TASK 2 (Visual Analysis & Ideation)

17 February 2025 - 3 March 2025 // Week 3 - Week 5

Racheal Tan Tze Rou // 0381005

Design Principles // Bachelor of Design (Hons) // Creative Media 

TASK 2 (Exploration)

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INSTRUCTIONS

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Task 2 (Visual Analysis & Ideation)

Visual Analysis

Title: Happily Ever After
Artist: Marc Dennis
Year: 2024
Size: 70.5 x 57.25 inches
Medium: Oil on linen

Source: https://www.thisiscolossal.com/2025/02/marc-dennis-still-life/

Phase 1: Observation

This artwork is in portrait format, and its oil painting on linen. The artwork is filled with vibrant flowers, fresh fruit, and bees, all arranged in a traditional composition. Then, there are iridescent soap bubbles floating among these natural elements, creating a dreamlike mood to the painting. As for visual elements, the background is a rich, warm brown, contrasting with the bright colors of the flowers and the glossy surfaces of the bubbles. The painting is full of textures, from the soft petals of the flowers to the reflective surfaces of the bubbles and the fuzzy bodies of the bees.(96 words)

Phase 2: Analysis

This painting makes effective use of contrast, with the bright colors standing out against the darker background. The reflective bubbles create a sense of movement, making the painting feel dynamic rather than static. The composition is balanced, with the flowers creating a strong focal point in the center, while the bubbles and bees add layers of depth. The detailed rendering of each element follows the principles of repetition and unity, ensuring that the painting feels coherent despite the addition of surreal elements. The bees which appear in different positions guide the viewer's eye across the painting. This enhances the visual flow.(101 words)

Phase 3: Interpretation

This painting blends between realism and surrealism. The detailed rendering of flowers, fruit, and bees reflects the precision of classical realism, while the iridescent soap bubbles introduce a dreamlike quality. The inclusion of these bubbles adds a sense of movement, contrasting with the more permanent elements of nature. The still-life arrangement of flowers and fruit is reminiscent of traditional Dutch vanitas paintings, which symbolized the transient nature of life. (69 words)

Example of traditional Dutch vanitas paintings: 

Title: Vanitas—Still Life with Bouquet and Skull

Artist: Adriaen van Utrecht

Year: circa 1642

Source: Wikimedia Commons

This interplay between realism and fantasy enhances the painting’s depth and intrigue. Additionally, the presence of bees, which are essential to nature’s cycle, reinforces themes of life, growth, and fleeting beauty. The painting’s highly detailed and decorative approach mirrors the richness found in historical still-life traditions, yet its surreal aspects push it beyond conventional boundaries, making it a celebration of both nature’s artistry and the transient moments within it.(69 words)

Ideation

IDEA #1

Description: Increase the contrast by deepening the shadows behind the flower arrangement. This would make the vibrant colors pop even more, adding depth and dimension. Stronger contrast would enhance the illusion of space and make the elements appear more three-dimensional and lifelike. It would also guide the viewer’s eye more effectively across the composition.

IDEA #2

Description: Decrease the number of bubbles, keeping only a few strategically placed ones to maintain the dreamy atmosphere without overwhelming the composition. Reducing the bubbles will help direct the viewer's attention to the more important elements, like the bees and flowers. It enhances emphasis and balance, ensuring that the surreal touch remains without distracting from the main focal points. This also creates a cleaner, more organized visual flow, making the composition easier to navigate.

IDEA #3

Description: Apply a subtle vignette effect by darkening the edges of the painting to draw more attention to the central area where the flowers and bees are clustered. This would create a natural frame, guiding the viewer’s gaze towards the most important elements. It enhances emphasis and helps the vibrant colors in the focal area stand out more, adding depth and drama to the composition without altering the original design too much

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REFLECTION

Working on Task 2 was an insightful experience that deepened my understanding of design principles and their application in real-world artwork. Analyzing the artwork that I chose allowed me to explore how elements like contrast, movement, and emphasis contribute to a visually compelling composition. Additionally, sketching ideas for improvement helped me think critically about how small adjustments can enhance an artwork’s impact.

One of the most striking aspects of the painting was its balance between realism and surrealism. The vibrant flowers and detailed bees felt lifelike, while the reflective soap bubbles introduced a dreamlike quality. I noticed how the artist used strong color contrast to make elements stand out and guide the viewer’s eye. Another key observation was the sense of movement created by the floating bubbles and the dynamic positioning of the bees. These details made the artwork feel alive and engaging.

Through this analysis, I learned how different design principles work together to create harmony in an artwork. The use of contrast, repetition, and focal points plays a crucial role in directing attention and storytelling. I also realized that reducing unnecessary elements, such as minimizing the number of bubbles could help strengthen the emphasis on the main subjects. This task reinforced the importance of thoughtful composition and how even the smallest changes can shift an artwork’s visual impact.