How to Make TV Look Like Art and Explore the Synergy Between Mediums

Television, often perceived as a passive entertainment form, can indeed transcend its conventional boundaries to resemble the depth and intricacy of art. By blending narrative storytelling with visual aesthetics and experimental techniques, television can achieve an artistic allure that challenges traditional perceptions.

Introduction

Television, a medium that has revolutionized how we consume content, often finds itself shackled by the perception of being merely entertainment. However, the evolution of television programming over the past few decades has shown that it possesses the potential to rival and even surpass other artistic mediums. This article delves into how television can be crafted to look like art, exploring various aspects such as cinematography, storytelling, music, and experimental formats.

Cinematography: Painting with Light

Cinematography is the foundation upon which television’s artistic merits are built. Directors and cinematographers can utilize lighting, camera movements, and framing to create scenes that resemble paintings or photographic art. Consider the series “Breaking Bad,” where meticulous attention to lighting and color grading not only set the tone but also mirrored the protagonist’s psychological journey.

Moreover, the use of wide-angle lenses, slow-motion sequences, and intricate shot compositions can transform everyday scenes into visually stunning masterpieces. Series like “The Leftovers” and “Westworld” have demonstrated how cinematic techniques can elevate television to a level akin to high-art films.

Storytelling: The Art of Narrative Crafting

The narrative structure of television shows can also be approached with an artistic mindset. By weaving complex character arcs, subtexts, and themes, writers can create a multi-layered tapestry that engages viewers on multiple levels. The show “Mad Men” is a prime example, where the narrative not only follows the professional and personal lives of advertising executives but also delves into the socio-cultural changes of the 1960s.

Furthermore, non-linear storytelling and the use of flashbacks, dream sequences, and parallel narratives can add depth and complexity to a show. This is evident in “Lost,” where the showrunners crafted a narrative puzzle that kept viewers engaged and speculating for years.

Music and Sound Design: The Unsung Heroes

Music and sound design are often overlooked aspects of television production, but they play a crucial role in creating an artistic atmosphere. A well-composed score can elevate a scene from mundane to memorable, evoking emotions and enhancing the visual storytelling. Shows like “Game of Thrones” have employed epic orchestrations that complement the show’s grand scale and thematic complexity.

Sound design, including ambient sounds, dialogue clarity, and foley, also contributes to the overall artistic experience. By paying attention to these details, television creators can craft an immersive auditory landscape that works in tandem with the visuals to create a cohesive artistic experience.

Experimental Formats and Techniques

Television is not bound by traditional formats, and experimenting with new techniques can push the boundaries of what is considered art. For instance, anthology series like “American Horror Story” and “Fargo” present different stories and settings each season, allowing creators to explore various genres, themes, and styles within the same framework.

Moreover, interactive television and alternate reality games (ARGs) are emerging formats that blur the line between viewer and content, inviting participation and engagement in a way that resembles art installations or performance art. These experiments showcase the versatility and artistic potential of television.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

The artistry of television is often a product of interdisciplinary collaboration. Directors, writers, cinematographers, costume designers, set decorators, and editors all contribute to the final output, bringing their unique perspectives and skills to the table. When these elements harmonize, they create a cohesive artistic experience that transcends the sum of its parts.

The Role of Audience Interpretation

Unlike paintings or sculptures, television is a collaborative medium where the audience plays an active role in the artistic experience. Viewer interpretation and engagement can vary widely, contributing to the show’s artistic merit. Shows that invite multiple readings and discussions, like “Rick and Morty” or “Black Mirror,” often spark conversations and debates that resonate beyond the screen.

Conclusion

Television, when approached with an artistic mindset, has the potential to rival and even surpass other traditional mediums. By paying attention to cinematography, narrative crafting, music and sound design, experimental formats, interdisciplinary collaboration, and audience interpretation, television creators can craft shows that transcend their conventional boundaries and resemble high art. The fusion of storytelling, visual aesthetics, and innovative techniques makes television not just a medium of entertainment but a vehicle for artistic expression and exploration.

Related Q&A

Q: Can every television show be considered art?

A: While not every television show possesses artistic merit, the potential for artistry exists within the medium. It depends on the creators’ intentions, the quality of execution, and the audience’s interpretation.

Q: How do critics evaluate the artistic quality of a television show?

A: Critics often evaluate the artistic quality of a television show based on its narrative complexity, visual aesthetics, thematic depth, character development, and overall coherence. They may also consider the show’s cultural impact and the way it engages with social issues.

Q: Are there any television shows that have been recognized as art?

A: Yes, several television shows have been recognized for their artistic qualities. Series like “The Sopranos,” “Breaking Bad,” and “The Wire” have been praised for their intricate storytelling, character development, and thematic depth, earning them a place in the pantheon of great art.