DSST Exam Outline
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Table of Contents
1. Ancient World
Ancient Near East
The Archaic style exhibited a notable shift towards naturalism, heavily influenced by the Near East and Egyptian art.
Egypt
Egyptian art conveyed a rich array of symbolism, depicting everything from the elaborate regalia of pharaohs to the symbolic representations of Egyptian deities.
Greece
Greek art underwent a transformation influenced by Oriental Motifs, leading to a distinct evolution in their artistic expression.
Rome
Portraiture became a focal point of Roman art, with a keen interest in creating lifelike statues, particularly of renowned individuals.
DSST Art of the Western World Trivia Question # 258
2. Artistic Movements of the Early Middle Ages
Early Middle Ages
This era encompasses the period from the decline of the Roman Empire around 300 AD to the onset of the Renaissance in 1400 AD.
Romanesque and Gothic Art
These styles are collectively referred to as medieval art, representing the artistic expressions of the Middle Ages.
Gothic Art
The Gothic style emerged in the mid-12th century and derived its name from the Goths, who ruled over France during this period.
3. Renaissance: Artistic Trends in the 15th and 16th Centuries
15th Century Italy
Artists of this period began depicting the real world with increasing naturalism, drawing inspiration from classical antiquity as their primary models.
15th Century Northern Europe
Humanism exerted significant influence, providing the philosophical foundation for scientific, music, and art advancements.
16th Century Italy
Mythological themes and historical events took center stage in art, reflecting a fascination with narrative storytelling and classical motifs.
16th Century Northern Europe
Artistic focus shifted towards genres such as landscape painting, reflecting a broader exploration of everyday life and natural surroundings.
4. Artistic Themes Across Europe: Catholicism and Secularism
Italy, France & Spain
Artistic expression in these regions during this period often reaffirmed the Catholic faith's emotional depths while glorifying the power and influence of the church and monarchy.
Holland & Flanders
In contrast, the artistic style of Holland and Flanders was marked by a focus on secular genres, including still life, genre paintings depicting everyday scenes, and landscape painting.
5. Rococo and Neoclassicism: Artistic Trends from 1760 to 1850
Rococo
It emerged as a decorative art style characterized by its fanciful and light-hearted nature, often emphasizing ornate designs and playful motifs.
Neoclassicism
In contrast, Neoclassicism took a more severe and gallant approach, finding prominence in art and architecture and emphasizing classical forms and principles.
DSST Art of the Western World Trivia Question # 525
6. Romanticism and Realism
Realism
It is rooted in portraying the actual and naturalistic depiction of subjects, often guided by scientific principles and laws.
Romanticism
The movement transcends the actual and seeks the Absolute and the Ideal, often exploring emotions, imagination, and the mystical.
7. Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
Late 19th Century Art in France
During the late 19th century in France, there was a notable preference among artists for depicting landscapes and scenes of contemporary life, shifting away from the traditional focus on historical, mythological, or classical narratives in earlier art periods.
DSST Art of the Western World Trivia Question # 644
8. Early Twentieth Century
Modern Art
This movement boldly rejected and challenged traditional artistic styles, embracing innovation, experimentation, and breaking conventional boundaries.
9. Postwar to Postmodern
Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art
During this period, there was a questioning of the underlying philosophy of modernism, leading to diverse artistic movements and approaches.
10. Contemporary
Contemporary Art
Often referred to as modern art, contemporary art encompasses artworks created during the present period, reflecting today's artists' diverse perspectives and practices.
11. Conclusion
DSST Art of the Western World
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