Punch,  63 (1872), 15.

Examinations at the Royal Academy

Anon

Genre:

Essay

Subjects:

Representation, Education, Expertise, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Natural History, Mathematics, Anatomy, Physiology, Botany, Light


    Contends that the most promising way to cultivate artistic genius and increase the number of good pictures at the Royal Academy is to subject artists, like scientists, to written examinations. Proposes to examine candidates on several technical aspects of their work including the chemistry, specific gravity, and biological provenance of paints, and the botanical, geological, and natural historical aspects of animal and landscape painting. Thinks artists should also master geometry and optics to help them with perspective, and should learn anatomy and physiology to improve their depictions of the human form. Recognises that 'no artist [...] could possibly make himself master of all the sciences' and reflects on the deficiencies of cramming.



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