2b: Legion of Honor

2. Contains the sources you used with links to these sources .25 points
Source: Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Palace_of_the_Legion_of_Honor


3. Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities. 1 point
My choice relates to the study of humanities because it focuses on a collection of fine arts. Not only does the Legion of Honor contain artwork from great American artists, but it also holds pieces of great world artists. The arts are an important part in the study of humanities because it focuses on another form of multi-cultural communication and celebrates a form of expression. Each piece is a part of human thought and creativity, and in one way or another engages the senses of individuals.

a. Observation
As I approach the Legion’s entrance, the large, circular fountain that stands outside the museums’ doors captivates me. Its water dances with the reflection of the museum’s amazing façade. The portico is enormous with tall, white pillars, resembling a sophisticated Parisian structure. Its green lawns create a wonderful contrast of the building’s white elegance. Not only is the architecture spectacular, but also the view. The surrounding scenery allows for an overlooking view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Entering the museum, I am greeted by hundreds of paintings. Each collection is an amazing display of European paintings, all of which contain the names of recognizable artists. Red crushed velvet ropes protect each collection of artwork, and strategically placed studio lights illuminate the pieces for an ethereal effect. The place is relatively quiet so people can take in the brilliant surroundings, with the exception of headset audio tours. Overall, I have come to the conclusion that the Legion of Honor is not only an architectural gem, but also one of San Francisco’s finest art museums.

b. Interpretation
My choice is one of San Francisco’s finest art museums that display’s an impressive collection of 4,000 years of ancient and European art. The museum is dedicated to the 3,600 California men who lost their lives on the battlefields of France during World War I; an attempt to replace memories of bloodshed with beauty and preserve the brilliant French culture of the early 19th century.

c. Judgment
About two years ago I visited the Legion with my mom, my best friend, and my best friend’s mom. There was a Monet exhibit showing at the time so we all were interested in going. I can remember seeing the same paintings that I had looked at so many times in textbooks in their authentic form and I was amazed. There was no comparison of the worn photographs to the real pieces. Ever since then I have felt that art museums are so important to a state’s culture. I felt extremely fortunate to be able to see such amazing artwork in a city so close to home. I did not have to travel to Europe just to experience a fine collection. I feel that everyone should have the chance to encounter great artist’s work, no matter where they live.

d. Questioning
I know that the Legion has showcased some amazing exhibits of great artists, however, I would like to know how often they allow these displays to come to San Francisco?

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student.
Last week, I learned a little about UC Berkley from Jennifer. I discovered that Berkley is the alma mater to over 60 Nobel Prize winners. Berkley is also home to one of the best business schools in California. Like me, Jennifer is planning to transfer to UC, and is exploring all of her options. This is related to a historical and cultural context of this country because it is an institute of higher education that has produced some of the most brilliant minds the United States has ever seen. UC Berkley has also aided in several significant medical and scientific contributions throughout its existence.
Link: http://jennifer-humanities7.blogspot.com/