Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Arts and Humanities

In Front of the Stalls (1868)

• Artist: Edgar Degas
• Date: 1868
• Location: Paris, France
• Patronage: No specific patron, likely sold to art dealers.

Analysis of the Artwork

Edgar Degas was a leading figure in the Impressionist movement. In Front of the Stalls is an oil painting on canvas.

Context and Subject Matter

At the time of its creation, horse racing had become a fashionable pastime among the upper class. This work reflects the modern life of bourgeois Paris, making the painting highly relevant to the elites.

The painting depicts racehorses and jockeys waiting in front of the starting stalls, just before a race begins. It captures a moment of tension, movement, and anticipation.

• It is not a dramatic scene or climax, but rather a glimpse of a scene and

Characteristics: Persuasive Genre

Direct appeal to the audience to buy the product, using indirect strategies like metaphor, humor, and language play to engage the audience.

Advertising as a Multisemiotic Genre: Stages of an Advertisement

1. Lead

Locus of attention, typically an image that draws the reader's attention.

2. Display

The product or service advertised.

Explicit

The image shows the product.

Implicit

The image shows a different entity or idea.

3. Emblem

The brand name or logo.

4. Announcement

The most salient text, usually the slogan or catchy phrase conveying the main message.

5. Enhancer

Longer text with a description of product properties, typically persuasive.

6. Call and Visit Information

Contact details such as address, phone number, or website.... Continue reading "Advertising as a Multisemiotic Genre: Strategies and Features" »

Marketing Fundamentals and Definitions

What is Market Segmentation?

It is the division of the prospective market into different groups according to age, sex, social status, buying capability, and so on.

What items make up a Company Marketing Plan?

A marketing plan typically includes:

• Product conception and development
• Promotion
• Pricing
• Packaging

When does Market Research take place?

It takes place when manufacturers need to offer customers exactly what they want.

Which are the Traditional Means of Advertising?

Traditional advertising media include:

• Newspapers
• Magazines
• Radio
• TV
• Hoardings (Billboards)
• Leaflets
• Brochures

What is the Task of Advertising?

It is to inform the public that a certain product is available and to persuade them to buy that product and not... Continue reading "Marketing, Media, and Communication History Fundamentals" »

Victorian Novel: Context and Genres

Gothic and Sensation Fiction

• Elements of mystery, horror, and transgression (e.g., Wuthering Heights, later Wilkie Collins).

Typical Representatives vs. Exceptions

• Typical: Dickens (social realism), Trollope (political and clerical life), Eliot (moral and philosophical realism).
• Exceptions: The Brontës (passionate, Gothic, symbolic), late Hardy (pessimistic, tragic).

Historical and Intellectual Background

Understand the impact of:

• Industrialization: Class tension, urban poverty.
• Utilitarianism: Focus on practical outcomes.
• Darwinism: Crisis of faith and changing views of humanity.
• Gender Roles: "The Angel in the House" ideal.
• Social Reform: Movements addressing societal issues.

Charles Dickens: Great Expectations

Bildungsroman

The Influence of Orientalism on 17th-Century European Art and Design

Understanding Orientalism

Orientalism refers to Western attitudes and representations of Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, often characterized by a romanticized and exoticized view. This portrayal emphasized the mysterious and luxurious aspects of Eastern cultures while simplifying and stereotyping their societies. Such representations were prevalent in Western art, literature, and fashion, reflecting Western fantasies more than the actual cultures.

European Trade and Cultural Exchange with Asia

European connections to Asia and the Middle East during the 17th century were facilitated by trade routes like the Silk Road and new maritime routes pioneered by explorers such as Vasco

Hello, I'm Jaime, a Product Designer.

Today, I want to share my portfolio with you, showcasing a range of projects that blend innovation with purpose.

My Creative Inspirations

My design philosophy is deeply influenced by artists who push boundaries. For instance, what I admire about the Campana Brothers is their ability to blend tradition with innovation. Their creative use of materials makes their work truly unique and impressive.

First Project: Accessibility Focus

Accessible Mobility Aid: The Ergonomic Walker

Accessibility is a cornerstone of thoughtful design. This walker was specifically created to assist elderly people with walking and resting. It features an integrated seat for comfort when tired, and its lightweight yet safe construction ensures... Continue reading "Jaime's Product Design Portfolio: Innovation, Sustainability & Impact" »

Architecture

Quattrocento Architecture (15th Century)

Architecture in the Quattrocento sought harmonious spaces based on mathematical and geometrical principles.

Key architects of this period were:

• Brunelleschi, who designed the dome of Florence Cathedral.
• Alberti, who wrote several influential books on architecture.

Cinquecento Architecture (16th Century)

The most significant architectural works were built in Rome, largely due to papal patronage. Buildings became more monumental and strictly adhered to classical architectural orders.

• Bramante designed the most important building of the century: St. Peter's Basilica, and also the Tempietto of San Pietro in Montorio, both located in the Vatican.

Painting

Quattrocento Painting (15th Century)

Painters refined... Continue reading "Renaissance Art & Architecture: 15th & 16th C." »

This Girl Can (Sport England, 2015) Campaign Analysis

Media Language

• Bright colors and dynamic movement create energy and realism. — Barthes (Semiotics): Sweat signifies effort; the body signifies confidence.
• Sport and activism genre blend is inspirational. — Neale (Genre): Combines fitness genre with social change to refresh norms.

Representation

• Real women with visible sweat portray proud, strong bodies. — Hall (Representation): Resists passive female stereotypes, creating a new identity.
• No sexualization; focus is on effort. — Mulvey (Male Gaze): Rejects objectification by showing women as active agents.

Industry

• Government-funded campaign, not for profit. — Curran & Seaton (Power & Media): Uses media to empower, not to profit.

Justin Bieber – “Intentions”: Media Language

Cinematography & Lighting

Example: Warm, soft lighting and close-up shots on the women featured (like the single mother and healthcare worker).

How it’s shown: Creates an intimate, emotional tone focusing on real people’s stories.

Theory link: Barthes’ Anchorage — visuals guide the audience to read the women as inspiring and resilient, shaping interpretation positively.

Narrative & Mise-en-scène

Example: The video follows real people overcoming adversity, highlighting kindness and community support.

How it’s shown: Scenes of Justin Bieber and Quavo helping and praising women, showing a positive social message.

Theory link: Gauntlett’s Identity Theory — promotes diverse, positive... Continue reading "Justin Bieber's "Intentions": Media Language and Representation" »