Still life is a genre of art, typically painting or drawing, that depicts inanimate objects like fruit, flowers, and household items. These objects are carefully arranged by the artist to focus on composition, shape, and texture. The term can also refer to the subject matter itself, which can include both natural and man-made items.
- Subject matter: Artists arrange and draw or paint a variety of still, non-living objects. Common subjects include food (fruit, vegetables, fish), cut flowers, vases, books, and other domestic items.
- Artistic focus: Still life allows artists to concentrate on technical aspects like composition, arrangement, and the careful representation of light and shadow on a still subject. It gives artists more control over the scene compared to landscapes or portraits.
- Historical context: While the practice is ancient, the still life genre became a distinct category in Western art during the 17th century, particularly in Dutch and Flemish art. The genre has evolved over time, with modern artists sometimes using it to explore conceptual themes, such as with Marc Quinn’s work that uses frozen blood and ice to represent the physical body.
- Types of still life: There are several sub-genres, including flower pieces, banquet or breakfast pieces (which often feature food and utensils), and symbolic paintings.
