Emily King's Exploration in Art

  Photo via  https://www.nga.gov Francesco del Cossa's Saint Lucy  (1473/1474) depicts St. Lucy, the patron saint of the blind. This was, unlike other Renaissance paintings, not painted with oil paints, but with the older medium of tempera. While at first glance, this painting may seem like an ordinary Renaissance painting, a further look into the details show that this painting falls into the budding mannerist category. The mannerist movement, which reached its peak more than 50 years after this painting was created, exaggerates lines and distorts the anatomy of subjects. Many people believe this style to be a commentary on the ideas and norms of the time period, specifically those perpetuated by the Church. Despite its earlier creation, this painting shows some of the key characteristics of mannerism. For example, St. Lucy's eyes in this painting may seem to be simply looking to the side at first glance. However, when you look more closely, you see that her eyes are ver...

  Photo via  www.gustav-klimt.com Gustav Klimt's 1907 painting The Kiss is a prime example of the use of multiple visual elements of art that create an enticing work of art. Painted in Austria, this painting is the last of Klimt's "Golden Period." The full effect of the painting is only efficient because of the careful and thoughtful use of line, shape, color, and pattern. Line The outline of the couple creates an organic shape that directly contrasts the straight lines that make up the shapes found within the man's clothing. Conversely, they coordinate with the softer lines that make up the circles in the woman's dress. The general organic feel of the outline creates a calming feeling that surrounds the couple. Additionally, the vertical lines in the clothing create a sense of strength and stability. Shape The round shapes found within the woman's clothing suggest a gentleness that surrounds the woman. In contrast, the sharp rectangles that are found wit...