Paragone Group Discussion

In our group discussion we had many points that agreed with what Leonardo's Paragone covered but also points that refute certain statements. Since all of us recently spent a week as either a sculptor or a painter, I think our opinions may have been slighty biased. It appears though, that Leonardo may have been slightly biased in his opinions, as if considering some points of sculpting superior is a direct criticism of his efforts as an artist.

The Paragone points out key differences between painting and sculpting, such as the physical work involved in making the piece of art. As Leonardo describes it, a sculptor sweats in his labor, surrounded by noise while the artist sits to paint while music is playing in the background. There is some truth to this but the tone appears to disgrace sculpting as merely a physical work while painting is a much more noble form of art. Our general consensus was, while sculpting may be a more physically demanding art form, both painting and sculpting are reputable with their own specific qualities and difficulties. It may in fact be the difficulties in each respective art form that construct its points of admiration by the audience.

A sculpture is physically demanding and a meticulous process, removing just enough material to create the right detail. It is, however, this detail which makes sculptures attractive and respected as an art. Sculpting , in general, must be able to be viewed from any angle. A painting also has its difficulties, using colors, lines, and other features effectively to potray the intended mood. Without these qualities a painting is just a picture not a piece of art. It is these qualities which give paintings their mood and touch the audience. Although none of us are professional artists each of us can sympathize in our particular struggles during our week as an artist.

Although we came to no distinct consensus as to which art form has more merit than the other we understand how the Paragone is effective in raising the discussion. It makes each one of us address the strong points of each form of art and realize what in fact makes them art. It also helps us to share our difficulties in making our piece of art.