Formal Critique Essay on the Art-Work Apple Tree

The artwork selected is called Apple Tree created by Piet Mondrian. The image features a tree which has radiating branches. These have been crafted in such a way that they have intense color and slashing lines. Basically, the whole tree is developed using line and color. The tree is blue in color and triangular in shape. Initially, I thought the artwork was off in terms of its shape and color. This is because an apple tree rarely takes a triangular form and is not blue in color. Since this artist was a theosophist, it could be that the art work was meant to reflect his religion. This is because the color and shape of the tree are indeed a reflection of some of the symbols for theosophists. This artist wanted to show his audience what he believed in, and probably try to lure them into accepting the same. The message I am receiving is that as human beings, we are all struggling to achieve spiritual unity. Therefore, the best way to go about it is to work hand in hand, by encouraging each other.

The artist uses the elements of art in various ways. The branches of the tree are created using lines. The background of the artwork is also created using more lines. Curved lines are used to distinguish the stem of the tree from the branches. The artist has also used various colors in the artwork to create a difference in the parts. For instance, a yellowish color has been used in the background of the tree. A navy blue color has also been used at the base of the artwork, probably to indicate the ground or grass. But this color also reflects sadness or a gloomy mood. The branches of the tree seem to have mixed colors, such as the brownish color noted at the tip. A clear sky blue color is also noted in the background, probably to indicate the atmosphere. As mentioned earlier, the tree takes the form of a triangle considering how the branches are aligned. The lower branches overlap the branches at the tip of the tree. The appearance of the artwork indicates that it has a rough texture. This could be because of the material used.

Various principles of art are employed in this artwork by the artist. The most dominant principle is repetition. This artist uses lines repetitively on the tree, in the background, and even on the ground. This gives the artwork a kind of sad feeling, like everything is falling out of place. The artist also balances the art as the tree is positioned at the center. The spaces left all round reflect on each other. For instance, the top left and right spaces are almost similar. Also, the use of color has been balanced, with the tree having the most dominant color. Unity is also present in this work. For example, lines can be noted, though of different colors.

The art works of Piet Mondrian feature trees which reflected his search of space based on the relationship between two opposing entities. He argued that the existence of human beings was marked by a search for equilibrium and the synthesis between contradictory drives. In all his works, he ensured to create objects with mush deeper meanings and not just a reflection of the appearance of things. The Apple Tree is also no different from the other pieces of art he created. It also has a deeper meaning, which in this case represents the spirituality of the human race. He tries to indicate what he thinks is needed for humans to achieve that sense of spiritual unity, and uses the tree to show what it would actually look like. Piet Mondrian has used this theme of trees more than once. This is because it was a famous approach by the artists of the time. Trees symbolized life, and the triangular form symbolized a form of unity.

At this point of the analysis, my response towards the artwork has changed. At the beginning, I could not comprehend what was going on. I had no idea how to interpret it, but I could think of how the artist could have used brighter colors. I did not understand what the message was meant to be. However, after additional analysis, I noticed that the artist was trying to show how sad it is that human beings are not experiencing spiritual unity. This is the ultimate goal, which is expected to bring about peace and happiness for all mankind. I now think that the artist was trying to show that human beings are meant to be united, which is why he uses a tree and a triangular form. The repetitive lines, however, indicate the state of confusion that may be a reflection of the factors which are preventing human beings from being united. This piece of art, therefore, sends a strong message to the community as it reflects the negative actions and activities that are preventing the fulfillment of the ultimate goal.