Renaissance Explored

Marilynn Davis

To study the Renaissance and, more specifically, the Italian Renaissance, is most definitely a lifelong journey. In a word, the Renaissance means “rebirth” and revival of interest in art, architecture, and literary culture. And those to personify this revival from the 14th to the 16th centuries were men such as Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci.

The term Renaissance Man is used, even today, to describe someone who has excelled in multiple disciplines. But how does our culture today mirror or contrast with the Italian Renaissance over five centuries ago? What was the prevailing thinking of the time? And, today, how would we continue to define a Renaissance Man or Woman?

The Art Guild’s presentation on Nov. 7 focused on Leonardo Da Vinci and his works as a renowned Renaissance Man. As a continuation, on Nov. 20 the SaddleBrooke Art Salon will look at three other artists who have contributed greatly to the advancement of art and architecture during the Renaissance. It is never one person alone who moves a society forward.

Architect Brunelleschi is said to be the father of Renaissance Architecture, as demonstrated by his use of perspective by building a dome using mathematical concepts.

Botticelli, while returning to classical subject matter, was able to capture and express the ideal of love and beauty, the pursuit of which was a Renaissance concept.

Michelangelo represents the High Renaissance, as he gave life and voice to the importance of man as an individual.

Please join us on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 10:30 a.m. in the Topaz Room in SaddleBrooke TWO for this free event, a discussion led by the SaddleBrooke Art Salon that will center on looking at the men and women who embody the spirit of the Renaissance today. All SaddleBrooke residents are welcome.