What would be a good example of a dichotomy?

Question

I need to create an art piece with the theme of 'Dichotomy'.

36 hour Acrylic Painting for an AP Art class. My teacher is unclear of what dichotomy means so our class is confused of what we could do. Hopefully someone can enlighten me. Thanks!

Answer 1

A good example of dichotomy would be the works by say the famous post modern photographer Joel Peter Witkin. Here we have the all popular dichotomy of grotesque subject matter coupled with the unusual pairing of beautiful composition. In fact Witkins compositions are often modeled after classical art, yet the subject matter is often times so taboo or groteque that it is hard to decide whether or not to look at the image or not. His work is a classic example of attraction and repulsion.
I would suggest if you want to create a painting based on the theme of dichotomy try attractive subject matter repulsive theme, or vice versa repulsive theme attractive subject matter. The world is filled with such dichotomies and it shouldnt be hard to pick one out. If you cant think of one though how about starving models, attractive subject, but the underlying theme, the reason they are often times beautiful is because of very sick things like anorexia, bulima etc.

Answer 2

A dichotomy is when there are only two choices. It's black and white: there are no greys. I'm speaking metaphorically, of course. So, if you want to do a conceptual piece, you could play off on the black and white idea or or maybe something like a fork in the road. How about a black and white fork in the road?

Answer 3

the division or contrast between two things that are meant to be separate, like science and mysticism. your teacher shold not assign things that are beyond her own comprehension.