Art History: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
The Last Supper
Ten common questions answered, about one of the world's best-loved religious paintings.
Ten common questions answered, about one of the world's best-loved religious paintings.
Henry Ford Hospital, 1932
Also known as "The Flying Bed," this is arguably the most painful self portrait that Frida Kahlo ever painted. Not only had she just suffered her second miscarriage, she was also beginning to realize that she could never carry a pregnancy to term. Additionally, these physical and emotional agonies had to be faced in a foreign city that she detested, and in which she felt completely estranged.
Also known as "The Flying Bed," this is arguably the most painful self portrait that Frida Kahlo ever painted. Not only had she just suffered her second miscarriage, she was also beginning to realize that she could never carry a pregnancy to term. Additionally, these physical and emotional agonies had to be faced in a foreign city that she detested, and in which she felt completely estranged.
The Sistine Chapel Ceiling
Answers to seven common questions about the most famous ceiling frescoes on the planet.
Answers to seven common questions about the most famous ceiling frescoes on the planet.
Art History Jobs - Fellowship and Internship Postings
Art History Job, Fellowship and Internship Postings This page contains career opportunities that come
Art History Job, Fellowship and Internship Postings This page contains career opportunities that come
What are the Elements of Art?
The elements of art are both fun and useful. Remember: line, shape, form, space, texture, value and color. Knowing these elements will allow you to analyze, write and chat about art, as well as create it yourself.
The elements of art are both fun and useful. Remember: line, shape, form, space, texture, value and color. Knowing these elements will allow you to analyze, write and chat about art, as well as create it yourself.
What Is Art?
: What Is Art? Note: This is a question that pops up around once a month, typically from a student who
: What Is Art? Note: This is a question that pops up around once a month, typically from a student who
Dada 101
Dada was, officially, not a movement, its artists not artists and its art not art. That sounds easy enough, doesn't it? Of course, there is a bit more to the story of Dadaism than this simplistic explanation.
Dada was, officially, not a movement, its artists not artists and its art not art. That sounds easy enough, doesn't it? Of course, there is a bit more to the story of Dadaism than this simplistic explanation.
The Artists of Impressionism
These were the trend setters of Impressionism, the initial band of French artists who met, formulated their working plans, exhibited and (mostly) lived in Paris during the mid- to late 19th Century. It was they who have influenced every generation of artists since, and they who, in retrospect, changed forever how we think about, view and create art.
These were the trend setters of Impressionism, the initial band of French artists who met, formulated their working plans, exhibited and (mostly) lived in Paris during the mid- to late 19th Century. It was they who have influenced every generation of artists since, and they who, in retrospect, changed forever how we think about, view and create art.
Leonardo da Vinci - The Paintings
A chronological survey of Leonardo da Vinci's work as a painter, from his earliest 1470s efforts as an apprentice in Verrocchio's workshop, to his final painted piece, St. John the Baptist (1513-16).
A chronological survey of Leonardo da Vinci's work as a painter, from his earliest 1470s efforts as an apprentice in Verrocchio's workshop, to his final painted piece, St. John the Baptist (1513-16).
What is "Contemporary" Art?
Art from the 1960's or 70's up until this very minute.
Art from the 1960's or 70's up until this very minute.
form
Form is an element of art. At its most basic, a form is a three-dimensional geometrical figure. In a broader sense, form, in art, means the whole of a piece's visible elements and the way those elements are united. In this context, form allows us, as viewers, to mentally capture the work, and understand it. Finally, form refers to the visible elements of a piece, independent of their meaning.
Form is an element of art. At its most basic, a form is a three-dimensional geometrical figure. In a broader sense, form, in art, means the whole of a piece's visible elements and the way those elements are united. In this context, form allows us, as viewers, to mentally capture the work, and understand it. Finally, form refers to the visible elements of a piece, independent of their meaning.
Mona Lisa Coloring Page
A line drawing of Leonardo's Mona Lisa for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A line drawing of Leonardo's Mona Lisa for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Woman in a Hat with Pompoms and a Printed Blouse, 1962
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). Woman in a Hat with Pompoms and a Printed Blouse, 1962. Linoleum cut printed in colors. 30 x 24 1/2 in. (76.2 x 62.2 cm). The Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kramer Collection, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kramer, 1985. (1985.1079.4). The Metropolitan Museum of Art. © 2010 Estate of Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). Woman in a Hat with Pompoms and a Printed Blouse, 1962. Linoleum cut printed in colors. 30 x 24 1/2 in. (76.2 x 62.2 cm). The Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kramer Collection, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kramer, 1985. (1985.1079.4). The Metropolitan Museum of Art. © 2010 Estate of Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.
Northern Renaissance
When we talk about the Northern Renaissance, what we actually mean is "Renaissance happenings that occurred
When we talk about the Northern Renaissance, what we actually mean is "Renaissance happenings that occurred
shape
A shape is an element of art. Specifically, it is an enclosed space, the boundaries of which are defined by other elements of art (i.e.: lines, colors, values, textures, etc.).
A shape is an element of art. Specifically, it is an enclosed space, the boundaries of which are defined by other elements of art (i.e.: lines, colors, values, textures, etc.).
What Is Visual Art?
What are the visual arts? The visual arts are those creations we can look at, such as drawing or painting. If you care to know how we arrived at this term, read on.
What are the visual arts? The visual arts are those creations we can look at, such as drawing or painting. If you care to know how we arrived at this term, read on.
balance
As a basic principle of art (specifically of design), balance refers to the ways in which the elements (lines, shapes, colors, textures, etc.) of a piece are arranged.
As a basic principle of art (specifically of design), balance refers to the ways in which the elements (lines, shapes, colors, textures, etc.) of a piece are arranged.
Pop Art
Pop Art admired the Post-World War II consumer age.It featured recognizable imagery during the height of Abstract Expressionism,as a rebellious response for a younger generation. Most of the recognizable iconography came from popular sources, such as magazines, advertizing, packaging, comic books and tabloid news. The spirit of the movement expressed an optimism that celebrated the return to normalcy and American influences after the hardship of the war.
Pop Art admired the Post-World War II consumer age.It featured recognizable imagery during the height of Abstract Expressionism,as a rebellious response for a younger generation. Most of the recognizable iconography came from popular sources, such as magazines, advertizing, packaging, comic books and tabloid news. The spirit of the movement expressed an optimism that celebrated the return to normalcy and American influences after the hardship of the war.
texture
: ( noun ) - Texture , another element of art, is used to describe either the way a three-dimensional
: ( noun ) - Texture , another element of art, is used to describe either the way a three-dimensional
The Renaissance in Venice
During the Renaissance Venice gave birth to a distinct school of painting. There was just something about the light there that begged to be captured on canvas.
During the Renaissance Venice gave birth to a distinct school of painting. There was just something about the light there that begged to be captured on canvas.
contrast
A principle of art, contrast refers to the arrangement of opposite elements (light vs. dark colors, rough vs. smooth textures, large vs. small shapes, etc.) in a piece so as to create visual interest, excitement and drama.
A principle of art, contrast refers to the arrangement of opposite elements (light vs. dark colors, rough vs. smooth textures, large vs. small shapes, etc.) in a piece so as to create visual interest, excitement and drama.
emphasis
Emphasis is a principle of art which occurs any time an element of a piece is given dominance by the artist. Frequently, emphasis is achieved by means of contrast.
Emphasis is a principle of art which occurs any time an element of a piece is given dominance by the artist. Frequently, emphasis is achieved by means of contrast.
Art History 101 - Op Art
Flashback to 1964. In the United States, we were still reeling from the assassination of our President,
Flashback to 1964. In the United States, we were still reeling from the assassination of our President,
Abstract Art
A painting or sculpture that does not depict a person, place or thing in the natural world.
A painting or sculpture that does not depict a person, place or thing in the natural world.
Sunflowers Coloring Page
A line drawing of Vincent van Gogh's Vase with 12 Sunflowers for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A line drawing of Vincent van Gogh's Vase with 12 Sunflowers for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Performance Art
The term "Performance Art" got its start in the 1960s in the United States. It was originally used to
The term "Performance Art" got its start in the 1960s in the United States. It was originally used to
Synthetic Cubism
Synthetic Cubism was invented by Picasso and Braque as they simplified a specific repertory of forms derived from their Analytic Cubism period of 1909/10 to 1912. Synthetic Cubism also incorporated collage and papier colle in Picasso and Braque's work.
Synthetic Cubism was invented by Picasso and Braque as they simplified a specific repertory of forms derived from their Analytic Cubism period of 1909/10 to 1912. Synthetic Cubism also incorporated collage and papier colle in Picasso and Braque's work.
Michelangelo
Michelangelo Buonarroti - Italian Sculptor, Painter, Architect and Poet. Michelangelo was arguably the most famous artist of the Italian Renaissance, and inarguably one of the greatest artists of all time. He considered himself a sculptor, primarily, but is equally well known for the paintings he was induced (grudgingly) to create. He was also an architect and an amateur poet.
Michelangelo Buonarroti - Italian Sculptor, Painter, Architect and Poet. Michelangelo was arguably the most famous artist of the Italian Renaissance, and inarguably one of the greatest artists of all time. He considered himself a sculptor, primarily, but is equally well known for the paintings he was induced (grudgingly) to create. He was also an architect and an amateur poet.
Picasso
Pablo Picasso, also known as Pablo Ruiz y Picasso, was singular in the art world. Not only did he manage to become universally famous in his own lifetime, he was the first artist to successfully use mass media to further his name (and business empire). He also inspired or, in the notable case of Cubism, invented, nearly every art movement in the twentieth century.
Pablo Picasso, also known as Pablo Ruiz y Picasso, was singular in the art world. Not only did he manage to become universally famous in his own lifetime, he was the first artist to successfully use mass media to further his name (and business empire). He also inspired or, in the notable case of Cubism, invented, nearly every art movement in the twentieth century.
space
An element of art, space refers to distances or areas around, between or within components of a piece.
An element of art, space refers to distances or areas around, between or within components of a piece.
Starry Night Coloring Page
A line drawing of Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A line drawing of Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Christina's World
Andrew Wyeth painted this in 1948. His father, N. C. Wyeth, had been killed at a railway crossing just three years earlier, and Andrew's work underwent a significant change after the loss. His palette became muted, his landscapes barren and his figures--if present--seemed plaintive. Christina's World epitomizes these traits.
Andrew Wyeth painted this in 1948. His father, N. C. Wyeth, had been killed at a railway crossing just three years earlier, and Andrew's work underwent a significant change after the loss. His palette became muted, his landscapes barren and his figures--if present--seemed plaintive. Christina's World epitomizes these traits.
unity
A principle of art, unity occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole.
A principle of art, unity occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole.
Art History Quiz: Know Your French Impressionists
Art History Quiz: Know Your French Impressionists. 8 Artists, 20 Questions.
Art History Quiz: Know Your French Impressionists. 8 Artists, 20 Questions.
Early Renaissance Art
The "Early Renaissance" was all about Florence . Firenze, as it's known to those who live there, was
The "Early Renaissance" was all about Florence . Firenze, as it's known to those who live there, was
Cubism
An early twentieth century art movement that rebelled against Renaissance one-point perspective and illusionism through an emphasis on geometricity, simultaneity, and passage. Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque pioneered Cubism's ideas and style.
An early twentieth century art movement that rebelled against Renaissance one-point perspective and illusionism through an emphasis on geometricity, simultaneity, and passage. Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque pioneered Cubism's ideas and style.
Outline of Art History - Modern Art - Visual Arts Movements from 1880-1970
Outline of Art History - Modern Art Visual Arts Movements - 1880-1970 After Impressionism proved it only
Outline of Art History - Modern Art Visual Arts Movements - 1880-1970 After Impressionism proved it only
color
Color is the element of art that is produced when light, striking an object, is reflected back to the eye. There are three (3) properties to color.
Color is the element of art that is produced when light, striking an object, is reflected back to the eye. There are three (3) properties to color.
Artists in 60 Seconds Index - Visual Artist Bios From A to Z
In this large index, famous (and not-so-famous) names from the world of art are arranged alphabetically by last name. Also known as Artists in 60 Seconds, each profile contains pertinent facts about an individual name and links to further resources whenever applicable.
In this large index, famous (and not-so-famous) names from the world of art are arranged alphabetically by last name. Also known as Artists in 60 Seconds, each profile contains pertinent facts about an individual name and links to further resources whenever applicable.
What is "Modern" Art?
: What is "Modern" Art? : Please know that this is a good question. We are contemporary to modern times.
: What is "Modern" Art? : Please know that this is a good question. We are contemporary to modern times.
value
An element of art, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.
An element of art, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.
Surrealism
Surrealism based its artistic content on the dream and unconscious drives, such as sexuality, hunger, anger and bodily functions. They believed that thoughts unleashed in dreams were as authentic as thoughts produced during wakeful consciousness. Their strange juxtaposition of images brings to their work a sense of the randomness of the uncensored mind. The image can be biomorphic or academic, which is all the more disturbing because the appearance can look almost real or surreal.
Surrealism based its artistic content on the dream and unconscious drives, such as sexuality, hunger, anger and bodily functions. They believed that thoughts unleashed in dreams were as authentic as thoughts produced during wakeful consciousness. Their strange juxtaposition of images brings to their work a sense of the randomness of the uncensored mind. The image can be biomorphic or academic, which is all the more disturbing because the appearance can look almost real or surreal.
Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism or " AbEx " (a.k.a. Action Painting or Color Field Painting; a.k.a. The New York
Abstract Expressionism or " AbEx " (a.k.a. Action Painting or Color Field Painting; a.k.a. The New York
The High Renaissance
After hearing so much about Florence, in the article entitled " The Early Renaissance ," it would be
After hearing so much about Florence, in the article entitled " The Early Renaissance ," it would be
Andy Warhol
A biographical profile of Andy Warhol (1928-1987), American painter, filmmaker and Pop icon.
A biographical profile of Andy Warhol (1928-1987), American painter, filmmaker and Pop icon.
Post-Impressionism
Post-Impressionism is a collection of artists whose work comes directly out of the Impressionism or was inspired by the Impressionist movement, but pushes one aspect of the Impressionism to an extreme. Robert Rosenblum explained that the Post-Impressionists tried to construct a private pictorial world.
Post-Impressionism is a collection of artists whose work comes directly out of the Impressionism or was inspired by the Impressionist movement, but pushes one aspect of the Impressionism to an extreme. Robert Rosenblum explained that the Post-Impressionists tried to construct a private pictorial world.
Triple Elvis, 1963
Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987). Triple Elvis, 1963. Acrylic and silkscreen ink on canvas. 82 x 118 in. (208.3 x 299.7 cm). Doris and Donald Fisher Collection at SFMOMA. © Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts / ARS, New York. Photo: Ian Reeves.
Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987). Triple Elvis, 1963. Acrylic and silkscreen ink on canvas. 82 x 118 in. (208.3 x 299.7 cm). Doris and Donald Fisher Collection at SFMOMA. © Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts / ARS, New York. Photo: Ian Reeves.
Free Art History Coloring Pages
A series of art-historic line drawings for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print these for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A series of art-historic line drawings for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print these for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Late Renaissance Art
The High Renaissance in Italy was astonishing. It represented a peak, a height, a veritable zenith (if
The High Renaissance in Italy was astonishing. It represented a peak, a height, a veritable zenith (if
Analytic Cubism
Analytic Cubism was developed by Picasso and Braque to refer to real objects in terms of identifiable details that become, through repetitive use, signs that indicate the idea of the object, just like we find in cartoon characters.
Analytic Cubism was developed by Picasso and Braque to refer to real objects in terms of identifiable details that become, through repetitive use, signs that indicate the idea of the object, just like we find in cartoon characters.
American Gothic Coloring Page
A line drawing of Grant Wood's American Gothic for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A line drawing of Grant Wood's American Gothic for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Was Leonardo Gay?
: Are You Saying Leonardo Was Gay? : No, I am not saying Leonardo was gay. I don't know if Leonardo was
: Are You Saying Leonardo Was Gay? : No, I am not saying Leonardo was gay. I don't know if Leonardo was
Art History 101 - Paleolithic
The Paleolithic (literally: "Old Stone Age") period covered between two and one-half to three million
The Paleolithic (literally: "Old Stone Age") period covered between two and one-half to three million
Glossary: "rhythm"
Rhythm is a principle of art that's difficult to summarize in words. Assuming that you've picked up on a rhythm in music before, take what you heard with your ears and try to translate that to something you'd see with your eyes. Rhythm, in art, is a visual beat.
Rhythm is a principle of art that's difficult to summarize in words. Assuming that you've picked up on a rhythm in music before, take what you heard with your ears and try to translate that to something you'd see with your eyes. Rhythm, in art, is a visual beat.
Write an Art History Paper
Advice on how to write an art history paper, written by an art history professor, offering dos and don'ts that will help you complete the assignment on time. Appropriate for high school and college students.
Advice on how to write an art history paper, written by an art history professor, offering dos and don'ts that will help you complete the assignment on time. Appropriate for high school and college students.
Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci, often referred to by just his first name, was the epitome of the term "Renaissance
Leonardo da Vinci, often referred to by just his first name, was the epitome of the term "Renaissance
Glossary: "proportion"
Proportion is a principle of art that describes the size, location or amount of one element to another (or to the whole) in a work. It has a great deal to do with the overall hamrony of an individual piece.
Proportion is a principle of art that describes the size, location or amount of one element to another (or to the whole) in a work. It has a great deal to do with the overall hamrony of an individual piece.
Shepard Fairey
A biographical profile of Shepard Fairey (b. 1970), American Contemporary artist.
A biographical profile of Shepard Fairey (b. 1970), American Contemporary artist.
Glossary: "medium"
: ( noun ) - In art, " medium " refers to the substance the artist uses to create his or her artwork.
: ( noun ) - In art, " medium " refers to the substance the artist uses to create his or her artwork.
Art History - A Selected List of Dada Artists
Selected Dada Artist
Selected Dada Artist
A New Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci
New Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci Found! By Maike Vogt-Lüersse
New Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci Found! By Maike Vogt-Lüersse
What Is Representational Art?
: What Is Representational Art? : "I would like to have an introduction article on representational art..."
: What Is Representational Art? : "I would like to have an introduction article on representational art..."
Appropriation Art
Appropriation art takes images from well-known contexts and puts these images into other contexts, usually paintings, sculpture, collages, combines or installations. Recontextualizing the image adds meaning and associations to the original image (or real thing) as well as completes the meaning of the Appropriation artist's own work.
Appropriation art takes images from well-known contexts and puts these images into other contexts, usually paintings, sculpture, collages, combines or installations. Recontextualizing the image adds meaning and associations to the original image (or real thing) as well as completes the meaning of the Appropriation artist's own work.
What Are the Functions of Art?
: What Are the Functions of Art? : Smarter people than I have written entire books about this question.
: What Are the Functions of Art? : Smarter people than I have written entire books about this question.
John vs. Mary Magdalene
: Is that John or Mary Magdalene in the Last Supper? : (Heaven help us all - aren't there more important
: Is that John or Mary Magdalene in the Last Supper? : (Heaven help us all - aren't there more important
Renaissance Explained
We all know what the Renaissance was: Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and company created some fabulous paintings and sculptures that we continue to marvel over many centuries later and so on and so forth. Was it really that simple?
We all know what the Renaissance was: Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and company created some fabulous paintings and sculptures that we continue to marvel over many centuries later and so on and so forth. Was it really that simple?
Outline of Art History - Contemporary Art - Visual Arts Movements from the 1970s-Present
Outline of Art History - Contemporary Art Visual Arts Movements - 1970s-Present 1970 Post-Modernism - 1970s-mid
Outline of Art History - Contemporary Art Visual Arts Movements - 1970s-Present 1970 Post-Modernism - 1970s-mid
Glossary: "pattern"
A principle of art - and probably the universe itself - pattern means the repetition of an element (or elements) in a work. An artist achieves a pattern through the use of colors (children playing with Legos® know this instinctively), lines (think: Op Art) or shapes (as with mosaics, tessellations, etc.).
A principle of art - and probably the universe itself - pattern means the repetition of an element (or elements) in a work. An artist achieves a pattern through the use of colors (children playing with Legos® know this instinctively), lines (think: Op Art) or shapes (as with mosaics, tessellations, etc.).
Frida Kahlo
A biographical profile of Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón (1907-1954), Mexican painter.
A biographical profile of Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón (1907-1954), Mexican painter.
Sleeping Gypsy Coloring Page
A line drawing of Henri Rousseau's Sleeping Gypsy for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
A line drawing of Henri Rousseau's Sleeping Gypsy for your coloring page fun. You are free to save and print this image for personal, educational and non-commercial purposes.
Art History Timelines
Below you will find that which "they" (who say many things) call The Big Picture: the entirety of art
Below you will find that which "they" (who say many things) call The Big Picture: the entirety of art
Art History - A List of Artists Who Committed Suicide
About Art History - A List of Artists Who Committed Suicide
About Art History - A List of Artists Who Committed Suicide
Ellen DeGeneres, Kauai, Hawaii, 1997
Annie Leibovitz (American, b. 1949). Ellen DeGeneres, Kauai, Hawaii, 1997. Gelatin silver print. Sheet: 20 x 16 in. (50.8 x 40.6 cm). Collection of the artist. © Annie Leibovitz, 2010.
Annie Leibovitz (American, b. 1949). Ellen DeGeneres, Kauai, Hawaii, 1997. Gelatin silver print. Sheet: 20 x 16 in. (50.8 x 40.6 cm). Collection of the artist. © Annie Leibovitz, 2010.
Art History Calls for Papers
People, committees and even acronyms are all out there seeking valuable input from you. Aside from sharing knowledge, Calls are also golden opportunities to network in a tight job market.
People, committees and even acronyms are all out there seeking valuable input from you. Aside from sharing knowledge, Calls are also golden opportunities to network in a tight job market.
A Brisk Walk Through the Eras
Put on your sensible shoes as we embark on an extremely abbreviated tour of art through the ages. The
Put on your sensible shoes as we embark on an extremely abbreviated tour of art through the ages. The
Special Exhibition Review: The Perfect Medium: Photography and the Occult
Photography gracefully meets the seemingly paranormal in this unconventional, small-scale special exhibition at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Photography gracefully meets the seemingly paranormal in this unconventional, small-scale special exhibition at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Quick Tips on Photographing Your Works of Art - How to Photograph Paintings, Drawings and Sculptures
There are numerous reasons that a work of art's owner might require a photograph of the painting, drawing or object in question. Assuming you do not own a high-end SLR or DSLR camera, or professional lighting equipment, release cables and tripods, there remain at least four steps anyone can take to ensure reasonably good pictures of art.
There are numerous reasons that a work of art's owner might require a photograph of the painting, drawing or object in question. Assuming you do not own a high-end SLR or DSLR camera, or professional lighting equipment, release cables and tripods, there remain at least four steps anyone can take to ensure reasonably good pictures of art.
Vincent van Gogh
Vincent van Gogh lived a short, deeply tormented life, throughout which he sought (in vain) his place in the world. He died, by his own hand, feeling his life was a miserable failure. Unbeknownst to Vincent, the work he did pioneered the Expressionistic style and, 150 years after his birth, his name would be world famous.
Vincent van Gogh lived a short, deeply tormented life, throughout which he sought (in vain) his place in the world. He died, by his own hand, feeling his life was a miserable failure. Unbeknownst to Vincent, the work he did pioneered the Expressionistic style and, 150 years after his birth, his name would be world famous.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). Quatre Baigneuses, 1921.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). Quatre Baigneuses, 1921. Egg tempera on vellum, mounted on wood panel 4 x 6 in. Private Collection of Paul G. Allen.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). Quatre Baigneuses, 1921. Egg tempera on vellum, mounted on wood panel 4 x 6 in. Private Collection of Paul G. Allen.
Do-It-Yourself Marilyn Monroe Coloring Page
There is no wrong way to go when choosing your own Marilyn color scheme. In fact, Andy Warhol revisited his 'Marilyn Series' several times and made some rather curious choices of his own (think: pumpkin, black-brown and lime green). One is left supposing that your Do-It-Yourself Marilyn could undergo the star treatment with some glitter, sequins and, possibly, a few glued-on feathers.
There is no wrong way to go when choosing your own Marilyn color scheme. In fact, Andy Warhol revisited his 'Marilyn Series' several times and made some rather curious choices of his own (think: pumpkin, black-brown and lime green). One is left supposing that your Do-It-Yourself Marilyn could undergo the star treatment with some glitter, sequins and, possibly, a few glued-on feathers.
Art History Glossary - Definitions for Art Words and Terms
An alphabetized index of Art and Art History definitions for words and terms.
An alphabetized index of Art and Art History definitions for words and terms.
bas relief
: A French term from the Italian basso-relievo ("low relief"), bas relief is a sculpture technique in
: A French term from the Italian basso-relievo ("low relief"), bas relief is a sculpture technique in
Special Exhibition Preview - Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise
Lorenzo Ghiberti's achievements in art clearly reflect his firm grasp of a new and progressive visual vocabulary that emerged in Renaissance Florence, one that distinguished him from his city's medieval predecessors. The High Museum of Art's upcoming special exhibition, devoted to three panels from Ghiberti's famed Gates of Paradise, amply demonstrates this point.
Lorenzo Ghiberti's achievements in art clearly reflect his firm grasp of a new and progressive visual vocabulary that emerged in Renaissance Florence, one that distinguished him from his city's medieval predecessors. The High Museum of Art's upcoming special exhibition, devoted to three panels from Ghiberti's famed Gates of Paradise, amply demonstrates this point.
My Grandparents, My Parents, and I (Family Tree), 1936
Frida Kahlo (Mexican, 1907-1954). My Grandparents, My Parents, and I (Family Tree), 1936. Oil and tempera on metal. 12 1/8 x 13 5/8 in. (30.8 x 34.6 cm). Gift of Allan Roos, M.D., and B. Mathieu Roos. The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Digital image © The Museum of Modern Art/Licensed by SCALA/Art Resource, NY. © 2007 Banco de México Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Museums Trust. Av. Cinco de Mayo No. 2, Col. Centro, Del. Cuauhtémoc 06059, México, D.F.
Frida Kahlo (Mexican, 1907-1954). My Grandparents, My Parents, and I (Family Tree), 1936. Oil and tempera on metal. 12 1/8 x 13 5/8 in. (30.8 x 34.6 cm). Gift of Allan Roos, M.D., and B. Mathieu Roos. The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Digital image © The Museum of Modern Art/Licensed by SCALA/Art Resource, NY. © 2007 Banco de México Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Museums Trust. Av. Cinco de Mayo No. 2, Col. Centro, Del. Cuauhtémoc 06059, México, D.F.
Titian (Tiziano Vecellio)
A biographical profile of Titian (Tiziano Vecellio), Venetian painter in the Italian High Renaissance.
A biographical profile of Titian (Tiziano Vecellio), Venetian painter in the Italian High Renaissance.
Green Car Crash (Green Burning Car I), 1963
Here we see Green Car Crash (Green Burning Car I), created by Andy Warhol in 1963 from a tabloid image taken by photographer John Whitehead. Whitehead's shot captured the aftermath of the fiery conclusion of a police chase in Seattle. The car that had been pursued overturned at 60 m.p.h., ejecting its driver at a speed sufficient to impale his body on a climbing spike in a utility pole.
Here we see Green Car Crash (Green Burning Car I), created by Andy Warhol in 1963 from a tabloid image taken by photographer John Whitehead. Whitehead's shot captured the aftermath of the fiery conclusion of a police chase in Seattle. The car that had been pursued overturned at 60 m.p.h., ejecting its driver at a speed sufficient to impale his body on a climbing spike in a utility pole.
sfumato
Sfumato means that there are no harsh outlines (as in a coloring book) present; areas blend into one another through miniscule brushstrokes, which makes for a rather hazy, albeit more realistic, depiction of light and color.
Sfumato means that there are no harsh outlines (as in a coloring book) present; areas blend into one another through miniscule brushstrokes, which makes for a rather hazy, albeit more realistic, depiction of light and color.
Ancient Greek Art
As happened centuries later with a handful of Renaissance painters, ancient Greek art tends to be thought
As happened centuries later with a handful of Renaissance painters, ancient Greek art tends to be thought
Test Your Knowledge- A Quiz on the French Impressionists
They were an interesting bunch, the French Impressionists, and drew many non-French Impressionists into their orbit. They changed Western art - and the way we view it - forever. I thought it'd be fun to spotlight seven gentlemen and one lady, in order that you could test your knowledge of the group. If you get all 20 questions correct, kudos!
They were an interesting bunch, the French Impressionists, and drew many non-French Impressionists into their orbit. They changed Western art - and the way we view it - forever. I thought it'd be fun to spotlight seven gentlemen and one lady, in order that you could test your knowledge of the group. If you get all 20 questions correct, kudos!
Self-Portrait with Necklace, 1933
Frida Kahlo (Mexican, 1907-1954). Self-Portrait with Necklace, 1933. Oil on metal. 13 1/2 x 11 1/2 in. (34.3 x 29.2 cm). The Jacques and Natasha Gelman Collection of Modern and Contemporary Mexican Art: Courtesy The Vergel Foundation; Muros; Costco / Comercial Mexicana. © 2007 Banco de México, Trustee of the Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Museums Trust. Av. Cinco de Mayo No. 2, Col. Centro, Del. Cuauhtémoc 06059, México, D.F.
Frida Kahlo (Mexican, 1907-1954). Self-Portrait with Necklace, 1933. Oil on metal. 13 1/2 x 11 1/2 in. (34.3 x 29.2 cm). The Jacques and Natasha Gelman Collection of Modern and Contemporary Mexican Art: Courtesy The Vergel Foundation; Muros; Costco / Comercial Mexicana. © 2007 Banco de México, Trustee of the Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Museums Trust. Av. Cinco de Mayo No. 2, Col. Centro, Del. Cuauhtémoc 06059, México, D.F.
nonobjective art
A work of art that does not represent or depict a person, place or thing in the natural world.
A work of art that does not represent or depict a person, place or thing in the natural world.
Love Conquers All (Amor Victorious), 1602
Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (Italian, 1571-1610). Love Conquers All (Amor Victorious), 1602. Oil on canvas. 156.5 x 113.3 cm (61 9/16 x 44 9/16 in.). Staatliche Museen Berlin, Gemäldegalerie. Image © Staatliche Museen Berlin, Gemäldegalerie - Einrichtung der Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz. Photo: Jörg P. Anders.
Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (Italian, 1571-1610). Love Conquers All (Amor Victorious), 1602. Oil on canvas. 156.5 x 113.3 cm (61 9/16 x 44 9/16 in.). Staatliche Museen Berlin, Gemäldegalerie. Image © Staatliche Museen Berlin, Gemäldegalerie - Einrichtung der Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz. Photo: Jörg P. Anders.
Color Field Painting
Color Field Painting is a branch of Abstract Expressionism that concentrates on colorful shapes and expanses of color which emphasize the literal flatness of the canvas or paper.
Color Field Painting is a branch of Abstract Expressionism that concentrates on colorful shapes and expanses of color which emphasize the literal flatness of the canvas or paper.
J. M. W. Turner
A biographical profile of Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851), English Romantic painter.
A biographical profile of Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851), English Romantic painter.
Impressionism
Impressionism is about the fugitive quality of light as it falls on a surface, indicating the transience of time and quick pace of modern life. Its avant-garde technique features short, painterly brushstrokes of bright colors that blend when the eyes view the painting at a distance.
Impressionism is about the fugitive quality of light as it falls on a surface, indicating the transience of time and quick pace of modern life. Its avant-garde technique features short, painterly brushstrokes of bright colors that blend when the eyes view the painting at a distance.
Exhibition Gallery - In Monet's Garden: The Lure of Giverny
Claude Monet's beloved gardens at his Giverny home were a source of inspiration not just to him, but to scores of other artists during his life, after his death and to the present day. This special exhibition is built around twelve core Monet canvases and includes an additional 44 works by French painters, and American Impressionist, Post-World War II and Contemporary artists.
Claude Monet's beloved gardens at his Giverny home were a source of inspiration not just to him, but to scores of other artists during his life, after his death and to the present day. This special exhibition is built around twelve core Monet canvases and includes an additional 44 works by French painters, and American Impressionist, Post-World War II and Contemporary artists.
Deb's Unofficial Guide
Deb R. Fuller, museum professional, graciously and generously shares excellent advice for those seeking to break into the business.
Deb R. Fuller, museum professional, graciously and generously shares excellent advice for those seeking to break into the business.
Neolithic Art
After the rather ho-hum art of the Mesolithic era, art in the Neolithic (literally: "new stone") age
After the rather ho-hum art of the Mesolithic era, art in the Neolithic (literally: "new stone") age
Art History - A List of Anceint Greek Artists
Ancient Greek Artist
Ancient Greek Artist
Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997). The Kiss, 1962.
Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997). The Kiss, 1962. Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997) The Kiss, 1962 Oil on canvas 80 x 68 in. Private Collection of Paul G. Allen Image © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein
Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997). The Kiss, 1962. Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997) The Kiss, 1962 Oil on canvas 80 x 68 in. Private Collection of Paul G. Allen Image © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein
Henry Ford Hospital, 1932
Also known as The Flying Bed , this is arguably the most painful self portrait that Frida Kahlo ever
Also known as The Flying Bed , this is arguably the most painful self portrait that Frida Kahlo ever
Leonardo's Real Name
: What Was Leonardo's Name? : In The Da Vinci Code , Robert Langdon refers to Leonardo as "Da Vinci."
: What Was Leonardo's Name? : In The Da Vinci Code , Robert Langdon refers to Leonardo as "Da Vinci."