnam War, 1972.

This harrowing image portrays a group of terrified children, and focusses on a young girl named Phan Thi Kim Phuc. She is seen running, naked and severely burned, after a napalm attack on her village. This powerful photograph serves as an iconic symbol of the devastating impact of war on innocent civilians. It played a significant role in raising awareness about the human toll of the Vietnam War and the use of napalm as a weapon. This image stands as a poignant reminder of the horrors of conflict and its effect on the lives of ordinary people.

With war comes death and suffering disproportionately to poorer communities. Rarely do we capture such a powerful image from people who may not otherwise have a voice. This is one of the reasons art is integral to society and should be accessible to every individual.

"Norman Morrison" Poem, Adrian Mitchell -**

Adrian Mitchell's poem eloquently reflects on the tragic self-immolation of Norman Morrison during the Vietnam War. This poem encapsulates the emotional gravity of this protest and its enduring significance as a symbol of anti-war sentiment. His self-sacrifice stands as a poignant testament to the emotional toll of war and the lengths to which individuals were willing to go to voice their dissent.

Adrian's poem states the incident clearly and conscisely, therefore immortalising Norman Morrison's final desparate act of protest.

For the post-internet generations who are apathetic and desensitised to intense visual depictions of pain and violence, what extreme acts of protest would be shocking enough to influence major political decisions? Or even taken seriously?

“Bloodlines", by Zhang Xiaogang - 1995.

Within this series of artworks, Zhang Xiaogang skillfully captures the essence of Chinese families during the mid-20th century. Notable for their distinct red backgrounds and an intriguing sense of emotional detachment, these paintings serve as a profound reflection on the impact of history, politics, and the intricate bonds of generations in China. The faces depicted in these works transcend individuality, instead conveying a collective identity. This artistic approach encapsulates Zhang's exploration of identity and memory in the rich tapestry of China's history and culture. This image defines Zhang at the height of his career. While he explores his own history he manages to connect with the collective memory of the larger society against the socio-political environment of the era.

A bare faced look at the realities of a society in turmoil. The simplicity of the colour pallette and the familiarity with post-war family portraiture gives room for the narrative to flow freely, without explanation.