Implied movement refers to the way an artist creates a sense of motion within a static work of art. It allows viewers to perceive movement even though the image itself is still.
Understanding Implied Movement
Think about how a person appears when running versus walking. Even without seeing the action unfold over time, we can often tell if someone is running or walking by their pose, the position of their limbs, and their overall posture. Implied movement utilizes these visual cues.
How Artists Convey Movement
Artists are able to convey the movement of a person walking or running (or any other type of motion) by carefully manipulating elements within their artwork.
- Changing the Balance Point: A figure in motion often has a different center of balance than a figure standing still. Leaning forward, extending a limb, or shifting weight all affect the balance point and suggest dynamic action.
- Posture and Pose: The arrangement of the body and limbs is crucial. A figure captured mid-stride or with flowing drapery suggests movement, while a rigid, symmetrical pose implies stillness. The reference states, "By changing the balance point and posture of a person, the artist can convey a static standing figure or the movement of a person walking or running."
Examples of Implied Movement
One famous example illustrating implied movement is mentioned in the reference:
- Painting: Spanish Dancer, by John Singer Sargent. The reference explicitly states, "The painting, Spanish Dancer, by John Singer Sargent, clearly illustrates implied movement." This suggests the pose, drapery, or other elements in the painting create a powerful sense of the dancer's motion.
By using these techniques, artists can imbue their static creations with a sense of life and dynamism, making the viewer's experience more engaging.
