Art of Medieval Europe: Gargoyles
What is a Gargoyle? Gargoyles are grotesque carved figures which often adorn medieval buildings, usually churches or cathedrals. Most are imaginary creatures based on animals, but some have human traits. Cathedral of Notre Dame, Paris
What is a Gargoyle? In Medieval times (500 A.D. - 1450 A.D.), gargoyles were added to Romanesque and Gothic buildings to act as waterspouts to protect the masonry from erosion. They were placed along the roof and downspouts.
What is a Gargoyle? The word gargoyle comes from the Latin word 'gurgulio', meaning "throat" and also describing the "gurgling" sound made by water as it ran through the figure. In Medieval times, these stone creatures were believed to protect the cathedrals from evil spirits, and to “scare” people into attending church
Purpose of Gargoyles Decoration Protection from evil spirits Their spout was used to direct water away from buildings
Grotesques Grotesques are sculptures that do not work as waterspouts and serve only an ornamental or artistic function. In “layman’s terms” these are usually also called gargoyles
The Lion Motif In ancient times, the lion was linked to the sun During the medieval period lions became the symbol of pride, one of the 7 deadly sins.
The Dog Motif Dogs were seen as faithful, loyal, and intelligent, making them excellent guardians.
The Wolf Motif Although the wolf was a really feared creature in medieval times, it was also respected. Wolves have the ability to live and cooperate as a pack that gave rise to the metaphor that a wolf could be a leader of a pack and protect the members.
The Eagle Motif A powerful bird who was said to be able to slay dragons. Eagles were respected for their ability to see far away objects, and were also said to renew themselves by looking into the sun
Chimeras Chimeras are merely mixes of different types of animal body parts to create a new creature. Some of the more notable chimeras are griffins, centaurs, harpies, and mermaids.
Chimeras
Chimeras
Human-like Gargoyles Grotesque versions of humans were also common subjects The sculptors were known to include portraits of their enemies
Human-like Gargoyles
Human-like Gargoyles
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project Use paper mache to create a sculpture inspired by medieval gargoyles
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project Draw 4 different ideas in your sketchbook Create an original design *Gargoyle must include both animal and human features Rough work will be checked, and is part of your grade
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project Build the armature for your sculpture Armature is the underlying structure. You can use anything—cardboard, newspaper, tape, wire, plastic, empty cans or bottles…etc
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project Add the first layer of papier mache Mix flour, water & glue to create the paste. It should be the consistency of pancake batter Dip strips of newspaper into the paste, strain off excess, and apply to your armature
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project For details, create a pulp by soaking shredded newspaper in hot water overnight, then straining it.
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project The pulp can then be used to create subtle details like eyes, teeth, and ridges
Paper-Mache Gargoyle Project When everything is dry, paint your sculpture using acrylic paint. You will need at LEAST 2 coats of paint. It is a good idea to lay down 2 coats of a solid color, then dry brush on the shadows, highlights and textures
Evaluation Design (Balance, complexity & creativity) Technique (Smooth finish, strength, polish) Painting (Coverage, detail, texture)