INTRODUCTION TO THE RENAISSANCE ART

  • Renaissance ("rebirth") emerged in the 14th century Italy, focused on classical learning.
  • Key figure: Giotto di Bondone, known for naturalism in art.
  • Emotional drama and three-dimensional space marked a shift from Byzantine art.

OBJECTIVES

  • Explain key elements of Renaissance art.
  • Differentiate between Early and High Renaissance.
  • Discuss how ideology influenced art production.
  • Examine theories and practices surrounding cave paintings.

RISE OF RENAISSANCE ART

  • Shift from Florence to papal Rome after Medici family's decline in late 15th century.
  • Rome became a hub for artists due to its papacy and classical heritage.
  • High Renaissance fueled by religious patronage, particularly from Pope Julius II.
  • Significant contributions include the rebuilding of St. Peter's Basilica and masterpieces by Michelangelo and Raphael.

MEDICI FAMILY

  • Florence: A central city of the Renaissance, powered by the Medici family (1434-1494, with later return in 1512).
  • The Medici supported arts and literature, influencing cultural developments.
  • Lorenzo de' Medici known as a key patron and intellectual figure.
  • Linear perspective established by Brunelleschi, adopted and promoted by Alberti.

EARLY RENAISSANCE

  • Italy: Composed of city-states fostering competition and cultural growth.
  • Emphasis on naturalism and humanism, moving away from medieval Christianity influence.
  • Key artists: Masaccio (perspective in painting), Donatello (realistic sculptures), and Brunelleschi (architecture).

HIGH RENAISSANCE

  • Timeframe: c. 1500-1530, marked by artists Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
  • Characterized by artistic peak and unique style shifts, moving from straightforward to idealized nature.
  • Development of techniques like sfumato (Leonardo) and atmospheric perspective.
  • Major works include Leonardo's "Last Supper" and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.

SIGNIFICANT TECHNIQUES AND STYLES

  • Sfumato: Blurring edges for a soft transition in visual elements.
  • Atmospheric/Aerial Perspective: Techniques for depicting depth by altering color and clarity with distance.
  • High Renaissance sought grace and subtlety, increasing complexity in figures and compositions.