The Technique of Framing - 2.9.3.3 | Unit 2: The Art of Observation – Perception, Space, and Realism | IB MYP Grade 9 Visual Arts
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2.9.3.3 - The Technique of Framing

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Interactive Audio Lesson

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Introduction to Framing

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Today, we are going to talk about the technique of framing in visual arts. Framing refers to the use of various elements within an artwork to create a border around the main subject. Why do you think this technique is important?

Student 1
Student 1

I think it's important because it helps focus on what's most important in the artwork.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! It draws our eyes to the focal point. Can anyone give examples of what kind of elements might be used to frame a subject?

Student 2
Student 2

Maybe windows, trees, or even other objects in the composition?

Teacher
Teacher

Yes! Those natural elements help create a sense of depth. Let's remember: Fluid frames = Focused views! That's a mnemonic to keep in mind.

Student 3
Student 3

That sounds helpful!

Teacher
Teacher

Great! Framing also enriches the context of the artwork. It tells a story. Let’s move to a practical example.

Framing Techniques in Different Art Periods

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Teacher
Teacher

Framing techniques have evolved over different art movements. Can anyone name an art period where framing played a significant role?

Student 4
Student 4

The Renaissance! Artists like Leonardo da Vinci used framing!

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely! Renaissance artists often used architectural elements to frame their subjects beautifully. Remember: R.A.F. - Renaissance Architects Frame!

Student 1
Student 1

So, framing is also about how subjects connect with their surroundings?

Teacher
Teacher

Precisely! Framing offers both focus and context, creating a visual narrative. Can you think of contemporary art that uses this technique.

Student 2
Student 2

Maybe some modern photographers use archways or trees to frame their shots!

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! As we see, framing is still relevant today. Let’s summarize: Framing transforms space into story and focus!

Practical Application of Framing Techniques

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Now that we understand the theoretical part, let's practice! How can you apply framing in your observational drawings?

Student 3
Student 3

I could use branches of a tree to frame a scene.

Teacher
Teacher

Great idea! And remember, you can also use leading lines or create natural frames within your composition. What do you think will be the effect?

Student 4
Student 4

It will make the viewer notice the main subject more.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Framing guides viewers, enhancing their journey through your artwork. Let’s repeat: Framing = Guiding Views!

Student 1
Student 1

This will definitely help in my drawing assignment!

Teacher
Teacher

Fantastic! Remember to document your process as well. In your observations, engaging with framing will enrich your work!

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

The technique of framing encompasses the use of elements within an artwork to draw attention to the main subject while adding depth and contextual richness.

Standard

Framing is a technique in visual arts where artists utilize elements such as doorways, windows, and surrounding objects to frame the primary subject. This not only highlights the subject but also creates a sense of depth in the composition. By effectively employing framing techniques, artists can enhance the viewer's engagement and emotional response.

Detailed

The Technique of Framing

The technique of framing involves using elements within the artwork itself, such as doorways, tree branches, windows, or even other objects, to create a visual border around the main subject. This method draws the viewer's attention to the focal point of the art piece and enhances the overall depth and contextual richness of the composition.

Key Points

  • Visual Focus: Framing directs the viewer's gaze to particular areas of the artwork, promoting focus on essential elements.
  • Depth Creation: By incorporating framing elements, artists can simulate a three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface, establishing a sense of layering and context.
  • Contextual Enrichment: The surrounding elements often serve to provide context for the main subject, helping to narrate a story or convey a message.
  • Techniques in Practice: Artists from different periods have utilized the technique of framing in various innovative ways, adapting it to their stylistic needs and narrative goals.

In summary, the technique of framing not only beautifies an artwork but also enhances its narrative, depth, and viewer engagement.

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Understanding the Technique of Framing

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Utilizing elements within the artwork itself (such as doorways, tree branches, or windows) to frame the main subject, thereby drawing attention to it and adding a sense of depth and contextual richness.

Detailed Explanation

Framing in art refers to the practice of using elements already present in the scene to create a 'frame' around the subject of focus. This technique helps to direct the viewer's attention where the artist intends. For instance, if a painter depicts a landscape with a tree branch arching over the top of the painting, that branch acts as a frame that leads the viewer's eye into the scene. This not only highlights the main subject but also gives the artwork a sense of depth, making it feel like we are looking through the branch into the wider world beyond.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine you're looking at a beautiful sunset through an open window. The window frame borders your view, drawing your eyes to the sky's colors beyond. This is similar to how an artist might use a doorway in a painting - it 'frames' the view, making the sunset feel more immersive. Just as a real window can enhance your experience of the sunset, framing in art enhances how we perceive the subjects within.

The Impact of Framing on Composition

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Integration into Observational Work: Students will consciously incorporate these compositional principles into their observational drawings to create more impactful and aesthetically pleasing representations of their observed subjects.

Detailed Explanation

Framing is a critical compositional principle that artists should practice in their observational drawings. By consciously including framing elements in their work, artists can enhance the viewer's experience and the overall impact of their art. For example, in a drawing of a person sitting in a chair, placing the chair within an archway can create a more compelling image. It makes the viewer feel as though they are peeking into a scene rather than just looking at a flat representation. This technique allows for a layered depth that can make the artwork richer and more interesting.

Examples & Analogies

Think about taking a photograph of your friend at a party. If you stand in front of a doorway and frame them within the door, it automatically catches the eye more than just a straight shot. When students apply this concept to their observational drawings, they can create scenes that engage viewers similarly, pulling them into the drawing and making them feel part of the moment.

Definitions & Key Concepts

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Key Concepts

  • Framing: The technique of using elements within an artwork to focus the viewer's attention on the main subject.

  • Visual Depth: The illusion of three-dimensionality in two-dimensional works achieved through techniques like framing.

  • Contextual Elements: Surrounding objects or spaces that contribute to the meaning and understanding of the main subject.

  • Narrative Engagement: The way framing helps to tell a story within an artwork.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • An artwork using an archway to frame the view of a landscape.

  • Photos that use overhanging branches to create a frame around a person.

  • Illustrations in books that use decorative borders as frames for the main image.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Framing's claim: it shows the game; context and focus, in art, they tame.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine you are looking through a window at a beautiful garden. The window frames the scene, making you focus on the flowers and trees within, as the rest of the world fades away, highlighting the beauty of the garden.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember: FCG – Focus, Context, and Guidance, the three goals of framing.

🎯 Super Acronyms

F.A.C.E. = Framing Adds Context and Engagement.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

Review the Definitions for terms.

  • Term: Framing

    Definition:

    A technique in visual arts using elements to create a visual border around the main subject, enhancing focus and depth.

  • Term: Depth

    Definition:

    The perception of three-dimensional space in two-dimensional artworks, often enhanced by techniques like framing.

  • Term: Context

    Definition:

    The background information or elements surrounding the main subject that adds meaning to the composition.

  • Term: Visual Narrative

    Definition:

    The storytelling aspect of an artwork expressed through visual elements like framing and composition.