All articles tagged with #art history
The article explores the possibility that Leonardo da Vinci may have painted a nude version of the Mona Lisa, based on historical accounts, sketches, and comparisons with other Renaissance artworks, suggesting that the famous portrait could have had a more provocative origin.
Aimee Ng, the new chief curator of the Frick Collection, is innovating museum engagement through a video series and by uncovering personal stories behind the artworks, such as her research into Lady Skipwith's expression and life, revealing deeper insights into the women depicted on the museum's walls.
The article analyzes Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement photo through the lens of centuries-old art history rules, highlighting how it echoes traditional themes of contract, confinement, secrecy, conflict, ceremony, and composure, akin to classical artworks from the Renaissance to the 19th century, thus framing their modern announcement within a long tradition of meticulously choreographed courtship.
Ken Burns' new PBS docuseries "Leonardo da Vinci" explores the life and legacy of the renowned artist and polymath through a unique visual and rhetorical approach. The two-part series delves into da Vinci's intellectual and artistic processes, using his notebooks as a central theme. While the documentary struggles with biographical details, it excels in showcasing da Vinci's interdisciplinary genius and his impact on art and science. Featuring insights from experts like Guillermo del Toro, the series offers a fresh perspective on da Vinci's work and influence.
Ken Burns' new PBS documentary on Leonardo da Vinci spans nearly four hours, exploring the artist's multifaceted career but often indulging in excessive praise. While featuring insights from experts like Carmen Bambach and Martin Kemp, the film misses opportunities for deeper analysis by glossing over controversies such as the authenticity of "Salvator Mundi." The documentary's style is more dynamic than Burns' previous works, yet it remains a largely uncritical celebration of Leonardo's genius, raising questions about the cultural need to idolize historical figures.
Ken Burns, renowned American documentary filmmaker, discusses his new documentary on Leonardo da Vinci, marking his first exploration of a non-American subject. The film delves into Leonardo's life as a polymath, highlighting his contributions to art, science, and engineering. Burns, known for his works on American history, was initially hesitant to take on the project but was persuaded by his family and friend Walter Isaacson. The documentary, airing on PBS, features insights from various experts and aims to demystify Leonardo, portraying him as a genius with a wide-ranging curiosity.
Oluremi C. Onabanjo, a photography curator at MoMA and a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia, balances her packed schedule with early morning writing sessions, attending exhibitions and talks, and engaging with Black scholars and art across New York City. Her cultural life is filled with absorbing images, texts, and sounds, reflecting her diverse background and deep commitment to art and history.
A long-lost painting by Italian master Caravaggio, titled "Ecce Homo," has been identified and is now on display at the Prado Museum in Madrid. Originally misattributed and nearly auctioned for $1,600, experts confirmed its authenticity, highlighting its extraordinary value. The painting, created around 1605-09, showcases Caravaggio's renowned chiaroscuro style and is on loan to the museum until mid-October.
The new Broadway musical "Lempicka" brings to life the story of Polish-born painter Tamara de Lempicka, known for her progressive lifestyle and artistic talent. The show attempts to capitalize on Madonna's homage to the artist but falls short in delivering a deep portrayal of Lempicka's bisexuality and artistic journey. Despite some standout moments, the musical struggles to fully capture the complexity of the artist's character, leaving audiences to decide if Lempicka is back in fashion.
Six artists reflect on the enduring impact of the Harlem Renaissance, with Derek Fordjour and Xaviera Simmons discussing how the movement has influenced their work. Fordjour, inspired by the contributions of Harlem Renaissance artists, incorporates their techniques and styles into his own art, feeling an obligation to bring their legacy to light. Simmons, while acknowledging the celebrated figures of the movement, also highlights the erasure of queer femmes and the oppression against women during that time, particularly in relation to Jacob Lawrence's "Migration Series."
Carl Andre, a prominent figure in the Minimalist art movement, has passed away at the age of 88. Known for his sculptures made from industrial materials and his innovative approach to language, Andre's career spanned almost seventy years. Despite facing scrutiny and allegations related to the death of his partner, artist Ana Mendieta, Andre's work continues to be widely exhibited and celebrated. His minimalist sculptures, characterized by their unadorned appearance and unusual presentation style, have left a lasting impact on the art world.
The Brooklyn Museum is hosting an exhibition called "Copy Machine Manifestos" that celebrates the radical history of zines. With over 800 objects on display, the exhibition explores the role of zines in art, their democratizing nature, and their ability to foster artistic communities. Starting in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the exhibition traces the evolution of zines, from their origins in correspondence networks to their relevance in punk, queer, and feminist movements. The exhibition aims to provide an alternative history of art and highlight the ongoing vitality of zines as a medium.
"The Hesitant Fiancée," a 19th-century painting by Auguste Toulmouche, has gained popularity on TikTok as women relate to the silent fury and eye roll of the woman depicted in the artwork. The painting, which was overshadowed by Impressionist painters, is now being reevaluated for its feminist undertones and depiction of women in solidarity. Toulmouche's works often portrayed elegant French women in domestic settings, conforming to traditional gender roles. However, contemporary viewers interpret his paintings as subtly subversive. TikTok users see "The Hesitant Fiancée" as a rebel, challenging societal expectations and expressing discontent within the confines of her role.
The Louvre has successfully acquired the 13th-century painting "Christ Mocked" after a four-year effort, with the help of a government export ban. The painting, by Cimabue, was discovered hanging in a Frenchwoman's kitchen and was initially headed for the trash. The Louvre was outbid at auction in 2019 but the French Culture Ministry declared the work a national treasure and temporarily prohibited its export. The museum was given 30 months to raise the $24 million purchase price, and it succeeded. The painting is considered a crucial milestone in art history and will be exhibited alongside another Cimabue work in spring 2025.
X-ray analysis of a tiny speck from the "Mona Lisa" has revealed new insights into Leonardo da Vinci's painting techniques. Scientists discovered a rare compound called plumbonacrite in the base layer of the painting, confirming that Leonardo likely used lead oxide powder to thicken and dry his paint. This finding provides scientific evidence for previously hypothesized techniques used by the artist. The research highlights Leonardo's experimental nature and the ongoing potential for further discoveries about his iconic masterpiece.