Interpretation of the Image - Introduction to Iconological Methods
[ARKE1235]
[22.5h] 3 credits
This course is taught in the 1st semester.
Teacher(s): Eric De Waele, Pauline Voute
Language: French
Level: First
Aims
- use the main tools of bibliographic reference, iconographic classification and electronic referencing
- analyse the message behind the composition and the relation between the forms (syntax) and the colours and materials selected by the artist
- operationalise the notion of the function of an image
- recognise the characters and the scenes portrayed in the iconographic collections of Greek and Roman mythology and the Bible.
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
-The language of images: *Lexical and denotative conventions, iconic elements, gestures, signifying roots and shapes. Introduction to the main iconographic lexikons and dictionaries and how to use them. *Syntax and connotation ; semantic range and iconic "synonyms"; the problem of iconic homonyms and of identification. -Signifying conventions pertaining to iconic language : colours, lights, composition, axes -The image, its material support and technique, and the comprehensive reading of their functions and shapes. *The relation between the image and the viewer :perspectival and spatial conceptions; viewing angle and framing. -Great repertories :*the defensive image; *the beneficial image. *Old Testament, New Testament, saints and main allegories. -The iconographical Typology. -Functional context : an introduction to the main "decorative programmes" in profane and religious contexts.
2/ Lectures by Prof. E.De Waele (7,5h) : - Work of analysis of an art work, whatever the period, but the subject of which relates to the classic mythology. Three levels of analysis : description, iconography and iconology. The identification and interpretation process will be necessarily based on the antique source texts. Individualized correction of a first version of the work. The methodology of the work will be explained during the lesson on the basis of chosen applications, useful bibliographical tools, etc.
Method :
Lectures illustrated by projections. Commented visits to exhibitions and thematic collections.
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)