Has anyone seen Jarman's Caravaggio?
I have to write an essay about this movie. My prompt asks what the director is trying to say about the place of the art-world in society. I am so confused. Is he trying to say that the art-world is at a lower level or a higher one? I'm leaning towards lower.
Update:Cassie: Yes, I am in ARH 304! :) This prompt is so confusing...
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
I believe one of the themes or Director's intent with 'Caravaggio' was to depict the stark contrast between the subjects of Caravaggio's works, primarily uplifting and powerful religious representations, and the reality of the artist's life, which was (at least according to the movie) lived in dark depravity and baseness. It has been historically documented, and referenced in the movie, that some of the models he used for religious paintings were in fact prostitutes.
So I think at least one message the director wants to convey is that even revered, beautiful art that is now celebrated can come from humble (being polite here), or more frankly, dirty and low origins.
ARH 304? If so, I'm confused too!