Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Science, Humanism and Art

During the 15th Century in Italy, the Renaissance was flourishing and artistic production was at an all time high. Humanism was spreading and it relfected among most Italian artists and writers. With the help of the printing press, knowledge was accessible and more people were becoming educated. People were also looking for answers outside the church. Humanists were also interested in many different fields, including science (which was really against the church doctrine). Within science, other fields of interest includes Botany, Geology, Geography, and Optics. In artwork, the artists started to focus on human anatomy. Detailed portraits and nude paintings were created, which pushed the envelope among the church. One man that pursued many fields was Leonardo Da Vinci, considered the first "Renaissance Man". He was an expert at anything he pursued. There was a relationship between science, humanism and artistic production because the Renaissance sparked people's intelligence and caused people to become more open-minded. Paintings like Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" and the statue of "David" by Michelangelo are perfect examples of Renaissance art. Perspective was also introduced into art, which made a 2D surface look 3D.

New ideas were emerging at this time, but a relationship between science, humanism and artistic production still exists today. In the 21st Century, technology is the medium in artwork. This includes photography and film. Ideas can be shared with a camera and a still image or by the full length feature. Artists like Ansel Adams took pictures of National Parks, while directors make controversial documentaries. The possibilities for art is endless and artists are still pushing the envelope like they were in the 15th Century.

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