Individual Project

Contemporary Interpretation de Beaufort

re-envisioning a painting

1. IMAGE PORTION:Using an image selected from a painting in our text (pre-20th Century), or another work by an artists we have studied, please "re-enact" in either video or photography the narrative drama depicted in the painting using your friends and family as models. The goal is not to re-produce the costumes and fashions of the older painting, but to simply re-envision the story if it were set in the present time and place. Consequently, I do not want you to dress up your friends in anything other than what might be a current fashion or costume from the present day. However, it is important to match the pose and emotions of the characters as well as possible. Additionally, lighting, color, mood and setting should be carefully considered . Try to imagine how the story your painting relates might be different in today's world and change the narrative and details accordingly. Please feel free to be imaginative and creative, but within limits. Please try to chose an image with at least 2-3 people, ex. I will not accept simple portrait works like the Mona Lisa .

On a presentation board or video, present the painting that inspired you along side your version of it.

2. WRITTEN PORTION:For both images, write a short passage explaining the scene including the following. Do not cut and paste a passage from the internet, this must be in your own words!

ORIGINAL IMAGE:1. Give the artist and title of the work2. Provide the historical context for the work:

a. Indicate the geography and time periodb. Explain any art movements that it represents and how.c. Explain any biographical information about the artist if it is relevant.

3. Interpretation and meaning of the work:a. Who is depicted ?

b. What is the narrative content, what is going on ?c. Why is this a successful painting? Why did you chose it?

(10 sentences minimum)

YOUR INTERPRETATION:1. Explain your re-interpretation with regards to the characters and setting.

a. How did you update the scene?b. How has the meaning of the work changed ?c. How has the world changed since the original piece and how does your image reveal these changes? How has it stayed the same?

(6 sentences minimum)