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Delve deeper into art with this activity

In this activity, we want you to think about how different art materials can create different impressions by comparing and contrasting two works of art. Look at the two images below, examine them carefully, and then think of how you might compare them. How are they similar? How are they different? What other kinds of relationships exist between them?
You might want to begin your comparison by thinking about these elements:
  • Colour: How does the artist’s use of colour differ in these two paintings? What effect is created by reversing the dark background/light buildings to light background/dark buildings?
  • Medium: The first painting was made using oil paint, while the second is composed of watercolours. How do these two materials differ, and what kind of atmosphere or impression does each one create? Does one reveal the brush strokes or technique or the artist more than another?
  • Subject: Is the subject of each of these paintings the same? Have they been painted from the same perspective or a different one? Why might Turner have painted the same location in two different styles?
  • Or maybe there is some other way you would like to describe these works of art?
Joseph Mallord William Turner, Bridge of Sighs, Ducal Palace and Custom-House, Venice: Canaletti Painting, exhibited 1833 Click here for a full-screen version of this artwork
Joseph Mallord William Turner, Venice: San Giorgio Maggiore - Early Morning, 1819. Click here for a full-screen version of this artwork

For further discussion

Now that you’ve explored the similarities and differences between these two works of art, share your thoughts in the Questions area below. Then read the other responses, compare them to your own, and see if someone might inspire you to think about art in a new way.
Remember: art is always open to interpretation, so there are no wrong answers!

Want to join the conversation?

  • leaf orange style avatar for user Jeff Kelman
    In a comparison of _ Bridge of Sighs, Ducal Palace and Custom-House, Venice: Canaletti Painting_ with Venice: San Giorgio Maggiore - Early Morning based on the qualities of Colour, Medium, and Subject I will refer to one painting as the "Canaletti" and the other as the "San Giorgio."

    Colour:

    The "Canaletti" painting is far more varied in the degree to which different colours are used and where they are placed. When compared to the "San Giorgio Painting I find that "San Giorgio" has few colors and is almost as if viewed through a filter.

    Medium:

    It would appear as if two different mediums were used when painting these works of art. The "Canaletti" appears as if it was made with oil on canvas which would enable a far more precise coloring and usage of contrasting areas. Whereas, the "San Giorgio" would appear to be a exquisitely executed watercolour painting. There are far fewer fine lines and there is a much more "blurry" effect that one may expect of an early morning haze.

    Subject:

    Lastly, the subject matter of the two paintings certainly seems similar, but by no means identical. The "Canaletti" painting seems to be far more "busy" and active as if during an open market season or as if preparing for some sort of later celebration. The "San Giorgio" on the other hand (as also revealed by it's title "Early Morning") seems to be taking place at a time of day when few people are out and about. This also gives the viewer a greater sense of tranquility and serenity, but when the "San Giorgio" is viewed side-by-side the "Canaletti" I feel the "San Giorgio" has a "pent up" energy quality about it. This is perhaps due to the fact that we the viewer know what this harbour is capable of in the middle of the day even though it seems we may not be looking at the harbour from the same angle or even the same harbour (it is hard to tell for sure without the title of the paintings in mind due to the central focal point of a similar tower).
    (5 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • blobby green style avatar for user Elise Scadding
      The 2 paintings appear to capture the same area from slightly different perspectives. They are quite a contrast to each other, the first being oll, bright, strong and lively.
      The second painting "Venice San Giorgio..." is much softer and more atmospheric. The subtle use of colour relays the impression of this being early in the morning, with it's soft and gentle light. This painting's beauty lies in it's simplicity and economy of line. Use of watercolour at it's best.
      (1 vote)