The portrait I do best is of the person I know best. Flix Nadar, French Photographer
On top of being the modern 19th-20th century Renaissance man, Nadar really took on what it means to be a true artist. In everything that he did he made it his own; innovating and transforming it to become something new, different, and exciting. If he wasnt drawing cartoons or writing novels, then he was taking photographs and inventing hot air balloons. I feel that Nadar was one of the few rare people to truly be innately inspired. Every thing he created or attempted to create was strongly influenced by his passion to just create and explore. And if there is one external influence to Nadars inspiration it would be all around good natured curiosity. Having the ability to explore, discover, create, learn, and communicate I feel inspired Flix Nadar and fueled his artistic drive.
16. Art Criticism 17. Description
Photograph (Portrait)
Sepia Tint
Female subject
Profile view
Figure/subject is wrapped in cloth
Only foreground and background
Staged background
18. Analysis
Form and lighting are the dominant qualities of this piece. Nadar was able to capture a nice range of values using minimum props. The subjects profile view and slightly off centered position gives visual unity to the piece. The wrap allows for texture along with value and you get a sense of movement as the viewer unconsciously follows the subjects eyes.
19. Interpretation
I am unclear if Nadar had any deeper meaning to this portrait besides displaying the subject as aesthetically pleasing as possible.
However I feel that Nadar was aiming to create a clear image that gave calm and serene effect when gazed at.
20. Judgment
I feel that this piece was successful because Nadar was able to portray the subject in an aesthetically pleasing manner through a carefully thought out and planned photograph.
Allowingmore than one elements and principles of art to influence his artistic decisions.
21. Questions
What is the name of the novel that has a character inspired by Nadar?
From the Earth to the Moon
From the Stars to the Moon
From the Earth to the Stars
22. Answer
a. From the Earth to the Moon
23.
What medium did Nadar prefer to work in?
Albumen print
Salt print
Both a and b
24. Answer
c. Both a and b
25.
What was the name of the balloon that Nadar built in 1863?
