Art Reviews
Macy’s Wonderful Winter Window Displays
By : Sakura Jung
It's the start of a cold season and the beginning of a holiday that cannot be missed for many. Christmas is just around the corner, so beware of immense Christmas shoppers!! Every year, Macy’s has window displays of colorful winter-themed decorations that show their dedication to the holiday season. Their bright lights and huge wreaths pop out at 34th St Penn Station. They have fun little activities such as repeating the color pattern and having your picture shown on the displays by pressing buttons. The window displays include a lego Lego-themed Christmas display and a Christmas tree tower but with Barbie dolls made by Toys R Us. Different color themes are also shown in other displays such as a cute pink aesthetic merry go round, and cool-toned blue disco balls surrounding a polar bear. In front of these window displays are the sight of immense crowds and people taking pictures left and right, especially at night time when the lights stand out. These displays are well thought out and bring a joyful mood towards the holiday season. Do you all know Tiptoe the reindeer? If you have watched the Macy’s parades, Tiptoe is a new character Macy made back in 2021. There are also window displays of Tiptoe grabbing everyone’s attention. Inside Macy's are more Christmas lights and there are also little squirrels on the walls, shaking their fluffy tail. The detail Macy’s puts in their decorations makes Macy’s a special place to take spectacular photos. I recommend visiting Macy’s if you are looking for a special background for the special season. On the topic of spectacular photos, here are some additional photos I took of the window decorations:
Just A Style?
By : Aisha Aldakak
MHSHS is full of undiscovered talents. Each of them has a distinct style that embodies their identity and origins. Artists are proud of their styles since they are highly important to them and appear to always represent who they are as a person. Artists select the style that best suits them, ranging from traditional to digital, cubism, abstract, etc. So let's tell one of their stories! A Junior named Jia Aka conveys, “When I was a child, every two years I would go to Bangladesh, and during my visit, my Grandpa would show me his art pieces that he drew for me throughout the years while waiting for my return”. When asked what her favorite style was Jia stated “There was a hard year when I wasn't able to go to Bangladesh and drawing became a part of me that connected me to my grandpa, sketching became my favorite style since it was my grandpa's”. Jia’s choice of expression goes much beyond merely creating aesthetically pleasing looks; instead, it focuses on advancing their personal lives and the lives of those they care about. Sophomore Yaretzi Ayala says “Art has always been one of my favorite hobbies, my personal style is a traditional art and my inspiration comes from my favorite animes and traditional Disney movies". Sophomore Vi Haung says “I love digital art and my personal style is traditional art mostly sketches” When asked what her inspiration was she stated “Many old artists”. Even though both artists practice the same style, their inspiration and the way they adapt it is extremely different. Yaretzi loves to draw animated characters, Vi loves to draw realistic art while also practicing digital art. In my opinion, art can be anything you want it to be. Thanks to the talented artists whose innovative work changed how things are usually structured, art has transformed from traditional pieces to the astounding range of styles it has now. Junior Marcus Florian says “Drawing makes me who I am” and I say Marcus’s art couldn’t be itself without Marcus. Marcus practices concept art and is inspired by many artists like Anthony Mubarge, Rebecca Sugar, Gacey Wade Becker, and many other artists whose styles inspired Marcus to have their own one-of-a-kind concept. Your style of art does not define you but rather you define it with your unique self and ideas. So is it just a style? Or is it just you?
Art Review: Art Pieces and Exhibitions That Stand Out
A Japanese Food Festival and an Elegant Performance
By: Sakura Jung
Works Cited :
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On Sunday, October 15, 2023, the Japanese International Food Festival was held in New Jersey, at Overpeck County Park. Spreading the Japanese culture, various traditional Japanese foods were sold, games such as the traditional yoyo balloon fishing game were held, and traditional and modern performances were shown. Of these performances, a Japanese classical dance was performed which I believed was quite elegant. The use of the fan in the routine was quite different from any type of dance. This unique style presents a viewpoint in Japanese culture, very different from other cultures. The Japanese classical dance, also known as “nihon buyo”, has two types of movements. One originated from mai, and the other, kabuki. One of the dance styles, Kabuki, originated when shrine maidens at shrines danced to sell charms. Kabuki was originally just dancing, but it evolved to include stories. Even though the origin was danced by all women, kabuki came to be only danced by men. Some who danced kabuki had pupils, some women, and thus various methods were born. It is also known that using the fan to cool yourself down is not permitted and is only used solely for dance purposes. Upon the black background, the crimson red kimono stood out as gentle wind drifted autumn leaves to the stage. The performer used the Hanayagi method, (which includes a more dramatic set of movements) as there are many methods, also known as “ryuha”. I have only seen performers dance to “hougaku", which is a song played by Japanese traditional instruments, but in this case, it is a more modern type of song called “enka” (Japanese traditional style ballade song). It was a new and fascinating experience to hear this type of music played along with the dancing, and I did not dislike it.
A Gleaming Summer Day in the Seaside
By: Elena Flores
Sources Cited : https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/437133
Located in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Garden at Sainte-Adresse by French painter Claude Monet is a calming work of art. The painting is based on a real-life vacation Claude Monet had in 1867, in the city of Le Havre, France. It features a sun-lit garden with a variety of lush yellow, red, and white flowers, with four chairs surrounding a bush and the turquoise sea in the background. As well as relatives of Monet. Two of the chairs are occupied by a woman in a long formal white dress as she holds an umbrella, which I presumed was to protect her from the sun; next to her is an older man with a cane and panama hat, also in formal attire. Both of them could either be looking at the man and woman in front of them, or at the sea, who knows? Behind a railing covered in abundant plants, stands a woman wearing a white dress with red designs and a yellow umbrella, as she talks to another man in a top hat; I noticed as I was writing this piece that her color scheme matched with her surroundings. The umbrella, dress, and design all went along with the different flowers in the garden. Opposite to both stand two flag poles, one (right side) I was able to easily recognize as the French Flag, the other (left side) I had never seen before. It was vertical with red on the left and yellow on the right. After some research, I discovered that it was the municipality flag of Sainte-Adresse. Finally, there is the sky and sea. In the distance, we can observe many sailboats and ships, some with steam coming out of the funnels.
When I first saw the painting in the museum, I noticed the contrast between the vibrant colors of the garden and the dull ships in the background. It reminded me of something, someplace I had seen before. It took me a second to realize why the painting seemed so familiar. Its setting was reminiscent of renowned Director Hayao Miyazaki’s 2004 animated film, Howl’s Moving Castle. Perhaps it is in the lively colors of the garden and sun, the historical clothing worn by both the people in the painting and the characters of the movie, or the hints of dullness with the ships in the background, which is a contrast that appears in the movie as it goes from light to dark as the war is depicted. For a moment it felt like every time I saw the painting all I could hear was the famous main soundtrack of the film.
I also noticed the art style, which was not overly detailed. The colors did not all blend in, but they gave the illusion of doing so. The soft strokes create a gentle art piece instead of a serious one, which would have taken away what the painting was most likely trying to capture. A moment of relaxing and carefree family interactions at the French seaside, with a beautiful landscape to accompany the setting.
Lastly, an element of the art piece which was and is very common (especially for portraits), is the fact that it was drawn from a real-life moment between Claude Monet and his family during their vacation. It is like taking a photo of a moment and capturing it forever. Immortalizing both the setting and the people, as your art lives on.
Art Review: Art Pieces and Exhibitions That Stand Out
The Brooklyn Museum: What stood out?
By: Vi Huang
When I visited The Brooklyn Museum, the first painting I saw was a large abstract piece. As I got closer, I realized there were silhouettes of people in the painting. This caused a feeling of wonder. How many people have walked by this piece without realizing what was inside? Not only did this question arise, but another one surfaced: What is considered art in my mind? Would textiles, statues, or music count as art?
“Textile Hanging Depicting Romantic Themes” made in Southern India during the late 17th to early 18th century was the textile that stood out to me. This piece was a mix of a grayish yellow and some red. It was quite large. Not only was it gorgeous but it also told stories of romance. The scene itself was set with flowering trees under a tent. So for these reasons, I was drawn to it.
“Sunset in Autumn Woods” was breathtaking. Stained-glass windows that felt like a step back in time, to an old church. After all, it was made in 1905 for the Universalist Church of Our Father and bought by All Souls Universalist Church. It is a colorful piece that most people only ever see on television. It caused a sense of yearning—a yearning to create a masterpiece like this one.
Last but not least, music. As I wandered through the museum, I heard a beautiful symphony. Although I did not know the piece being played, I did some digging and found out the group playing was called the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble of string instruments. The songs they played conveyed an intense but in-sync and classical style.
In conclusion, my thoughts about this is that anything can be considered art if it is creative enough. Every art piece can be interpreted differently depending on the person.
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What art have I seen over the month in MHSHS?
By: Vi Huang
Over the past month, many pieces of artwork in the art hallway have piqued my interest. The prompt, issues in the world you are concerned with, are what the hardworking NYCARTS students are answering. Each student was distinctive in their own way; many pondered about war and culture, some about their internal challenges, and others thought about the effect of humans or perhaps even philosophy. Most students worked with acrylic paint, but others took a different approach. Ranging from the use of watercolor to acrylic paint and hot glue, here are some that stood out.
First is Kalden Lama’s art project, depicting gay marriage and the stigma around it. At first, it seems like a normal ceremony, but as you look closer you may notice a few details. The officiant was not present, and the pews were empty. Gay marriage is so stigmatized, and this piece shows the beauty and pain of how this affects the people who face the consequences of these stereotypes. My interpretation of this piece is that love is love.
Next is Vincent Hua’s art project, depicting an astronaut. The head is just a puddle of space. An anonymous peer states, “Just because he is in an astronaut suit does not mean that he is invincible- his head is decapitated and is spilling space. I feel that it depicts pride and persistence.” It seems to be a thought-provoking piece as some of my friends from another school believe it depicts dreams, as the head of the astronaut is a puddle of space. This is what stood out to me most; the many interpretations of his artwork.
Last but not least, Aisha Aldakak’s art project. It depicts a nursery where there are babies. These babies are either angels or devils. It begs the question of nature versus nurture. Are you born evil, or are you raised evil? Katelyn, my peer from another school, believes that people are born inherently evil but their character depends on how much of this “evilness” you can suppress. In contrast to Katelyn’s belief, I believe babies are born on a spectrum of evil. But I also believe that you can change their nature with how you raise them, therefore nurture still plays a role.
Overall, the NYCARTS hallway showed a lot of the worldly views that the artists have and their perspective on societal problems.
Hearts, Hearts, and more Hearts?
Written by Sakura Jung
It’s February and although there was Groundhog Day on February 2nd, Valentine's Day is what comes to mind for most people. Some may decide to spend time with their loved ones or treat themselves with chocolate. Others may decide to make their heart-shaped sweets or even make cards. Those who have received candy grams got specifically themed cards along with a short letter and some candy. Of course, if we all haven’t noticed, Valentine's Day is filled with hearts, flowers, and other symbols associated with love and affection everywhere you look. Hearts are used everywhere, not just on Valentine’s Day, but daily uses in emojis, drawings, food, etc. There are plenty of DIY Valentine’s ideas, though it might not turn out as you expected, but it’s the thought that matters…right? We should appreciate DIY crafts more, and therefore here are some easy DIY ideas you can use even outside of Valentine’s Day.
Heart-shaped Cookies or Treats: Decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter for a sweet and festive touch.
Heart-shaped Photo Collage: Arrange printed photos in the shape of a heart on a canvas or poster board. Black and white photos give it a great vibe.
Heart-shaped Wall Art: Create heart-shaped wall art using various materials such as paper or fabric. You can paint or decorate the hearts with patterns or even write quotes.
Heart-themed Jewelry: Use heart-themed beads to make bracelets or necklaces.
Heart-themed Origami: Search for tutorials on how to make origami hearts or something that may include hearts such as heart bookmarks. They are simple yet aesthetically pleasing!
Heart-themed String Art: Use some yarn and a needle to sew into a piece of paper or fabric to create the shape of a heart.
NYC ARTS PROJECTS!
Vi Huang
As you might have heard, the NYC ARTS students have started a new project. This project requires students to make installation art that presents meaning to the entire student body and evokes deeper thinking. Per this, I went ahead and interviewed two students about their projects, and here's what they said: Jay was the first student I decided to interview. They and their teammates decided to test people in 5th-period computer science class. As quoted, “We made the students take a fake exam and put morality questions throughout.” The test papers were turned into paper spiders and will be placed on a spider web with a heart in the center. It is done over the span of two and a half weeks. Group members include Jay Rubin, Kiran Srikant, and Mahalil Hayat. Afsara was the second person I decided to interview. She decided to install a piece to spread awareness about animals that are endangered due to pollution and climate change. As quoted, “The reason it's happening is because of people who are money hungry. They could easily help stop this, but they just don't care about money anymore. So I wanted to focus on how capitalism is causing so many of these animals to slowly go extinct.” She printed money and made silhouettes of endangered animals. The hard part was having to cut up the money printouts and them so they fit the stencils, and also having to fill an entire wall with them. It is done over the span of one to two weeks. Her teammate is Jayden. And lastly, I wanted to touch on my project. Kalden, Yaretzi, and I decided to create posters to hang up above door frames as well as stickers that would be in boxes on the side. The idea was to jump and stick a sticker onto the poster which would have a yes or no question. We made the questions so they would provoke a discussion or thought process. The most challenging part was ensuring that the poster paper did not tear, and the sticker-making was time-consuming. It is done within the span of two to three weeks.
What is NYC Arts up to?
Written by Sakura Jung
Walking through the school, haven’t we noticed those hopscotches in front of classroom doors or posters on the door wall full of stickers? Or maybe you’ve seen a Pokemon on the ceiling. Those are just a few interactive art pieces presented in the hallways created by NYC art students! Interactive art is always fun, allowing the audience to participate in an activity that could brighten their day. The Pokemon Rayquaza model made from cardboard was hung in Mr. Kozak’s hallway. For the posters on top of the doors, we could jump and place a yes-or-no sticker with drawings on them. A mirror is hung by Mr. Heinrichs’ classroom, which has an activity to write what you think identity is on an index card. There are also posters around the school with motivational quotes written on them. In addition, a large world map was hung and had an activity where you put red pins on where you are from and blue pins on where you want to go. There is also a basketball hoop in the 60’s hallway where you can shoot mini basketballs, though it has sadly been broken. The hopscotch in front of classroom doors is a fun way to go in or out of the classroom. Childhood drawings covering the wall showed a question about what your favorite childhood memory is. Normally, an art piece is created by the artist expressing themselves, but with these interactive activities, the audience can also express themselves. I enjoyed the posters where you could place stickers, but of course, all the art pieces deserve praise, and others may have different opinions on their favorite art piece. There are many more art pieces that I have yet to mention, but looking for art pieces is always fun too, which also brings to mind the scavenger hunt! NYC Arts also made a scavenger hunt to find candy in some classrooms. Did you all enjoy it? Thank you, NYC Arts!