Where are the Masters of Today?

Artists moved from the status of contracted artisans to “art stars” and “masters” during the Renaissance and Baroque periods due to independent personalities. They found solutions to visual problems and were dedicated to learning about science. They used mathematical or linear perspective which made their paintings and sculptures proportional. Artists began to paint landscapes with great detail given to nature. Renaissance painters used classical mythology or Christian themes to create their narrative pictures specifically for the church. This allowed them to show men and women in different poses. This was a period that artists explored, because they had a desire for knowledge and solutions. Ceiling frescos gave the impression of a much larger space. This trompe l’oeil (“fool-the-eye”) illusion was continued by many painters during the Baroque period which were done for churches and palaces.

Today’s artists copy paintings to study, learn, and find inspiration from the great “masters” of the past. They are able to gain insights into the creative process that was used by the creative geniuses during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Artists used to have these great teachers that helped them develop incredible esthetic abilities to produce magnificent art. Artists today have lost an understanding and appreciation for the great art of the past. Unlike art of the past which could be understood and appreciated by all, today’s art requires special knowledge and insights about modern art. Artists today are not learning as those that were educated from the great masters. Since artists today have been separated from the great masters, they can teach themselves by returning to the past and studying the great works of the masters.