“Art is something that makes you breathe a different kind of happiness.”- Anni Albers
The Renaissance
Dated from the 14th to 17th century, the Renaissance was a period in the history of Europe which saw great cultural development. Renaissance artists included Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael, among others.
- The Most Famous Painting in the World: Learn more about the Mona Lisa, da Vinci’s masterpiece that can be found in the Louvre Museum. (Did you know that the Mona Lisa has a twin that can be found in the Prado Museum in Barcelona? She is thought to have been painted by one of da Vinci’s apprentices!)
- David and the Annoyer: Although he’s famous for his statue of David (which can be found at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence), did you know Michaelangelo also left his mark on the streets of Florence? On the front of Palazzo Vecchio, you can find a small image of a man’s head in profile etched into stone. This graffiti (referred to as the Annoyer) is thought to be done by none other than Michelangelo himself!
The Impressionists
In 1874, a group of artists called the Anonymous Society of Painters, Sculptors, Printmakers, etc. organized an exhibition in Paris that launched the movement called Impressionism.
- Impressionist Artists: Impressionism was praised for its depiction of modern life. Well-known artists from the period include Monet, Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, and many more.
- Six Things You Never Knew About Claude Monet: You can see Monet’s work throughout France, and even visit some of the inspirations behind his most famous paintings!
- Vincent van Gogh LIVE: Immerse yourself in some of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings with this multimedia exhibit. Not real enough? Climb into Van Gogh’s actual bedroom.
Surrealism
Surrealism was one of the most influential movements in twentieth century art. Famous artists include Dali, Magritte, Tanguy, and Enst.
- What is Surrealism? Learn more about how art illustrates the unconscious with this creative movement.
- Seven Famous Artists and their Most Iconic Paintings: Take a deeper look at Surrealist artists and the messages behind their famous works.
- The Dali Theatre and Museum: Enjoy a virtual tour of this museum located in Figueres, Spain.
Cubism
Cubism is a style of art which aims to show all possible viewpoints of a person or an object at once. It is called Cubism because the items represented in the artworks look like they are made of cubes and other geometrical shapes.
- Six Artists Who Made Cubism Popular: Discover the works of Picasso, Braque, Gris, and more.
- The Picasso Museum: Take a virtual tour of the Picasso Museum in Barcelona and learn more about Picasso’s transition from traditional to modern art.
- How Cubism Changed the Way We See the World: Read a brief history of Cubism and how artists represent experiences in space and time.
Street Art
Street art is related to graffiti art in that it’s created in public locations and is usually unsanctioned, but it covers a wider range of media and is more connected with graphic design.
- The Most Controversial Street Artist in the World: Learn more about Banksy and his various pieces around the world.
- 10 Street Artists You Should Know: Keep an eye out for these urban street artists next time you travel.