Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. auction (n.) – a public sale in which the product is sold to whoever offers the highest price to pay for it
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. auction (n.) – a public sale in which the product is sold to whoever offers the highest price to pay for it
Example: The
old house was put in auction so the owner can get the best price for it.
2. depict (v.) – to show or represent
something by showing a visual image or a story
Example: The
famous painting Mona Lisa depicts a lady’s mysterious smile.
3. haunting (adj.) – remaining in the mind, usually because of an
unforgettable quality
Example: The
powerful music was very haunting.
4. vibrant (adj.) – lively and full of
energy
Example:
Clothes with vibrant colors are usually worn during spring and summer.
5. inspiration (n.) – something that gives a person an idea or a
reason to do an activity
Example: Nature
is the inspiration of his vibrant
painting.
Article
Read the text below.
“The Scream,” an artwork famous around the world, will be put in auction on May 2 at Sotheby's Auction
House in New York.
The artwork was created by Norwegian artist Edvard Munch in 1895. It
depicts a haunting figure of a person standing on a bridge, with mouth wide
open, as if screaming. Two other figures of people can also be seen standing
further behind it. These figures stand against a colorful and vibrant background
The art piece was drawn with pastel, and is only one out of four
versions of "The Scream" made by Munch. It also remains in its
original frame, and is the only version that includes a poem of Munch,
explaining his inspiration for the
work. Additionally, the two figures in the artwork’s background are looking
far into the scenery, unlike in the other three works of Munch.
Sotheby's senior vice-president Simon Shaw estimates that this
version will sell for around $80 million, because of its unique and rare
features. The masterpiece would be a big honor to have for collectors and
institutions, he adds.
Before it arrived in Sotheby’s, “The Scream” in pastel was privately
owned by Norwegian businessman Petter Olsen, who received it from his father
Thomas, a friend and supporter of Munch.
Having owned "The Scream" for a long time, Olsen feels the
artwork's power to affect people has grown. He thinks that it is time to give
the rest of the world the chance to own and appreciate such a great piece of
art.
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Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
●
Why
do you think some people collect expensive artworks?
●
Would
you buy such an expensive artwork if you have the money? Why or why not?
Discussion B
●
How
important are artworks to one’s culture?
●
What
are some ways people can do to show appreciation for great artworks?