Torture in art throughout history

Abstract

Abstract Art is a valuable asset in drawing attention to difficult issues in a different way. Controversial and taboo subjects, such as torture, are often ignored in people’s daily lives, but no subject is off limits in the art world. Exposing people to artwork that depicts torture provides them with a starting point to begin a conversation with others about a difficult subject or to dig deeper into their own minds. Sometimes the best work of art is not the most visually pleasing or beautiful, but is instead the piece that connects to the viewer emotionally and makes them think about why it was created. By looking at the portrayals of torture in art from before 1275 B.C. through present day, I was able to learn about the reasoning behind why torture was used and why an artistic documentation was necessary. I continued my research of torture depicted in art by creating my own digital painting and an accompanying artist statement.