Understanding Subject Matter in Art
What’s the painting about? That’s its subject matter. Subject matter is the central idea or theme in a work of art. It’s what the artist is trying to communicate, and it’s what engages the viewer. Subject matter can be drawn from anywhere: personal experiences, historical events, social issues… the possibilities are endless.
Understanding the subject matter is key to appreciating art on a deeper level. It allows us to connect with the artist’s intent and understand their message. The subject matter is crucial for self-expression, but it can also provide historical or cultural context and even offer social commentary.
In this article, we’ll explore the definition of art subject matter, its various forms, and its importance. We’ll also examine how subject matter relates to artistic expression and interpretation, including the influence of culture, technology, and personal perspective.
What is subject matter in art?
Subject matter is what the artwork is about. It’s the story or the idea the artist is trying to get across.
Subject matter is the theme that guides the artwork, influencing how we understand it and how we react to it.
It’s important to distinguish subject matter from content. Subject matter is what you see, while content is the deeper meaning or message that the artist is trying to convey. Think of it this way: the subject matter is what’s literally depicted, while the content is your interpretation of what it all means. For instance, a portrait (subject matter) might be a statement about power or vulnerability (content).
Concrete vs. abstract subject matter
Some art has a clear, easily identifiable subject matter, such as a person, a landscape, or an arrangement of objects. These are examples of concrete subject matter.
However, some art expresses something less tangible, like an emotion, a philosophy, or a concept. This kind of art uses shapes, colors, and compositions to express an abstract subject matter.
Types of subject matter in art
Artists can choose from a wide range of subject matter when creating their work. Here are a few of the most common.
Representational subject matter
Representational art depicts recognizable objects or people.
- Portraits. Portraits capture people. The artist’s view of humanity, their emotions, and their connections to others are all reflected in a portrait, which can express status, personality, or inner feelings.
- Landscapes. Landscapes depict natural scenery, reflecting the artist’s emotional state and appreciation of nature. Landscapes can also carry historical or cultural significance.
- Still life. Still life paintings and other artworks depict inanimate objects, showing an appreciation for detail, societal values, or even feelings of stagnation. A still life can symbolize mortality, wealth, or everyday life.
- Historical or mythological scenes. Artists sometimes depict significant events or stories from the past, providing insights into their values and the societal context in which they created the art.
Non-representational subject matter
Non-representational art doesn’t depict recognizable objects. Instead, the artist focuses on elements like form, color, and composition.
- Abstract art. Rather than showing recognizable objects, abstract art expresses emotions, ideas, or spiritual concepts.
- Symbolic art. Symbolic art uses symbols to represent ideas or concepts, often requiring a knowledge of a specific symbol system to understand the meaning.
Other subject matter
Artists also draw inspiration from a variety of other subjects.
- Genre scenes. Genre scenes depict everyday life and ordinary people, capturing the customs, values, and activities of a particular time and place.
- Political/social commentary. Some art addresses social issues, injustices, or political events, aiming to raise awareness, provoke thought, or inspire action.
The artist’s perspective and cultural influence
The subject of a work of art is often a reflection of the artist who created it and the culture that shaped them.
Subject matter as a reflection of the artist
The subject matter an artist chooses can reveal a lot about their vision, beliefs, and experiences. Artists often draw from their own lives and perspectives, and their emotional state can affect how they portray the world.
For example, landscapes can reflect the artist’s emotional state and their appreciation of nature. Abstract art can convey emotions and feelings through color and form.
Cultural narratives and globalization
Art is a universal language that can convey cultural narratives and traditions. Depictions of historical and cultural events can provide insights into the artist’s values and the societal context in which they lived.
Globalization has broadened the horizons of subject matter, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Artists are increasingly inspired by diverse cultures and global issues, leading to a richer and more complex artistic landscape.
Subjectivity in interpretation
The interpretation of subject matter in art is often subjective and depends on individual experiences and the context in which the artwork is viewed. Personal experiences shape how viewers understand and relate to the artwork.
When analyzing subject matter in art, it’s important to consider the historical and social context in which the artwork was created. Understanding the social and political climate can provide valuable insights into the artist’s intentions and the meaning of the work.
Art subject matter in the digital age
Just as the invention of photography changed the subject matter of painting in the 19th century, the rise of digital technology has spurred new approaches to art in our own time.
Technology’s impact
New themes and mediums are on the rise as the digital age progresses. Digital art, virtual reality, and augmented reality are becoming more common, and artists are exploring themes like cybernetics and digital culture. At the same time, environmental concerns are increasingly showing up in contemporary art, and works depicting melting ice caps, oil spills, and smog-covered cities are more common than ever.
Contemporary artists and social issues
Today’s artists often tackle social issues, technological advances, and cultural identity in their work, using art as a tool for raising awareness and inspiring change.
Key Takeaways
The subject matter of a work of art is its foundation. It’s the first thing that connects the artist to the audience. It reflects the artist’s point of view, their place in the world, and the social and political issues of their time.
But the subject matter of art never stands still. New technology, globalization, and shifting cultural values are always changing what artists focus on. Contemporary artists are constantly pushing the boundaries and exploring new ideas.
When you take the time to understand the subject matter of a painting, sculpture, photograph, or other work of art, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the art itself and the message the artist is trying to share.