Studying Art

            Nations are born through great distress. Blooming only after the soil has been saturated with the blood of its own children. The sanctity of such not only breeds a sense of collectivism, but an aura of righteousness. A righteousness eagerly wielded by those of power to expand into greatness; seemingly promised by those whose blood has been spilt. This promise however will never truly be fulfilled, only dangled as a carrot on a stick, leading the newly born nation down the dark path they tried so desperately to escape. Marred by two brutal revolutions, the 1700s also hosted a battle of two opposing artistic styles, mirroring the political landscape of the time. To the revolutionaries, the Rococo art style symbolized all that was wrong with the powers that be at that time, and because of such the pendulum was bound to swing in the opposite direction. Ushering in the era of Neoclassicism. David, Jacques Louis. The Death of Socrates, 1787      The Death of Socrates was created

  de Heem, Jan Davidsz. Festoon of Fruit and Flowers, 1660-1670      In the midst of the 17th century the Dutch had a mass expansion of the middle class. This growth helped vastly improve the quality of life for those residing in the Netherlands. Which in turn, led the merchant class closer towards the arts, with increased disposable income, as well as time. This increase in the economic power of the middle class allowed for the expansion of artistic exploration into broader genres, including Still-Life.  Jan Davidsz de Heem greatly enjoyed these prosperous times, both in the ways of finance and ego, being regarded as one of the most esteemed artist in the Netherlands in his day. Festoon of Fruit and Flowers, currently residing in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam; this work holds its motifs and detail work proudly. This painting portrays the life and virality given to the insects from these decaying fruits, playfully surrounded by tranquil flowers. The petals of which hold breathtaking det

  Bruegel the Elder, Pieter. Netherlandish Proverbs, 1559 Painted in 1559 in Antwerp, Belgium, by Pieter Bruegel the Elder; the Netherlandish Proverbs  portrays over 125 popular proverbs from the Netherlands. With the invention of the printing press, always popular proverbs began to strengthen the mediums pull, giving inspiration to many artist; including Pieter. He also drew inspiration from the humanist circles in Antwerp at the time, where he was regarded fairly well. Painted on an oak panel with oil paint, this work showcases incredibly delicate details in all of its showcased  proverbs. The artists use of oil paint is exemplary, especially in that of the river. His technique gives a textural depth of which is almost inviting. The composition of this painting is chaotic. It's hard to see it any other way, except for the masterful use of color. Contrasting bright reds and blues against the earthy yellow tones, in turn, leading the eyes across the image. Dancing from proverb to p