styles and ideas (specifically humanism), return to the naturalistic style (3D
objects and space),
and the rising status of the individual (both artist and patron).
What makes Renaissance paintings and sculptures so different than the art
created during
the Medieval period is the realistic representation of humans and nature.
Using techniques such
as perspective and foreshortening, the artists of the Renaissance wave
managed to create an
illusion of three dimensions.
Distinct Characteristics of Renaissance ArtRenaissance art is distinct from
other artistic traditions, such as those of the Roman,
Medieval, and Mannerist periods, in several key ways. Here are the primary
characteristics that
set Renaissance art apart:
Humanism:
Renaissance art focused on human experience, individualism, and the beauty
of the human
form. Artists sought to capture the dignity, emotion, and complexity of human
beings, a departure
from the religious and otherworldly focus of Medieval art.
Naturalism and Realism:
Renaissance artists aimed for a high degree of realism in their work. This was
achieved
through careful observation of the natural world and the use of techniques
such as linear
perspective, chiaroscuro (the use of light and shadow), and anatomical
accuracy.
Revival of Classical Antiquity:
Renaissance art was heavily influenced by the rediscovery of classical Greek
and Roman
art and philosophy. This is evident in the use of classical themes, mythological
subjects, and
architectural elements like columns and domes.
Perspective and Depth:
The development and use of linear perspective allowed Renaissance artists to
create a
convincing illusion of three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface.
This was a
significant advancement over the flat, symbolic representation of space in
Medieval art.
Focus on Secular Themes:
While religious themes remained important, Renaissance art also embraced
secular
subjects, including portraits, landscapes, and scenes from contemporary life.
This broader
thematic range distinguished it from the predominantly religious art of the
Medieval period.
Symmetry and Proportion:
