How did Art change as a result of Renaissance thought
The Renaissance period, with its focus on humanism and a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman art, had a profound impact on the development of art. Several key changes occurred as a result of Renaissance thought:
1. Emphasis on Realism: Renaissance artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, sought to depict the world as they saw it, focusing on capturing the natural world in a more realistic manner. There was a move away from the flat, stylized representations of the medieval period towards three-dimensionality and the depiction of human emotion and anatomical accuracy.
2. Perspective: Renaissance thinkers rediscovered the ancient Greek and Roman principles of linear perspective, allowing artists to create more accurate and realistic representations of space. This innovation led to a greater sense of depth and spatiality in Renaissance art, making it more immersive and convincing.
3. Humanism: Renaissance thought was centered on the idea of humanism, which emphasized the worth and potential of individual humans. Art began to reflect this focus, with artists portraying individuals as the subject matter of their works. Portraits and individualism became prominent, highlighting the unique qualities and characteristics of people.
4. Nature and Naturalism: Renaissance artists shifted their attention to the natural world and the study of nature. They began to use observation and direct study of the natural world, leading to greater accuracy in depicting landscapes and natural elements. This emphasis on the natural world brought a sense of harmony and balance to Renaissance art.
5. Secularization: The Renaissance witnessed a shift away from the exclusively religious subject matter of medieval art. While religious themes remained prevalent, secular subjects started to gain prominence. As the Renaissance embraced a more human-centered worldview, art began to explore a range of subjects, including mythology, history, literature, and everyday life.
6. Individual Creativity: The concept of the artist as a creative genius emerged during the Renaissance. Artists were no longer seen as mere artisans but as intellectual beings with unique talents and artistic vision. This recognition of individual creativity resulted in innovative art techniques, experimentation, and a freer exploration of artistic expression.
Overall, Renaissance thought brought about a revolution in art, encouraging artists to focus on realism, humanism, perspective, nature, and individual creativity. These changes not only transformed the art of the Renaissance period but also laid the foundation for the development of art in subsequent centuries.