The Brücke movement, a crucible of artistic innovation, remains a vital chapter in the history of modern art. In Brücke: The Birth of Expressionism in Dresden and Berlin 1905-1913, Hatje Cantz offers a visually stunning and intellectually rigorous exploration of this revolutionary group. The book transcends mere art historical analysis, presenting a nuanced cultural, social, and … Continue reading The Adaptable Educator’s Book Reviews – Brücke: The Birth of Expressionism in Dresden and Berlin 1905-1913 Published by Hatje Cantz (Out of Print)
Compare and contrast Woman with a Hat by Henri Matisse to Self-Portrait as a Soldier by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner – An ‘Isms’ Overview
Henri Matisse's "Woman with a Hat" (1905) and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's "Self-Portrait as a Soldier" (1915) are two significant artworks that emerged during the early 20th century. These paintings, created in different years by different artists, depict contrasting subject matter, styles, and artistic intentions. This analysis aims to explore the distinct characteristics of each artwork … Continue reading Compare and contrast Woman with a Hat by Henri Matisse to Self-Portrait as a Soldier by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner – An ‘Isms’ Overview
An ‘Ism’ Overview – Fauvism vs. Expressionism
Fauvism and Expressionism are two of the most significant art movements of the early 20th century. While they share some similarities, they differ significantly in their approaches to color, form, and subject matter. In this essay, I will compare and contrast these two movements, focusing on their stylistic and philosophical differences. Fauvism emerged in France … Continue reading An ‘Ism’ Overview – Fauvism vs. Expressionism
An ‘Ism’ Overview – Impressionism vs. Expressionism
As I sat in the grand halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I can't help but reflect on the two revolutionary art movements that have defined the modern era of painting: impressionism and expressionism. Both were born out of a desire to break free from the rigid constraints of traditional art and to capture … Continue reading An ‘Ism’ Overview – Impressionism vs. Expressionism
How is Modigliani using the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
As an art lover, I have spent a significant amount of time studying the works of the great artists of the past, and one artist whose work continues to captivate me is Amedeo Modigliani. His unique style and approach to art, particularly in his portraits, convey a sense of wabisabiness that is both subtle and … Continue reading How is Modigliani using the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
Where Andrew Wyeth shows a Wabi Sabi Aesthetic
Andrew Wyeth's art is often associated with the concept of wabi-sabi, a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that values the beauty of impermanence, imperfection, and incompleteness. Wyeth's paintings are characterized by their simplicity, muted color palette, and attention to detail, which contribute to their overall sense of tranquility and quiet contemplation. In this essay, I will explore … Continue reading Where Andrew Wyeth shows a Wabi Sabi Aesthetic
Arguing the Wabi-Sabi-ness of Picasso’s Pink Period Paintings
Picasso's Pink Period, which lasted from 1904 to 1906, is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the artist's career. During this time, Picasso's style underwent a dramatic shift, moving away from the dark, brooding paintings of his Blue Period and towards a brighter, more optimistic palette. The Pink Period is characterized by a distinctive … Continue reading Arguing the Wabi-Sabi-ness of Picasso’s Pink Period Paintings
Contemplating the Wabi-Sabi-ness of Picasso’s Blue Period Paintings
As an art historian, I have always been fascinated by the concept of wabi-sabi, a Japanese aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. While this aesthetic is often associated with traditional Japanese art, it can also be found in the work of Western artists who were influenced by Japanese culture, such as … Continue reading Contemplating the Wabi-Sabi-ness of Picasso’s Blue Period Paintings
Cut From Rousseau – Sheet-music Scribbles 2023
Some of my earliest inspirations (and fascinations) was Henri Rousseau's jungle foliage. The way he achieve both sharp definition and blurry movement simultaneously still sends me into an art-geek frenzy! I just love the textures that visually trigger all my senses. Maybe it's his rich use of greens and blues in a multitude of hues … Continue reading Cut From Rousseau – Sheet-music Scribbles 2023
Working out an Inspiration – T’Hed Twenty-One: Back to colours
See previous developments at T'Hed Twenty The next batch of T'heds are mostly about colour explorations with the crayons. I'm letting my gut drive the compositions and my hands dictate how to use the crayons. Truth be told, it's been a few weeks since my last drawing and I'm really having to dig deep for … Continue reading Working out an Inspiration – T’Hed Twenty-One: Back to colours
The New Renaissance Mindset 