During this course, the work of art that most amazed me is The Dance Class, painted by Edgar Degas. This painting struck me on a number of levels, especially the manner in which Degas was able to execute a painting in which so many things are happening simultaneously (The Met). Painted in 1874, Degas’ oil painting on canvas is a prime example of a work from the Impressionist period, which was at its height in the mid- to late 1800s (Edgar Degas).
For me, one of the most striking features of the painting is how Degas can give the “impression” of space, and depth in the dance class, as ballerinas prepare for their lessons. In addition, his detailed brushwork deftly renders the tutus of the ballerinas, as they limber up for the dance class. Supported by a long stick, the older dance instructor sternly looks at his class of dancers as they warm up. A viewer can easily make out his rough demeanor amid the less personalized portrayals of the young dancers. This work has a magical quality that not only makes me want to know more about its historical context, but also makes me want to know more about the technique that Degas used to depict this famous scene – from a somewhat dilapidated studio (The Met).
Thus, a further action plan would entail a study of French (especially Parisian) history of this time. Moreover, I propose that a more intensive study of the Impressionist movement, in general, and Edgar Degas, in particular, would yield even more invaluable information about the painter, this era, and even the people in the painting itself. Some other websites I have found are listed below.
https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=edgar%20degas%20the%20dance%20class
http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/collections/works-in-focus/search/commentaire/commentaire_id/the-ballet-class-3098.html
http://www.nga.gov/content/ngaweb/Collection/art-object-page.93045.html
http://www.abt.org/education/archive/choreographers/perrot_j.html
Works Cited
Edgar Degas: The Complete Works. 2016. Web. 01 May, 2016.
The Met. The Dance Class. 2016. Web. 01 May, 2016.
