The Medici: Birth of a Dynasty

Why was the Medici family so important in the development of the Renaissance?
-The Medici family was important to the Renaissance's development because of their strive to strengthen their family. By being involved in certain upcoming changes such as Brunelleschi's architectural prowess and his dome atop the Florence Cathedral, the artistry of Filippo Lippi, and the sculpting of Donatello, they were able to further increase the power of the Medici. By being involved with the transitions within the society of Florence, they help to acquire power and status, as well as advance the progress of the Renaissance.

Why was Donatello's David so revolutionary?
-Donatello's David was revolutionary because, at the time, it was the first attempt at sculpting a free stand nude sculpture.

Describe this sculpture in detail.
-The sculpture of David is not portrayed as a man, but as a youthful boy. This biblical shepherd is sensual as the boy is dresses in nothing but a hat and boots. This piece is also very life like in which the shift in weight of the character gives a sense of realism.

Khary Maynard

10/3/13

HUA 101

Greek, Roman, and Egyptian Art

            Art is historically transcendental. It is a window that gives us a glimpse to perceive what the past was like. It also is a way of communication between the viewer and the artist; to converse in societal and cultural differences. Examples of art that have withstand the test of time and have been preserved to be able to sustain this glimpse into the past is Egyptian, Greek, and Roman.

            Egyptian Art focused more on the symbolism of religious belief of gods and goddesses and hierarchy. The picture below shows a sculpture of a man in a frontal position. This position would represent that this person is of noble status. The posture as to which he's standing embodies strength   and power. Also, the positioning of his feet, looking as though he's moving forward, was also a concept in Egyptian sculpture that was used only in sculptures of royalty.

            Greek Art dwells on a different focus. The human form is seen as the highest creation of nature to the Greeks. It focuses on the specific proportions of the human body. Along with this aspect, classicism, the recurrent sensibility of the realization of proportions, is also apart of the focus within Greek Art. The picture is that of the iconic Discobolos (The Disc Thrower). This sculpture was made of marble. The proportions are very detailed and a freedom of movement is a concept that was expressed in Greek sculpture.

            Roman Art takes a step away from the hierarchical and specific  proportions of the human body and focuses on being idealistic. Roman Art focuses on individuality; showing the imperfections, age, certain characteristics of the body. There was also an emphasis physical accuracy and paying attention to detail. An example of this is the art piece below is that of a man showing fear while laying against a horse. The name of this sculpture is Grand Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus depicting Roman conquest of Barbarians. This piece can also be found at the Met. The picture below is showing a piece of the whole sarcophagus. On the sarcophagus, each individual portrayed is expressing an emotion.

            Art history is way of communicating with the past. It lets the present have a glimpse of the society and cultural differences of past. This is the way in which the artist is able to converse with present-day viewers. The examples of Ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek Art are proof of this.

                

The Into

My Blogger page will be dedicated to posting art work, finding new inspirations for art, show trials and errors, things I find on the internet, etc.