Art History

October 2, 2018

Discover 10 Famous Portrait Paintings and the Real-Life People Who Inspired Them

No matter the scope of their favorite subjects, most artists have dabbled in the age-old art of portraiture.  Defined by portrayals of people, whether self-portraits or commissions from statesmen or close friends, this genre has been practiced by art history’s most influential painters, culminating in an extensive collection of world-famous portraits. Used in a time before photographs to capture one’s personality and likeness, the tradition has been carried on as a more intimate and skillful gesture.

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September 20, 2018

9 Bold & Powerful Women Who Shaped the Art World

While the art world has historically seen a gender imbalance, this doesn’t mean that there have not been important women working on the scene. Artists themselves often get highlighted, but many female art patrons past and present have helped shape the way we view art. In fact, history is littered with trailblazing women who have influenced art history thanks to their work as collectors, gallerists, patrons, and museum founders.

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August 27, 2018

Picasso’s Incredible Childhood Paintings Reveal a Different Side of the Modern Artist

Usually, an artist's “early work” refers to pieces completed at the start of their career. In the case of modern master Pablo Picasso, however, the oldest examples of his artistic talent date back much further—beginning, unbelievably, when he was just a child. The prolific painter would go on to have many stylistic changes throughout his long career, but his early period is a peek into his early artistic development.

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August 14, 2018

What Is Fresco Art? Exploring the Ancient Technique of Painting on Plaster

The fresco is celebrated as one of the most significant mural-making techniques in the history of art. Though most commonly associated with the art of the Italian Renaissance, the painting technique has been around for millennia, inspiring ancient and contemporary artists alike. Created by painting directly onto wet plaster, frescoes offer a permanence not found in other forms of art.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.