Artistic Expression Research Articles

„Býti národním v umění je směšný pleonasmus. Národní je i spánek.“ K německočeské debatě nad moderním meziválečným uměním

As an art historian who has long focused on the manifestations of the visual culture of the German-speaking scene in the Czech lands, I have repeatedly encountered the topic of perceiving the “Czechness” and “worldliness” of domestic production. From my research perspective, I see two levels in this beautiful and provocative challenge. The first is the evergreen of German-Bohemian art, i.e. if we apply a national or geographical scale to the artistic expressions that emerged from the Czech lands. Today, of course, we take a geographical view, but if we look at the production of individual regions side by side, it is impossible not to see clear differences on the part of the ethnically Czech and German scenes. Capturing and defining more universally some of the subliminal specifics that are apparent at first glance is a challenge that still occupies me mentally, despite the awareness of the absurdity of searching for a national definition of art. Fixing the key features is complicated by the existence of multicultural exceptions, which often introduce an element of Judaism into the traditional dualism of the period under review. These exceptions successfully disrupt the flattened idea of parallel Czech- and German-speaking cultural and social worlds of the Czech lands. Moreover, it is precisely these exceptions that are often the bearers of tendencies towards imaginary worldliness, which brings us to the second level of this consideration – to what extent and through what phenomena the territorially and numerically relatively small art scene of the Czech lands can be perceived as world-class. The answer may be the market, or a confident search for regional authenticity. In the words of Josef Kroutvor, “minor branches of modernity.” It seems to me that in today’s global world, their offsprings are more important than many textbook examples of the avant-garde.

Investigation of Features Influencing on the Artworks of African American Female Artists Between 1960s and 2000s

The rich tapestry of cultural diversity is intricately woven by artists who have traversed various cultural landscapes, often producing distinctive artistic expressions. Among these artists, African American female painters stand out with their unmistakable styles and themes, a testament to their unique narrative. To explore the elements that shape the work of these artists in the United States, an extensive review of literature was conducted, distilling the essence of their creative output. The analysis encompasses personal and societal dimensions, unveiling a tapestry of influences including personal experiences, societal encounters, artistic styles, environmental nuances, technological advancements, sources of inspiration, and collaborative relationships. Through meticulous research and surveying, this investigation identified the paramount features that resonate most profoundly with the artistic vision of eight eminent painters. This study highlights the top three as being most influential in their creative journey. Future research endeavors should focus on conducting a more systematic case study of African American artists in order to provide a comprehensive analysis of their features. This will involve finding primary information and reference materials to make a deeper investigation into the influencing features on Africa American female artists between the 1960s and 2000s.

AI-Generated Imagery: A New Frontier for Nubian Artistic Expression

AI-Generated Imagery: A New Frontier for Nubian Artistic Expression

Research on Algorithm of Composite Material Painting Creation based on Image Processing Technology

In the study we proposed a novel approach is called a Customized Convolutional Neural Network (CCNN) to innovate in the field of art creation, particularly in composite material paintings. This research harnesses the power of image processing technology to analyze and synthesize various artistic elements, thereby facilitating the creation of composite material paintings. The core of the study revolves around the development of a unique algorithm that enables the integration of diverse materials and textures into a cohesive artistic expression. The Customized CNN is trained on a vast dataset of images, encompassing a wide spectrum of textures, colors, and patterns, representative of different materials commonly used in art. The network learns to identify and replicate the aesthetic qualities of these materials, thereby empowering artists to explore new realms of creativity. The algorithm not only recognizes the distinct characteristics of each material but also understands how to blend them effectively, maintaining artistic coherence. The results are evaluated to prove proposed performance.

Unveiling the hidden narratives: investigating gender, identity, and activism in contemporary dance performances within the realm of social arts

Objectives: This study shows how contemporary dance serves as a dynamic platform for challenging and redefining notions of gender and identity. By analyzing a variety of contemporary dance performances, the research aims to reveal the underlying narratives that reflect and contest societal norms. Through a detailed examination of choreographic choices, movement vocabulary, and thematic elements, the study highlights how these components contribute to the deconstruction of traditional gender constructs. Methods: Additionally, the research investigates the role of contemporary dance as a form of activism, focusing on how performers use their craft to entertain, raise awareness, and provoke dialogue on social issues. An artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to estimate the relationships between gender fluidity, the challenge of social norms, and their effects on transformation potential, activist participation, and artistic expression. Results: The results indicate that increases in both gender fluidity and thechallenge to social norms significantly enhance transformation potential, activist participation, and artistic expression. The accuracy of the ANN's predictions was validated through linear regression analysis, demonstrating acceptable error margins compared to experimental results. Conclusions: This study ultimately underscores the transformative power of contemporary dance in shaping social discourse and advocacy.

THE HISTORICAL BEDROCK OF HOLY QUR’AN’S MANUSCRIPT IN MALAYSIA: A STUDY ON ITS STYLE OF CALLIGRAPHY AND ILLUMINATION

The focus of this article is to examine the historical foundation of the Holy Qur’an’s manuscript in Malaysia, with specific attention to its calligraphic style and illumination. Islamic calligraphy and manuscript traditions hold significant importance within the Malaysian Muslim heritage. These traditions have been inherited and evolved over generations, with the earliest examples of Arabic calligraphy being found in the Holy Qur'an, commonly inscribed in a script known as Kufic. The historical roots of Islam are deeply intertwined with the Holy Qur'an's manuscript, making it a primary source for understanding the advent of Islam. In this research, an extensive array of resources from the Islamic Art Museum Malaysia (IAMM) and the National Library of Malaysia (NLM) were utilised, alongside personal collections and secondary sources. Data analysis involved employing philological, comparative, deductive, and inductive methodologies. Through this approach, it was revealed that the production of Malay Holy Qur'an's manuscripts has been significantly influenced by local creative input and intellectual contributions from regions such as Turkey, China, and Persia. The study particularly accentuates the diverse calligraphic and illumination techniques across different nations. Notably, manuscripts from the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, specifically from Malacca and Johor, exhibit distinct artistic qualities that set them apart from those originating from the east coast, including Kelantan and Terengganu. This underscores the prevalence of varied artistic expressions resulting from a broad spectrum of cultural interactions. The development of calligraphy and illumination methods in Malaysian Holy Qur'an's manuscripts mirrors a wide range of artistic expressions, which are shaped by both local innovation and broader Islamic intellectual traditions.

Zara removes campaign after critics call it insensitive to Israel-Hamas war

The Zara ad campaign, "The Jacket" is a case study that illustrates the complex challenges in modern marketing. Despite Zara's assertion that the campaign was conceived before the war, the public's perception of insensitivity toward the Israel-Hamas conflict led to significant consequences This incident illuminates the pivotal role of marketing managers in navigating societal complexities and anticipating diverse interpretations. It prompts reflection on the delicate equilibrium between artistic expression and societal sensibilities within marketing strategies. The Zara case underscores the necessity for astute strategic foresight and proactive measures to navigate intricate socio-political landscapes. It emphasizes the profound impact of marketing campaigns and advocates for a nuanced, inclusive approach that upholds diverse perspectives while advancing brand narratives.

Exploring the Impact of Art on Health Policy Changes

Art, in its various forms, has increasingly become a powerful tool for shaping health policy and driving social change. This review examined the multifaceted impact of artistic expression on health policy development by offering historical context, analyzing case studies, and discussing the interdisciplinary relationship between art and public health. Art’s role in influencing public sentiment, raising awareness, and inspiring policy reform is examined through visual, literary, and performing arts. Case studies demonstrate how artistic interventions have been instrumental in addressing health disparities, particularly in marginalized communities. The paper further reviews the methodologies used to evaluate art’s impact on health policy, emphasizing the need for mixed-method approaches that balance qualitative and quantitative research. Ultimately, the paper recommends future avenues for integrating art into health policy to foster community-driven innovation and more inclusive healthcare interventions. Keywords: Art and health policy, public health, social change, artistic intervention, community health, health disparities.

THE DANCE OF JUSTICE: A RAWLSIAN PERSPECTIVE IN SRIVIDYA NATARAJAN’S THE UNDOING DANCE

This article delves into the role of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, as a transformative force for Kalyani, the protagonist in the novel The Undoing Dance (2018). It investigates how Bharatanatyam serves not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a means of transcending caste boundaries and societal expectations. By applying the concept of the difference principle, a framework within socio-political theory, the study examines how caste-based discrimination is confronted and reimagined through the medium of dance. Natarajan's narrative, which alternates between past and present, underscores the significance of Bharatanatyam in conveying Kalyani’s inner turmoil, struggles, and ultimate empowerment. Kalyani’s journey is marked by her revaluation of her Devadasi roots—a lineage steeped in both cultural richness and societal stigmatisation. As she reconnects with her heritage, she gains a deeper understanding of the matriarchal traditions within her community and begins to reinterpret them through her dance. This exploration leads to a redefined sense of identity and womanhood, where Bharatanatyam becomes a vessel for Kalyani’s self-expression and liberation. This study argues that classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, provides a unique lens through which the complexities of the Indian caste system can be viewed, offering Devadasi women in South India a powerful tool for reclaiming their narratives and challenging the entrenched social hierarchies. Through dance, Kalyani not only reclaims her heritage but also transforms her pain and suffering into a powerful statement of resilience and identity.

O USO DE GEOTINTAS NA PINTURA – A EXPERIÊNCIA DO ATELIÊ TERRA & TELA

Historically, natural pigments have been central to artistic expression, from prehistoric cave paintings to techniques employed by ancient and medieval civilizations. Recently, there has been renewed interest in these materials for their unique aesthetic and eco-friendly qualities. This study investigates the use of geotints, natural pigments derived from soils and sediments, in contemporary art through the experience of Terra & Tela studio. The research focuses on the process of creating geotints from soil and sediments samples collected in Tocantins state, Brazil, a region known for its rich geodiversity. The research details the process of geotint production, from material collection to application on canvas, and discusses the artistic and environmental implications of this practice. The project integrated geotints into artistic practice through exhibitions and workshops that highlighted their unique textures and colors. Key findings show that geotints effectively merge scientific concepts with art. Workshops, where participants prepared and used these pigments, demonstrated the approach’s educational value. By linking art with science, geotints provided a hands-on understanding of soil properties and geological processes, enriching both artistic creativity and scientific literacy. This study emphasizes art’s role in bridging scientific knowledge with creative expression.

Neurosurrealism in the Service of Revolution: Aesthetic Features and Critical Potential of Neural Network Art

The rapid development of neural network technologies in recent years has given rise to the formation of many interdisciplinary research areas, including neural network aesthetics. The aesthetics of generative creativity today is studied not only in the context of the history of digital art, but also in comparison with the practices of other artistic trends and schools. Thus, the expression “neural surrealism”, which has become entrenched in popular discourse, undoubtedly refers to the aesthetics of classical surrealism, framed and fixed in Andre Breton’s program texts: neural network algorithms allow you to create images that seem both realistic and absurd due to unexpected combinations of objects, distorted proportions and presence of uncanny images. Although “neural surrealism” can be seen as a depoliticized and unbiased game of generated images in contrast to the surrealism of the 1920s and 30s, which was not merely an artistic movement but a radical social project, it appears that the very ability of neural networks to generate extraordinary and unpredictable images holds a certain critical potential. Using the methods of formal-stylistic and ideological-content analysis, the author of the article concludes that “neurosurrealism” in a sense continues the line of classical surrealism to undermine the automatism of perception and patterns of thinking. Generative algorithms become a kind of “exclusion production machines” that allow you to see reality from an unexpected angle. In addition, the very fact of using neural networks in art raises important questions about the nature of creativity, the limits of artificial intelligence and the future of man in the world of smart machines. Neurosurrealism problematizes well-established ideas about the originality and intentionality of artistic expression, which indicates the close connection of generative artistic practices with the aesthetics of classical surrealist creativity. The conducted research will be useful to specialists of a wide profile: media theorists, art historians, philosophers, cultural scientists, as well as developers and representatives of the creative industries.

The Role of Arts in Health Policy Advocacy

The paper investigates the critical role that the arts play in health policy advocacy, focusing on how artistic expression improves communication, encourages emotional engagement, and boosts public health programs. Health policy advocates can use artistic disciplines such as visual arts, theatre, and dance to engage with various audiences, highlight serious health challenges, and catalyse societal change. The arts provide a unique platform for marginalised people to express their health experiences, bridging the divide between public health data and community awareness. This paper examines successful case studies and discusses the obstacles to incorporating artists into health policy advocacy, specifically issues about tokenism and budget restrictions. Finally, this interdisciplinary approach shows how art can influence health policy and public perception. Keywords: Arts in health, Health policy advocacy, Creative expression, Public health communication, Marginalized voices.

INGLIZ VA O‘ZBEK TILLARIDA SAN’ATGA OID AFORIZMLAR TAHLILI

The main feature of aphorisms is a brief artistic expression of a wise, typical thought, in which expression, not image, is the leader of meaning. On the one hand, the article is interested in studying the syntactic features of aphorisms in speech, and on the other hand, the semantic features in the speech of English and Uzbek languages are analyzed in detail. The purpose of the research is to identify and describe the universal generalization of reality in the form of a phrase (phrase text) and the aspects and differential features of the pragmatic qualification of aphorism as a verbal means of expressing general thoughts.

Digital Artistry: Exploring Techniques and Trends in Indian Art and Culture

From prehistoric cave paintings to contemporary digital creations, art has been integral to human expression throughout history. Digital art in modern art gradually includes various forms, such as Painting, sculpture and animation, using technology as its medium. Digital art includes any artistic work using digital technology, including Painting, 3D modelling, and interactive installations. It combines human creativity with computer technology, expanding the possibilities of creative expression. Studying digital artistry in India provides insights into cultural preservation, technological innovation, and social commentary. It promotes educational development and economic opportunities, contributing to the country's vibrant artistic scene. Technological advancements have democratized digital art creation in India, leading to diverse artistic expressions. Integrating digital art with emerging technologies like AR, VR, and NFTs opens up new possibilities for artistic exploration and dissemination. Digital art techniques include digital Painting, vector art, and 3D modelling, facilitated by hardware such as graphics tablets and software such as Adobe Creative Cloud. Brushes, textures and plugins enhance the creative process, while photo manipulation and 3D sculpting provide new avenues for artistic expression. Digital artistry in India offers insights into cultural dynamism, technological innovation and artistic development. This research paper delves into the evolving landscape of digital artistry in India, exploring various techniques, trends, and the socio-cultural impact of digital art in the country.

Representation of Saudi Culture in Digital Poetry

In today's world, characterized by technology and artificial intelligence, societies have become interconnected, and the global community resembles a small village. Within this digital realm, the identities of nations and their inhabitants manifest through their expressive tools and artistic forms. The recipient perceives, through the digital space, a portrayal of these societies. In the case of Saudi society, a progressive community, its artistic and literary expressions are prominently featured on social media platforms and other online spaces, both official and unofficial. These platforms serve to depict the components and cultural backgrounds of the society, which it leans upon. The digital space becomes a canvas for its aspirations, emotions, and the diverse spectrum of its orientations and tendencies. The study tracked the most prominent transformations in Saudi culture through the digital poetic text, relying on digital poetic models through which the meeting of the past with the present was presented, and monitoring the manifestations of Saudi culture and its presence in the digital poetic text. The study concluded a number of results, the most important of which is that the Saudi poetic text presented a picture of the elements of Saudi culture, and the digital poetic models were able to show the meaning and deepen it in the mind of the recipient and evoke all those elements to embody the image of Saudi culture.

Calligraphic Semiotic Interpretation in Jewelry Design: Culture, Identity and Expression

This article places the application of calligraphy in jewelry design under the perspective of semiotic research. It is a targeted study based on whether calligraphy can be organically integrated with semiotic characteristics for jewelry design. Supplemented by qualitative analysis, based on the relationship between the form and connotation of calligraphy and the signifier and the signified in semiotics, the positive impact of the integration and mutual promotion of calligraphy semiotics and jewelry design was deeply explored. This article first introduces the principles of semiotics, cultural semiotics and the research theory of traditional Chinese cultural symbols, then explains the essential characteristics and significance of jewelry design, and then focuses on the multi-dimensional and diversified connection between calligraphy, jewelry design and semiotics. After discussion and research, we finally reflected on jewelry design and attached relevant suggestions. The perspective chosen in this article is one of the outstanding features of this study. Although calligraphy and symbols originated from different cultural backgrounds in the East and the West, they have common attributes and functions that can be learned from each other. Based on the theoretical intersection of calligraphy and semiotics, the value and application of the combination of calligraphy symbols and jewelry design are discussed, which fully illustrates the close connection between Chinese calligraphy and semiotics and jewelry design. This article attempts to start with Chinese calligraphy and use semiotic research as a guide to construct a more practical "symbol"-"calligraphy"-"culture" jewelry design model. Through theoretical framework analysis, literature review, and empirical research, this article delves into how calligraphic symbols contribute to cultural heritage conservation, personal identity expression, and artistic expression in the context of jewelry design.

Research on the thermal energy environment and process parameters of milling process in ceramic art design

In ceramic art design, milling technology is the key processing technology, which directly affects the quality and artistic expression of ceramic products. However, the thermal energy environment generated in the milling process has a significant impact on the material characteristics and machining results. This study aims to explore the influence of the thermal energy environment on the ceramic art design during the milling process, optimize the process parameters, and improve the processing efficiency and product quality. Experiments with different milling speed, feed rate and cutting depth were designed to compare and analyze the change of thermal environment by combining experiment and simulation. The influence of thermal energy on ceramic machining quality was evaluated by monitoring the temperature distribution in the cutting process with thermal imaging technology and combining with the experimental data of material properties. The experimental results show that the temperature increase in milling process is closely related to the cutting speed and feed rate, and proper control of the thermal energy environment can significantly reduce the crack generation rate and improve the surface finish of ceramic materials. The optimized process parameters make the temperature control in the milling process within the ideal range, thus realizing the processing of high quality ceramic products. Through reasonable optimization of process parameters, the heat energy in the processing process can be effectively controlled, which helps to improve the overall quality and artistic value of ceramic works.

CONCEPTUAL ROLE OF METAPHOR AS A STYLISTIC DEVICE IN CONTEMPORARY KAZAKHSTANI PAINTING

The study focuses on the significance of metaphor as a fundamental stylistic device in contemporary Kazakhstani painting, exploring its ability to convey complex cultural and symbolic meanings. The aim of the study is to analyse how metaphor contributes to a deeper understanding of cultural identity and heritage, helping to enrich contemporary artistic expression in Kazakhstan. The methodology includes a comprehensive visual analysis of selected works by contemporary Kazakhstani artists. The study relies on interdisciplinary approaches, combining art history, cultural studies, and semiotics. It investigates how metaphors are used at different levels of artistic composition - from details to the overall structure of paintings, applying both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods.The analysis shows that metaphors in contemporary Kazakhstani painting serve as an important tool for expressing cultural identity, spiritual values and continuity of ethnic heritage. The study reveals the diversity of metaphorical expressions—from traditional folklore symbols to innovative visual interpretations—reflecting the dynamic interaction between cultural heritage and modernity. The discussion emphasizes the originality of the sources and the unique approach of Kazakhstani artists who use metaphor to create powerful visual narratives that resonate with local and global audiences. The study concludes that metaphor is indispensable in Kazakhstan’s visual arts, offering a rich symbolic language linking past and present. The findings emphasize the practical significance of metaphor in strengthening cultural identity and artistic expression, suggesting further exploration of its application in broader cultural and artistic contexts. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of metaphor in contemporary art, with implications for both the academic community and practical art projects.

Crypto-aesthetics: towards a New Materialist theory of NFT art

ABSTRACT The advent of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in the art world has led to the emergence of a unique aesthetic sensibility, ‘crypto-aesthetics.’ This nascent phenomenon is marked by the amalgamation of digital and traditional art forms, the exploration of decentralisation and blockchain themes, and an emphasis on scarcity and digital ownership. This article proposes to examine the crypto-aesthetic phenomenon of NFT art through the lens of New Materialism, in particular the key concepts of two major New Materialist thinkers, namely Karen Barad and Jane Benett. Our application of New Materialism elucidates crypto-aesthetics as a distinct occurrence stemming from the interplay of object-reality, agency and networks, sociomateriality, and cultural and historical contexts. Utilising the New Materialism perspective to investigate crypto-aesthetics sheds light on the intricate relationships, processes, and consequences shaping the art market vis-à-vis NFTs and digital art. By acknowledging the agency of matter and the entwined nature of human and non-human entities, a more holistic comprehension of crypto-aesthetics’ transformative potential for artistic expression, value generation, and cultural dynamics can be attained. Our theoretical framework offers a novel lens through which to explore and understand the burgeoning world of NFT art and its crypto-aesthetic tendencies.

Introduction: Gender and (Auto)pathography from a Transnational Perspective

‘Medical Humanities’ (MH), the critical enclave of this cluster, is an interdisciplinary area of knowledge which examines human health and illness using the tools and insights of creative arts and humanities. MH endeavors to comprehend the diverse spectrum of physical and mental ailments by drawing from literature and various forms of artistic expression. The boom of MH both in the United States and Europe is manifested by the increase of this field of studies in undergraduate and graduate programs, professional training opportunities, career paths, conferences, and articles in prestigious academic journals, such as Medical Humanities, Intima: A Journal of Narrative Medicine, Journal of Medical Humanities, Literature and Medicine, or Arts and Health, among others. By consulting Scopus (http://www.scopus.com), the preeminent abstract and citation database for peer-reviewed research literature and conducting a search for 'Medical Humanities' spanning from 1970 to 2023, the findings in the 'Documents by Year' section (totaling 21,461 entries) reveal a consistent and steady upward trajectory. Commencing with a solitary document in 1971, the inaugural year recorded, the count surged to 54 in 1980, escalated to 498 in 2010, and surged to 1,581 in 2020, culminating in 2,417 entries by 2023. Furthermore, upon delving into the 'Documents by Subject Area', the analysis indicates that a significant majority of scholarly articles concerning MH originate from authors entrenched in the Health Sciences field (including Medicine, Nursing, Psychology, Neuroscience, Health professionals, Genetics), while only 15.9 percent stem from scholars within the Arts and Humanities domain. Hence, the authors of these articles, all affiliated with a research group located in Spain, envisioned the importance of enriching this field through their humanistic perspective, stemming from their roles as university professors and literature researchers.