The subject of mythology has been explored in art for centuries, ranging from the ancient megalithic structures to the work of Rembrandt van Rijn and Pablo Ruiz Picasso. But are art legends in history of art? These are important questions that require more in-depth research, so we’ll examine some famous works from each period. Here, we’ll take a closer look at what they have to do with history and art.
Mythological themes
Mythological themes in art have fascinated and informed artists and painters for centuries. Artists’ representations of myths have been a subject of debate throughout history. Modern artists are particularly preoccupied with issues of representation, such as the idealized mirror image and the male and female gaze. Many also consider art to be a form of libidinal sublimation. In response to these concerns, contemporary artists have gravitated to myths such as the stories of Pygmalion, Narcissus, and Orpheus as metaphors and interpretative strategies.
Myths can protect us from the Real. For instance, the Greek myth of Orpheus teaches us that the perfect woman is beautiful. The human form is made up of many facets, and myths can provide both a shield and a guide. Whether a woman is a man or a woman, myths provide us with a means to escape the Real and make our lives better.
Prehistoric megalithic structures
For centuries, Europeans have attributed the creation of their massive stone structures to giants, aliens, and even Satan. The earliest scientific theories, however, held that megalithic structures were built by a specific group of people, possibly from the Mediterranean or Near East. These people were believed to have traveled around ancient Europe by sea, spreading their monument building practices. The mythology behind these stone structures is as old as the continent itself.
While the precise construction of megalithic monuments is still debated, there are several sites that have been extensively studied for their relationship to the stars. In Ireland, Newgrange is an example of a megalithic tomb with a strong astronomical connection. However, critics of archaeoastronomy argue that these examples should not be extrapolated to other constructions. For example, the tables of Menorca have been studied in detail for their relation to celestial cycles.
Rembrandt van Rijn’s work
The importance of Rembrandt van Rijn’s work can not be overstated. This Dutch artist was a master storyteller, known for his use of light and shade in his paintings. He is also renowned for his realistic style. His portraits, like The Night Watch, are among the most popular paintings in history. However, there is more to his art than a simple portrait. Learn about his life and career to appreciate the impact his work has had on history.
After leaving university at the age of sixteen, Rembrandt began teaching. He had 50 pupils by the time of his death, but many more were engrossed in his art. The young Rembrandt had “uncountable” pupils, according to the artist Joachim von Sandrart, who lived in Amsterdam from 1637 to 1645. Students paid Rembrandt 100 guilders per year in tuition. However, the artist did not pay his pupils boarding. Therefore, his income from teaching was significant.
Pablo Ruiz Picasso’s work
His work is legendary and his life was a story of hardship and triumph. His father, Jose Ruiz Blasco, was a painter and a local museum curator. Picasso’s surname, “Picasso,” is a Spanish variant of the Italian name Tommaso, and the artist’s great-grandfather came to Spain in 1807. His parents were both atheists and their work reflects the times.
Born in 1881 in Malaga, Spain, Picasso was a legend of the 20th century. His life and work became a legend, influencing generations. He left a legacy of admirable art pieces in history. Picasso’s unbridled talent and prolific creativity influenced a variety of movements, from Impressionism to Catalan Modernism. Ultimately, he returned to Realism with his Cubist works.
Henry Ossawa Tanner’s work
His paintings have been the subject of numerous legends about history and art. He was the first African American to attend the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. After graduating, Tanner spent two years teaching at Clark College before deciding to move to Paris. His work was so impressive that the Bishop and Mrs. Hartzell organized a show of his work, and they bought the entire show when no other buyers came forward. Tanner then traveled to Europe, where he visited Liverpool and London before finally arriving in Paris.
The first painting of Tanner’s career, The Thankful Poor, was a silver medal-winning work for the Pan American Exhibition in Buffalo. He also was elected to the National Academy of Design in 1910 and received France’s highest honor in 1923. His work became increasingly important and well-received, and he travelled to Paris several times to showcase his paintings.