Still Life and The World of Symbolism

Discover two books that explore the world of symbols in still life art.

Still life art has always included hidden meanings and symbols. Each object is perfectly placed and thought of to tell a story, often more profound than what meets the eye. The next time you look at a still life painting… remember that you are getting a glimpse into a world that the artist has so perfectly crafted for their audience.

Daniela Constantini explores this world deeply in her Domestika course titled, “Still Life Photography: Create Dark and Moody Images”. In this course, Daniela explains the essentials of still life photography, and helps viewers understand how to craft images that are not only visually appealing but also have a deeper meaning. You will learn how to choose objects, arrange them according to a storyline, and use lighting to create a dark, moody atmosphere that will add a ton of depth and emotion to your work!

In this course you will also find two books that offer valuable insights about symbols in art.

1. Nature and Its Symbols by Lucia Impelluso
A fantastic guide that explains the meaning behind the symbols found in art, especially in those inspired by the natural world. It is a must read for anyone who wants to decode the meaning behind flowers, fruits, and animals that are often seen in still life works.

2. A Closer Look: Still Life by Erika Langmuir
This book takes a closer look at what makes still life such a unique genre in the world of painting. The author dives into details that distinguish still life from other forms of art, offering readers a fresh perspective on why these seemingly simple works have fascinated artists and viewers for centuries.

All three of these resources will give viewers a nice foundation in understanding symbols in still life art.

Discover more about still life art:
Still Life Photography: Lighting and Composition, a course by Massimo Bianchi