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.
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.
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.
What Is Art?
What is art? 6.3 billion different things, strictly speaking. When writing a paper, however, you should probably stick with "Art is form and content."
What is art? 6.3 billion different things, strictly speaking. When writing a paper, however, you should probably stick with "Art is form and content."
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.
Art History Jobs - Fellowship and Internship Postings
Art history job openings, Fellowships and Internships, stipends and grant competitions are updated each weekend. The most recent entries are at the top of the page. Listings are deleted when stated deadlines fall within the coming week or, if no deadline is mentioned, after roughly four weeks have passed. In other words, check back often!
Art history job openings, Fellowships and Internships, stipends and grant competitions are updated each weekend. The most recent entries are at the top of the page. Listings are deleted when stated deadlines fall within the coming week or, if no deadline is mentioned, after roughly four weeks have passed. In other words, check back often!
Definition: "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.
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.
Art History 101 - Op Art
In October of 1964, in an article describing this new style of art, Time Magazine coined the phrase "Optical Art" (or "Op Art", as it's more commonly known). The term referenced the fact that Op Art is comprised of illusion, and often appears - to the human eye - to be moving or breathing due to its precise, mathematically-based composition.
In October of 1964, in an article describing this new style of art, Time Magazine coined the phrase "Optical Art" (or "Op Art", as it's more commonly known). The term referenced the fact that Op Art is comprised of illusion, and often appears - to the human eye - to be moving or breathing due to its precise, mathematically-based composition.
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.
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.
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.
Early Renaissance Art
The "Early Renaissance" was all about Florence. Firenze, as it's known to those who live there, was the place in which to launch one's artistic career in 15th-century Italy.
The "Early Renaissance" was all about Florence. Firenze, as it's known to those who live there, was the place in which to launch one's artistic career in 15th-century Italy.
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.
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
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
Northern Renaissance
When we talk about the Northern Renaissance, what we actually mean is "Renaissance happenings that occurred within Europe, but outside of Italy." Because the most innovative art was created in France, the Netherlands and Germany during this time, and because all of these places are north of Italy, the "Northern" tag has stuck.
When we talk about the Northern Renaissance, what we actually mean is "Renaissance happenings that occurred within Europe, but outside of Italy." Because the most innovative art was created in France, the Netherlands and Germany during this time, and because all of these places are north of Italy, the "Northern" tag has stuck.
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.
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.
Late Renaissance Art
Mannerism, a phrase coined in the 20th-century, is what happened artistically during the "Late" Renaissance (otherwise known as the years between Raphael's death and the beginning of the Baroque phase in 1600).
Mannerism, a phrase coined in the 20th-century, is what happened artistically during the "Late" Renaissance (otherwise known as the years between Raphael's death and the beginning of the Baroque phase in 1600).
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.
The High Renaissance
Bidding Florence both huge thanks and a fond farewell, let's get right down to defining the who-s, what-s and when-s of the "High" Renaissance.
Bidding Florence both huge thanks and a fond farewell, let's get right down to defining the who-s, what-s and when-s of the "High" Renaissance.
What Is Representational Art?
What is representational art? The word "representational," when used to describe a work of art, means that the work depicts something easily recognized by most people.
What is representational art? The word "representational," when used to describe a work of art, means that the work depicts something easily recognized by most people.
Glossary: "texture"
Texture, another element of art, is used to describe either the way a three-dimensional work actually feels when touched, or the visual "feel" of a two-dimensional work.
Texture, another element of art, is used to describe either the way a three-dimensional work actually feels when touched, or the visual "feel" of a two-dimensional work.
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.
Glossary: 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.
Glossary: "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.).
Art History 101 - Paleolithic
For the purposes of Art History, when we refer to "Paleolithic" art, we're talking about the Late Upper Paleolithic period. This began roughly around 40,000 years ago and lasted through the Pleistocene ice age, the end of which is commonly thought to have occurred near 8,000 B.C. (give or take a few centuries). This period was marked by the rise of Homo Sapiens and their abilities to create tools and weapons.
For the purposes of Art History, when we refer to "Paleolithic" art, we're talking about the Late Upper Paleolithic period. This began roughly around 40,000 years ago and lasted through the Pleistocene ice age, the end of which is commonly thought to have occurred near 8,000 B.C. (give or take a few centuries). This period was marked by the rise of Homo Sapiens and their abilities to create tools and weapons.
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.
Melancholia I, 1514
In Dürer's work on paper, instruments of geometry, an exacting branch of mathematics in which the artist excelled, surround a downtrodden winged personification of the bodily humor melancholy, perhaps a visual reference by the master to his own inability to realize perfection in design.
In Dürer's work on paper, instruments of geometry, an exacting branch of mathematics in which the artist excelled, surround a downtrodden winged personification of the bodily humor melancholy, perhaps a visual reference by the master to his own inability to realize perfection in design.
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.
What is "Modern" Art?
Modern Art began in the 19th-century, and ran through a whole slew of "-isms" up until the end of the 1960's.
Modern Art began in the 19th-century, and ran through a whole slew of "-isms" up until the end of the 1960's.
Performance Art
The term "Performance Art" got its start in the 1960s in the United States. It was originally used to describe any live artistic event that included poets, musicians, film makers, etc. - in addition to visual artists.
The term "Performance Art" got its start in the 1960s in the United States. It was originally used to describe any live artistic event that included poets, musicians, film makers, etc. - in addition to visual artists.
A Brisk Walk Through the Eras
A quick overview of the entirety of Art History, also known as "32,000 Years in 16,000 Characters or Less".
A quick overview of the entirety of Art History, also known as "32,000 Years in 16,000 Characters or Less".
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.
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.
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.
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.
Definition: "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.
What Are the Functions of Art?
Try to remember four main points if required to describe "the functions of art:" (1) context and (2) personal, (3) social and (4) physical functions.
Try to remember four main points if required to describe "the functions of art:" (1) context and (2) personal, (3) social and (4) physical functions.
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
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.
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.
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
Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci, often referred to by just his first name, was the epitome of the term "Renaissance man". Any subject - and there were many - toward which he directed his insatiable curiousity, artistic talent and keen scientific mind found itself dissected, improved upon and catalogued for posterity. Leonardo, truly, was a man before his time.
Leonardo da Vinci, often referred to by just his first name, was the epitome of the term "Renaissance man". Any subject - and there were many - toward which he directed his insatiable curiousity, artistic talent and keen scientific mind found itself dissected, improved upon and catalogued for posterity. Leonardo, truly, was a man before his time.
Ancient Greek Art
Because so many centuries and different phases encompass "ancient Greek art" what we'll try to do rather briefly, here, is to break it down into some managable chunks, thus giving each period its due. Sort of like Greek Art giving an acceptance speech at an awards ceremony, in which it thanks all of "the little people" for helping it to become eternally memorable.
Because so many centuries and different phases encompass "ancient Greek art" what we'll try to do rather briefly, here, is to break it down into some managable chunks, thus giving each period its due. Sort of like Greek Art giving an acceptance speech at an awards ceremony, in which it thanks all of "the little people" for helping it to become eternally memorable.
Great Lyre from the "King's Grave" (detail: front panel)
Great Lyre from the "King's Grave" (detail: front panel) (Mesopotamian, ca. 2650-2550 B.C.). Shell and bitumen. © University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Great Lyre from the "King's Grave" (detail: front panel) (Mesopotamian, ca. 2650-2550 B.C.). Shell and bitumen. © University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
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.
Glossary: "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.
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.
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?
Georgia O'Keeffe
A biographical profile of Georgia O'Keeffe (1887-1986), American painter.
A biographical profile of Georgia O'Keeffe (1887-1986), American painter.
Art History Information Exchange - Calls for Papers
Art History Information Exchange - Calls for Papers
Art History Information Exchange - Calls for Papers
Art History - A Selected List of Dada Artists
Selected Dada Artist
Selected Dada Artist
Special Report - Raphael's Portrait of Lorenzo de' Medici
Raphael's Lorenzo de' Medici, a portrait of Catherine de' Medici;s father, reflects the rich history of Italian Renaissance culture from which the Florentine ruler's privileged daughter emerged.
Raphael's Lorenzo de' Medici, a portrait of Catherine de' Medici;s father, reflects the rich history of Italian Renaissance culture from which the Florentine ruler's privileged daughter emerged.
Henri Matisse
A biographical profile of Henri Matisse (1865-1954), French Fauvist painter.
A biographical profile of Henri Matisse (1865-1954), French Fauvist painter.
Proto-Renaissance Art
When studying the Pre- or "Proto"-Renaissance period, three important factors should be considered: Where this happened, what people were thinking and how art started to change.
When studying the Pre- or "Proto"-Renaissance period, three important factors should be considered: Where this happened, what people were thinking and how art started to change.
Definition: "bas relief"
A French term from the Italian basso-relievo ("low relief"), bas relief is a sculpture technique in which figures and/or other design elements are just barely more prominent than the (overall flat) background.
A French term from the Italian basso-relievo ("low relief"), bas relief is a sculpture technique in which figures and/or other design elements are just barely more prominent than the (overall flat) background.
Art History 101 - Mesolithic
Otherwise known as "Middle Stone Age," the Mesolithic period covered a brief span of around 2,000 years. While it served as an important bridge between the Upper Paleolithic and Neolithic ages, the art of this period was, well, sort of boring.
Otherwise known as "Middle Stone Age," the Mesolithic period covered a brief span of around 2,000 years. While it served as an important bridge between the Upper Paleolithic and Neolithic ages, the art of this period was, well, sort of boring.
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.
The Dancer Anita Berber, 1925
Incredibly, given her notoriety, almost no one in the present day would have heard of Anita Berber were it not for this Otto Dix portrait. The artist was never huge on using the color red, but did so here for his friend to eye-popping effect. It is the red of Venus, the red of rubies and we are nearly physically assaulted with her sexual power - even on canvas, even 80+ years after the fact.
Incredibly, given her notoriety, almost no one in the present day would have heard of Anita Berber were it not for this Otto Dix portrait. The artist was never huge on using the color red, but did so here for his friend to eye-popping effect. It is the red of Venus, the red of rubies and we are nearly physically assaulted with her sexual power - even on canvas, even 80+ years after the fact.
Claude Monet
A biographical profile of Claude Monet (1840-1926), French Impressionist painter.
A biographical profile of Claude Monet (1840-1926), French Impressionist painter.
Art History Glossary
Words, Terms, Lingo and Jargon in Art: terminology definitions obscure origin art history lingo jargon
Words, Terms, Lingo and Jargon in Art: terminology definitions obscure origin art history lingo jargon
Artists Birthdays by Month - November
Artists' Birthdays by Month - November. A list of visual artists who were born in the month of November.
Artists' Birthdays by Month - November. A list of visual artists who were born in the month of November.
Glossary: "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.
Glossary: "line"
A line is a basic element of art, referring to a continuous mark, made on a surface, by a moving point. A line is long relative to its width. It can define a space, create an outline or pattern, imply movement or texture and allude to mass or volume. Absolutely essential in creating art, the line.
A line is a basic element of art, referring to a continuous mark, made on a surface, by a moving point. A line is long relative to its width. It can define a space, create an outline or pattern, imply movement or texture and allude to mass or volume. Absolutely essential in creating art, the line.
Outline of Art History - Ancient Art - Visual Arts Movements from 30,000 BC-400 AD
Outline of Art History - Ancient Art Visual Arts Movements - ca. 30,000 B.C.-ca. 400 A.D. Prehistory
Outline of Art History - Ancient Art Visual Arts Movements - ca. 30,000 B.C.-ca. 400 A.D. Prehistory
Art History - A Selected List of Op Artists
Selected Op Artist
Selected Op Artist
John vs. Mary Magdalene
In Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, the figure at Jesus' right arm does not display an easily identified gender. He's not bald, or bearded, or anything we visually associate with "masculine". In fact, he looks feminine. Fine. We all can, and should, agree on this. The Burning Question seems to be: Is this figure a woman? My answer: No.
In Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, the figure at Jesus' right arm does not display an easily identified gender. He's not bald, or bearded, or anything we visually associate with "masculine". In fact, he looks feminine. Fine. We all can, and should, agree on this. The Burning Question seems to be: Is this figure a woman? My answer: No.
Outline of Art History - Renaissance to Early Modern Art - Visual Arts Movements from 1400-1880
Outline of Art History - Renaissance to Early Modern Art Visual Arts Movements - 1400-1880 Fifteenth
Outline of Art History - Renaissance to Early Modern Art Visual Arts Movements - 1400-1880 Fifteenth
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.).
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.
Museum and Special Exhibition Review: The Expanded Morgan Library
The Morgan's approach to art collecting was, from the very beginning, eclectic. Its assemblage of artworks was never intended to be encyclopedic. Masterworks from the Morgan amply demonstrates that fact. Artifacts from the Fertile Crescent are followed rapidly by objets d'art from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance through the Twentieth Century. The special exhibition is displayed on more than one floor of the Morgan's reinvigorated environs. While not historically comprehensive, the show spans the last three millennia of recorded human history. It starts in ancient Mesopotamia and climaxes with American songwriter Bob Dylan (b. 1941).
The Morgan's approach to art collecting was, from the very beginning, eclectic. Its assemblage of artworks was never intended to be encyclopedic. Masterworks from the Morgan amply demonstrates that fact. Artifacts from the Fertile Crescent are followed rapidly by objets d'art from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance through the Twentieth Century. The special exhibition is displayed on more than one floor of the Morgan's reinvigorated environs. While not historically comprehensive, the show spans the last three millennia of recorded human history. It starts in ancient Mesopotamia and climaxes with American songwriter Bob Dylan (b. 1941).
Joseph Cornell
A biographical profile of Joseph Cornell (1903-1972), American Assemblage artist, filmmaker and poet.
A biographical profile of Joseph Cornell (1903-1972), American Assemblage artist, filmmaker and poet.
Marc Chagall
A biographical profile of Marc Chagall (1887-1985), Russian-born French painter, designer and lithographer.
A biographical profile of Marc Chagall (1887-1985), Russian-born French painter, designer and lithographer.
Glossary: "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.
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.
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.
Glossary: "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.
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.
Monsieur Courbet, The Original Rock Star - A Review of the Gustave Courbet Exhibition
We regard Courbet as a great avant-garde painter, equal to such superb innovators as Manet, Cézanne, and Seurat, among others. And yet, today his legacy as agent provocateur seems more influential than his attention to skill.
We regard Courbet as a great avant-garde painter, equal to such superb innovators as Manet, Cézanne, and Seurat, among others. And yet, today his legacy as agent provocateur seems more influential than his attention to skill.
Special Exhibition Review: Hatshepsut: From Queen to Pharaoh
Through magnificent examples of sculpture, reliefs, exceptionally crafted jewelry, ceremonial objects and those of everyday use, Hatshepsut: From Queen to Pharaoh poignantly describes the artistic innovations of Egypt's Early Eighteenth Dynasty. Despite the damnatio memoriae that her unconventional pharaonic images suffered after her death, their resurrection and reassembly by diligent scholars have allowed us to recognize and fully admire the diverse and splendid achievements that marked Hatshepsut's reign.
Through magnificent examples of sculpture, reliefs, exceptionally crafted jewelry, ceremonial objects and those of everyday use, Hatshepsut: From Queen to Pharaoh poignantly describes the artistic innovations of Egypt's Early Eighteenth Dynasty. Despite the damnatio memoriae that her unconventional pharaonic images suffered after her death, their resurrection and reassembly by diligent scholars have allowed us to recognize and fully admire the diverse and splendid achievements that marked Hatshepsut's reign.
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.
Jacob Lawrence
A biographical profile of Jacob Lawrence (1917-2000), African American Expressionist painter.
A biographical profile of Jacob Lawrence (1917-2000), African American Expressionist painter.
Johannes Vermeer
A biographical profile of Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), Dutch Baroque painter.
A biographical profile of Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), Dutch Baroque painter.
Jasper Johns
A biographical profile of Jasper Johns (b. 1930), American painter, sculptor and printmaker.
A biographical profile of Jasper Johns (b. 1930), American painter, sculptor and printmaker.
Roy Lichtenstein
A biographical profile of Roy Lichtenstein (1923-1997), American Pop painter.
A biographical profile of Roy Lichtenstein (1923-1997), American Pop painter.
Victor Vasarely
A biographical profile of Victor Vasarely (1908-1997), Hungarian-born French Op Art painter and sculptor.
A biographical profile of Victor Vasarely (1908-1997), Hungarian-born French Op Art painter and sculptor.
Count St. Genois d'Anneaucourt, 1927
Schad portrays the Count elegantly dressed in evening clothes here, looking somewhat trapped while standing before two figures garbed in sheer gowns. They eye each other as if rivals for his attention, one a rather severe and mannish woman (identified as Baroness Glasen, for whom the Count often served as a "walker," or male escort), the other a transvestite.
Schad portrays the Count elegantly dressed in evening clothes here, looking somewhat trapped while standing before two figures garbed in sheer gowns. They eye each other as if rivals for his attention, one a rather severe and mannish woman (identified as Baroness Glasen, for whom the Count often served as a "walker," or male escort), the other a transvestite.