Paintings
Water Lilies by Claude MonetThis is my favorite of his entire series, and I am sure it is breathtaking in real life. I have seen a version of this scene, and it is absolutely beautiful. Monet had such a delicate touch to his work. It creates this amazingly ethereal look that absolutely entrances me.
Woman in White by Pablo PicassoBefore his cubist days, Picasso delved into more literal subject matter and form. The first time I saw this painting I was 16 and it left such an impression upon me. I think the lines are so beautiful and communicative. I could look at it for hours.
Rami di Mandorlo in Fiore by Vincent van GoghThis is probably so phenomenal to view in real life because of all of the impasto that van Gogh implemented in the creation of his works. Having seen other paintings by this artist, I can only imagine the richness in color and in technique that would become obvious when viewing the painting live.
Madonna of the Rocks by Leonardo da VinciThis is a closeup of the angel in the foreground of the painting. I saw a study of this at the Met and think it exemplifies Leonardo's thorough mastery of the human form. His works never cease to amaze me, even though I have studied so many.
Sculptures
La Pieta by MichelangeloThis is my most favorite sculpture in the ENTIRE world. I hope that some day I can see it, and I will inevitably cry because it is so beautiful. I have such a respect for Michelangelo. He was able to form such delicate shapes out of pieces of marble that no one else would dare touch. I love the dichotomy of agony and tenderness that resides in this work. It is one of the most amazing things ever created by man. And I mean that.
The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa by BerniniI love the drama of this piece. Bernini was another artist that was able to capture the subtle nuances of emotion in his works. I like the exhibitionism of this one, and the background really adds to the dramatics of the piece as well.
The Kiss by RodinMy second favorite sculpture of all time is sometimes regarded as controversial. You know, because they're kissing and they're naked... and whatever. BYU had to refrain from showing this piece when the Rodin exhibit came through because of this fact. However, what I see is the very essence of love, timelessly embodied (which is why the subjects are sans clothing) and tenderly expressed. The forms in this piece are both breathtakingly simple and thoroughly emotional. I can't get over how lovely it is.
Well there you have it. Just a few of my fav pieces of art in the world. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
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4 comments:
I highly reccomend the Louvre! And my personal favorite, Le Centre Pompidou. I could have spent YEARS in there!
I love the Monet one, as well. Have you seen it? It is breath taking in person. Chicago Art Institute, my friend, is another one I highly recommend. And that sculpture is beautiful. I stared at it on your blog for five minutes at least...the way her robes flow. Amazing.
Maybe as an art expert, you can help me. Once, a long time ago, I saw a painting that touched me. I can't remember the title, or the artist, however. Minor details, right? But I'm thinking that maybe if I describe it to you, you can help me out. It is a renaissance style painting, (I think) of a woman sitting down, her two (?) children kind of kneeling/standing behind her and to the side. There is someone standing in the painting, as well, holding jewelry out towards the mother, and she is gesturing to her children instead. Implying that her jewels are her children. Any ideas? Suggestions? And thanks for this post. Maybe some day we can go stare at art together.
Did you see the Water Lillies painting at the MoMa in NY? If not next time you're around you need to go see it!! It's three HUGE panels that take up the entire wall. AMAZING!! This post makes me want to go see some art - maybe I'll stop by the Met today. Thanks for inspiring me Lauren!
la pieta is even more amazing in real life. you have got to see it! you will die!
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