Baroque Period

The Baroque is a period of artistic style that focuses on the effective depiction of motion and details. It is as if its goal is to effectively put images and paintings into action by applying techniques and styles that will enhance it as a whole. This period began in Rome, Italy and spread to most parts of Europe. Baroque is a word derived from the Portuguese word, Barraco, meaning "unregularly shaped pearl". It gave birth to most treasured pearls of Western Arts. This Period is basically known and recognized by the presence of 5 elements, namely: Motion, Space, Concept of time, use of light and drama or theatricality. It was a very vivid picture of how eager artists are to produce more realistic and dramatic artworks that would define the western arts. For me, the most striking characteristic of Baroque Art is the way artists tend to give motion and emotions to their piece of art. They really paid attention in putting details that surely did contributed a lot to make their goal a success.

The image above is the portrait entitled "Las Meninas" by Diego Velasquez. For me, this masterpiece is beyond amazing. Ironic, isn't it? The painter is supposed to paint the picture of the princess, yet, he preferred to paint the whole scenario of the princess' preparation. The painter gave us a chance to see the picture as if we are exactly there. Like we are actually part of that special day. I was amazed when I first learned about this and made me salute the artist even more for he really did a very realistic, captivating and stunning masterpiece. Baroque art, as I see it, is relevant to the present expression of art in a way that they both aim to be convincing. There are intricate details and the techniques used are highly anticipated. Even in the presence of modern technology such as photography, modern art still aims to be as realistic as it should be in any way possible.

Baroque art influenced me as a young artist because it opened my eyes into so much more possibilities. Imagine, I learned that moving pictures are not only possible inside Harry Potter's realm, but with imagination, motion can also be applied in paintings and sculptures. Because of the richness of talent, perseverance and dedication of the people of France, it replaced Rome as the center of art in the world. Because of this, the world was more exposed to new and continually growing innovations in the field of arts. It goes to show how blessed we are to be able to do such amazing works. As a student, I think Baroque arts influenced me by convincing me that anything is possible. Things or situations may be harsh sometimes, but there is hope. If we really have the heart to succeed and we have faith that we will, then it is possible. Baroque art opened my mind that hard work really does pay off.

Rebirth

The word Renaissance is a French word meaning new birth, a name given to the movement in Europe. For me, I think this particular era is one of the most influential period in the history of arts. Why? Because it was the rebirth of the classical art. Paintings during this era was full of symbolism. Subject of the artworks were not limited to Christianity, but it revolved around different point of artistry. Different artists have their own special way to convey their creativity. Although the Renaissance saw revolutions in many intellectual pursuits, as wells as social and political upheaval, it is perhaps best known for its artistic developments and contributions of such artists as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, who inspires the term "Renaissance Man".

Humanism was the defining intellectual movement of the Renaissance. It was based on the belief that the literary, scientific, and philosophical works of ancient Greece and Rome provided the best guides for learning and living. And humanists believes that the New Testament and early Christian authors offered the best spiritual advice. The life and work of Leonardo da Vinci is highlighted as one of the most important people of the Renaissance period. Leonardo da Vinci was to further perfect the aspects of pictorial art that had preoccupied artists of the Early Renaissance, in a lifetime of studying and recording his observations of the natural world. His adoption of oil paint as his primary media meant that he could depict light and its effects on the landscape and objects more naturally and with greater dramatic effect than anyone had ever done before, as demonstrated in the Mona Lisa.

For me, Renaissance art influenced me because of the styles and techniques that the artists used in their paintings really did have a great atmospheric appeal to these artworks. Their masterpiece serves as an undying piece of inspiration for artists around the globe. The use of light and shadows that definitely created a huge impact on these paintings are highly appreciated by the modern generation  Their artworks are simple, yet it conveys large and meaningful messages to its viewers. Someday, I would want to create my very own masterpiece that would connect to the personal feelings and emotions of its viewers. I want to inspire other artists as well through crafting every single resources I have.

The Renaissance is studded by the names of the artists and architects, with their creations recorded as great historical events. - Arthur Ericson