The Artistic Aspect of Architecture

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The Artistic Aspect of Architecture

Architecture is undeniably one of the most powerful forms of art. Buildings have the ability to loom in the distance when seen from afar. As you approach it more and more details can be seen. Minute intricacies such as stone quality, texture, and perhaps some ornate detailing become apparent. Even standing at a doorway can provide some involved feelings. Does the building seem to invite the viewer inside with elaborate carvings and an open view to the interior? Or does it intimidate the viewer with its massive proportions making them feel insignificant and trivial? When inside the architecture as a medium the viewer is surrounded by and grasped within its walls and ceiling. This quality is one unique to architecture because it is the only form of art to totally surround its viewer with such magnitude. Whether one turns to the left or right, looks up or down, ceilings or walls are constantly presented to the viewer who stands amidst the intended space and substance.

A line is drawn between buildings erected to serve a mere function and those which are made to integrate an influential quality into all who happen to see them often through use of extravagance. The latter can be propelled into greatness based on whether or not they are successful in carrying out with this vision set forth by their creators. This is what sets apart an ordinary building from an impressive and monumental wonder. It is interesting to note how a building is set apart from others of its time when this building is made to represent the people as a whole. Of course this building will surpass the more ordinary ones juxtaposed within the city. Of course the society or ruler would like to put their “best ...

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...d and venerated being. On the other hand, Judas’ fate of damnation is shown by his contact with the devil clutching him.

A final statement is made in the Scrovegni Chapel on behalf of all the buildings discussed here. God is depicted at the top of the altar dispatching Gabriel. God is placed at the top to honor Him and show His superiority to all that enter the chapel. Man’s yearning to glorify God (or gods in the case of the Pantheon) has been the key driving force in the construction of many fabulous buildings. Granted there are those that deviate from this pure motive in order to satisfy self-glorification through the artwork, but basically the root of all these wonders is the chance to glorify the Supreme Being. It is wonderful to see the end results now and witness how art is so much a part of worship and of the success of architectural organization.

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