Artistic Healing: The Power of Art Therapy

A key application of art within psychology lies in art therapy, a type of psychotherapy that employs creative expression as a means for communication, self-discovery, and emotional processing. The foundation of art therapy lies in the conviction that the act of creating can be both restorative and enriching, assisting individuals in accessing and expressing their emotions, managing stress and trauma, and promoting self-awareness and personal growth.

Art therapy is especially helpful for those who struggle with expressing their emotions verbally or may be reluctant to participate in conventional talk therapy. Utilizing various artistic mediums, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, or collaging, individuals can externalize and examine their emotions, experiences, and thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental setting. This process fosters the development of fresh perspectives and realizations, ultimately leading to enhanced resilience, emotional control, and overall psychological health.

Emotional Intelligence and Self-Reflection Through Art

Art plays a vital role in cultivating emotional intelligence, which involves the capacity to recognize, comprehend, and manage our emotions and those of others. Participating in artistic activities can help individuals develop heightened self-awareness and empathy by learning to express and interpret emotions creatively.

Additionally, art promotes self-reflection and introspection, inviting individuals to investigate their inner thoughts and emotions, gaining a deeper understanding of their motivations, desires, and fears. This journey of self-discovery can result in personal growth and transformation, as individuals become more in tune with their psychological needs and establish a more robust sense of identity.

Art as a Stimulant for Psychological Resilience and Development

Artistic expression can also act as a potent coping strategy during times of stress, hardship, or trauma. Producing art offers an avenue for releasing negative emotions and processing challenging experiences, ultimately fostering psychological resilience and growth. Through the act of creating, individuals can regain a sense of control and agency, finding comfort and empowerment in their capacity to transform pain and suffering into something meaningful and beautiful.

Furthermore, engaging in art can activate the brain’s reward system and encourage the release of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. This therapeutic effect is further amplified by the sense of achievement and self-efficacy derived from mastering new artistic skills and techniques, as well as the social connections and support that can be nurtured through involvement in artistic communities and group activities.

The Art-Brain Connection: Insights from Neuroscience

Recent progress in neuroscience has illuminated the neurological underpinnings of the relationship between art and psychology, offering a more profound comprehension of the influence of creative expression on the brain. Research has demonstrated that engaging in artistic activities can boost neural connectivity, stimulate the release of neurochemicals linked to pleasure and reward, and even encourage the growth of new neurons in the brain. These neurobiological effects can lead to improved cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall mental health.

Specifically, the process of creating art has been shown to activate various brain regions involved in memory, emotion, and decision-making, such as the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex. This activation facilitates the integration of cognitive and emotional processes, resulting in heightened self-awareness, insight, and psychological adaptability. Additionally, the experience of interacting with art – as a creator or an observer – can initiate the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and a sense of pleasure and satisfaction.

The dynamic interplay between art and psychology emphasizes the profound influence that creative expression can have on our mental and emotional well-being. From its application in art therapy to its contributions to emotional intelligence, self-reflection, and psychological resilience, art functions as an essential instrument for healing, growth, and personal transformation. By embracing the healing potential of artistic expression, we can not only enhance our lives aesthetically and culturally but also foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us, paving the path for greater psychological well-being and fulfillment.

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In recent years, contemporary street art has transcended its humble beginnings to become a significant cultural movement. This creative phenomenon has transformed ordinary urban landscapes into vibrant, interactive spaces that inspire and engage communities. One such example is the innovative practice of garage door painting, which has grown exponentially in popularity, capturing the attention of art enthusiasts and homeowners alike. The fusion of practicality and artistry, garage door painting offers a unique opportunity to transform a mundane aspect of daily life into an extraordinary work of art.

A Collaborative Effort

At the heart of this movement is the collaboration between local artists and businesses, such as our very own garage door repair and replacement shop. Recognizing the potential of this art form, we have partnered with talented young artists to provide custom-made, painted garage doors that not only showcase unique artistic expressions but also add an aesthetic appeal to your home. With the increasing demand for this hot service, it has never been a better time to hire a local garage door professional and invest in a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

The Evolving Perception of Street Art

Garage door painting is more than just a trend; it is a reflection of the evolving role of street art in contemporary society. In the past, street art was often dismissed as vandalism, but today it has gained widespread acceptance as a legitimate form of artistic expression. This shift in perception is due in part to the innovative and eye-catching designs that have emerged in recent years. Garage door painting, in particular, has played a significant role in elevating street art’s status, as it combines the practicality of a functional door with the flair of a personalized artwork.

Benefits for Homeowners and Communities

Moreover, this unique art form offers numerous benefits for homeowners. A custom-painted garage door can greatly enhance a home’s curb appeal, increasing its value and setting it apart from others in the neighborhood. Additionally, by supporting local artists and collaborating with them on these projects, homeowners can also contribute to the growth and development of their community’s creative ecosystem. This collaboration fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents, as they witness the positive impact of art on their community’s appearance and atmosphere.

The Importance of Quality and Durability

Working with a local garage door professional ensures that the artwork is not only visually stunning but also durable and long-lasting. Our team of experts is committed to providing top-quality materials and employing industry-leading techniques to guarantee that your custom-painted garage door remains vibrant and functional for years to come. Furthermore, by partnering with us, you can rest assured that the entire process, from design to installation, is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

Exploring Diverse Artistic Styles

One of the most exciting aspects of garage door painting is the sheer variety of artistic styles available. From abstract patterns and intricate murals to pop culture icons and typography-based designs, there is no limit to the creative possibilities. By collaborating with local artists, homeowners have the unique opportunity to explore different artistic styles and incorporate elements of their personal tastes and interests into the design of their garage door.

In conclusion, the rise of contemporary street art through garage door painting is a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the ability of art to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones. As a garage door repair and replacement shop, we are proud to work with young artists in our community to deliver custom-made, painted garage doors that elevate the visual appeal of your home and support the flourishing art scene. Don’t miss out on this hot service – hire a local garage door professional today and transform your garage door into a striking work of art that reflects your unique style and personality

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Art is a non-stoppable process, which is constantly growing, changing, and evolving. Through times and different eras, art went through different changes, good and bad times, from prosperity to decline, but it never stopped existing. The art itself helps us to understand the different periods in human history. It’s no secret that one of the best ways to understand how people lived, thought, what they were driven by, and what they have been lusted for and had hungered is through the art of the substantial period. Nowadays, we usually divide art into seven classical forms. All these forms affect us differently – some work with our visual perceptions, and some are touching our souls through sound or emotions. These seven forms of art are:

• Theater;
• Literature;
• Painting;
• Music;
• Cinema;
• Sculpture;
• Architecture.

As you can see, the world of art is endless. Nowadays, we don’t have to go to the art gallery to experience art because it’s enough to go outside and look around. The music is played in the streets by musicians or through speakers, the sculptures are placed in the parks and churches, the films can be watched under the skies etc.

The art of casinos

And while art is constant, fluent and never absent in our lives, the situation with the gambling world is different. Gambling has been changing since the beginning of its existence. While the ancient people gambled with animal bones and stones, today’s gamblers are making money on their smartphones. Gambling has gone through different times and periods: it was the entertainment of common people, criminals, and nobility, it was forbidden in different countries and empires at different times, punished by law, then it was allowed and even encouraged, different gambling games were played at king’s palaces (like cards, dice, horse and dog racing).

But as gambling started to progress and evolve, it was also mixed with art. To play gambling games together, people needed a special place, and that’s how casinos come into the picture. The oldest casino in the world, the Casino di Venezia, sits on the Grand Canal in Venice and was opened back in 1638. This Renaissance palace was initially built in the 15th century by Italian architect Mauro Codussi. The next in the line would be the Casino de Spa in Belgium which was built in 1763, destroyed in the First World War and completely renovated in the 1980s. We also have a Kurhaus Casino of Baden-Baden in Germany, designed in the mid-1820s. Casino de Monte Carlo in Monaco opened in 1856 when Princess Caroline of the House Grimaldi allegedly came up with the idea for the state to avoid going bankrupt. The Golden Gate Casino in Las Vegas opened in 1906 and is still operational. All these casinos were built in the form of palaces, with beautiful architecture, rich furniture, soft and velvet fabrics, sculptures, the famous painting of famous artists, gold and bronze, magnificent and luminous.

The Las Vegas era became a whole new step in the world of casinos and gambling. It was not only a platform for playing games and making money it was a platform for the world’s most famous artists to perform, like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Madonna, Cher and many others.

Modern online casinos and art

The 21st century brought us a new world of online and virtual reality. Today, we don’t have to physically be somewhere to watch art or gamble. All we have to do is to connect to the internet. We can “travel” through time and countries in seconds, visit museums, and art galleries, watch live performances and movies, live streams of sports games and horse racing, and bet money in casinos without leaving our apartments. Art and casinos became forever intertwined. You can buy different paintings and posters dedicated to casinos and the world of gambling. Online casinos are using art to make their websites stand out and become more recognizable. The industry of filmmaking is using casinos in hundreds of most famous movies of all time, like California Split, The Cincinnati Kid, Rounders, The Sting with Paul Newman and Robert Redford, Martin Scorsese’s Casino with Robert De Niro, Ocean’s Eleven, James Bond Casino Royale and many others. Famous game providers are using art in creating new and exciting games for online casinos, for example using Marvel’s and DC’s Universe.

So as you can see, the gambling world is very much full of art, and the art itself can become gambling. Isn’t buying a piece of art at the auction a gambling process? You’re making your bet, and you’re trying to beat your rivals, sometimes someone is bluffing, and you have to know how to read a face to win and buy something your heart desires.

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Everyone reaches for the beauty

As the practice of famous foreign casinos shows, their focus on cultural treasures such as paintings by famous artists, works of famous sculptors and promotion of a variety of antiques, very well go. Such a move, like the cultural exposure, has served as a nice bonus for guests.

That’s why large casinos are trying to decorate their gambling halls with valuable works of art, as well as opening their areas for access to a variety of exhibitions and display of private collections. Very popular among large casinos, has become a partnership with major world museums such as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Hermitage.

Luxor and other gaming institutions are engaged in regular exhibitions, where visitors and guests can admire rare objects that have a rich historical past. One of these exhibitions is the one in honor of the legendary Titanic, containing about 250 valuable objects and decorations, which were obtained from the very bottom where the liner was sunk.

In addition to this, the very property of art is the interior of Luxor itself, which includes objects that belonged to the pharaohs themselves.

One of the most famous marketing agencies in Las Vegas, SKG, has good experience with such clients, who have taken works of art as the basis of their strategy to attract visitors. Aria Casino belongs to just such establishments.

According to the vice president of the marketing agency Jim Jentelman, many casinos use art very effectively to promote their brand. This is all done in terms of giving customers new emotions, for which people come to the casinos.

Another great example of a marketing ploy, according to Gentelman, is Cosmopolitan Casino, which is progressive in this direction. They were the first to provide a platform for artists to create.

It is not for nothing that they say opposites attract. So La Vegas and the arts, so different, and so close. This is embodied by the P3 STUDIO gallery, which is located on the third floor of the casino. The main feature is that visitors can not only watch the work of artists, but also actively participate in the creation of a new work of art.

This gallery has its doors open to artists, sculptors, designers and photographers. Simply put, for all those whose worldview has long transcended the established framework. One of the brightest representatives is the creator of the installation Metasonik Sanchez Bur. His creation is considered a harmonious combination of architecture, sound, time and structure. Casino visitors were also involved in the creation of this gallery and were invited personally by the maestro himself.

As Jim Gentleman says, the Cosmopolitan doesn’t just hang paintings on the walls. For this purpose, they use interactive technology, which can be used to demonstrate contemporary art in the most effective way.

Fine Art

This kind of art deserves a special attention. The Bellagio Casino was one of the first to realize this and to open its gallery. This event took place in 1998 and was the start for many other gambling establishments that later began to apply this practice. Bellagio was not afraid to take a risk and began its partnership with the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. The result of this fruitful partnership was the opening of the Hermitage Guggenheim Museum. The main decoration of this place is considered to be the objects of classical painting.

In spite of all this, this exhibition space failed to become popular with the public. As a result, the management of the casino decided not to extend its cooperation with the museum, which was subsequently moved to New York.

Libby Lumpkin explains the reason for this failure by the fact that connoisseurs of cultural tourism, expect to see a combination of new technologies in the tendem with fine art. As for the Guggenheim Museum, there was the usual display of paintings, which would not surprise a sophisticated viewer nowadays.

The Venetian Casino decided not to follow the path of its competitor and not to open an art gallery in its establishment. In spite of that, there is a very interesting exhibition devoted to Leonardo da Vinci. It is worth noting that, despite the scathing reproaches from detractors, the exhibition of Da Vinci is very popular with the public. The fact is that visitors have the opportunity to literally come into contact with the creations of the genius thinker, which were made clearly from his sketches.

However, this is not to say that elements of traditional art have no place in casinos. The main question is what goals and proportions the owners of the gambling establishments erect for themselves. The fact is that the combination of casinos and art can produce unintended results. The failure, which befell the Hermitage Guggenheim, was due to the fact that he could not gather a sufficient flow of visitors. People go to Las Vegas for the game, not for the art – a fundamental success in marketing. However, a small fraction of the total flow are still connoisseurs of the beautiful and don’t mind spending big bucks for their cultural enrichment.

The point is that it shouldn’t be a priority for the casino to create a separate gallery. The main thing is to make sure that the works of art can fit harmoniously into the interior of the gambling establishment, so as not to disturb those visitors who are not particularly fond of works of art.

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Gambling has long been a mass entertainment, because they allow you to have fun, relax and win real money. Not surprisingly, artists throughout history have tried to find inspiration for their work in gambling. Antonio Matias with the support of melhores online cassino introduces readers to the most popular films about gambling.

Rounders, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio

The Italian artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio painted the famous painting “Rounders” around 1594 – 1596, which brought him real popularity. The work is devoted to gambling in Italy. Caravaggio without embellishment showed the story of a naive young man who got involved with two cheaters. The dagger on the belt of one of them clearly hints at the possible outcome of the scam. However, they are united by a common drama in which everyone plays a role.

Now the painting is stored in the United States, at the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth.

“Card Players”, Paul Cezanne

A series of Paul Cezanne, consisting of 5 paintings, united by one theme – playing cards, was written in the period from 1890 to 1896. In his canvases, which are considered the most expensive in his heritage, the artist depicted the life and rest of the peasants, their simple way of life. Therefore, in the works of Cezanne, it is not excitement that is read, but a routine activity – it seems that the players are wasting their time. There is nothing to do, why not spread to the cards?

Four paintings from this series are kept in museums in Europe and America. The fifth until recently was in a private collection, until it was bought by the authorities of Qatar for the National Museum.

“At the Roulette Table in Monte Carlo” by Edvard Munch

The famous expressionist painter Edvard Munch devoted several paintings to gambling after he became addicted to roulette during his stay in the south of France. He was fascinated by the atmosphere of the casino, which led to the creation of this wonderful piece of art in 1892 – “At the Roulette Table in Monte Carlo”. In his work, the artist, who captured the drama of roulette, conveys the nervous tension at the gaming table, where losing or winning can have fatal consequences.

Today, the painting can be seen in the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway.

“Dogs Playing Poker” by Cassius Marcellus Coolidge

Cassius Marcellus Coolidge’s Dogs Playing Poker series highlights 18 canvases painted from the mid-1900s to the mid-1910s. The series was commissioned by Brown & Bigelow to advertise cigars and made the already popular card game famous. In the artist’s works, all the figures characterize humanized dogs playing poker. The artist was very fond of dogs, so he decided to depict American players in this form. Expressive emotions on the muzzles of animals, glasses with alcoholic drinks, pipes for smoking – all this emphasizes the special atmosphere that prevails in poker clubs. For example, you can play poker in it self in JackpotCity Casino and you can plunge into the atmosphere of the games and at the same time get your sign-up bonus.

Coolidge’s paintings have become widespread in the United States as examples of kitsch art. In addition, they were often copied and many parodies were written. In 2005, at an auction in New York, 2 paintings in the series were sold for $590,400 to a private collection.

“Soldiers Playing Cards” by Fernand Léger

A French Impressionist Cubist painting depicts three soldiers playing cards. This artwork was painted by Fernand Léger in 1917. The participants in the game are represented by symbolic images of details emphasizing their rank. They seem to be disassembled into parts, like parts of the general mechanism of the game. The painting shows the artist’s love for the use of mechanization in the First World War.

This canvas is considered one of the best works of Fernand Léger and is displayed in the Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo in the Netherlands.

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In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the basics of contemporary art. We’ll explore what it is, the different types of contemporary art, how to view and appreciate it, and some of the top contemporary artists you should know. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of this complex and fascinating genre.

What is Contemporary Art?

Contemporary art is an umbrella term that refers to art produced from the 1960s onwards. It includes a wide range of styles, media, and themes, making it one of the most diverse and exciting genres of art today.

Contemporary artists often challenge traditional ideas about what art is and can be. They experiment with new styles and materials, and their work often reflects current social and political issues. As a result, contemporary art can be difficult to define.

What are the Different Types of Contemporary Art?

There are many different types of contemporary art, thanks to the diverse range of styles, media, and themes used by artists today. Some of the most common types include:

* Abstract art: This type of art uses color, shape, and line to create non-representational images.

* Conceptual art: This type of art is based on ideas rather than visual elements.

* Installation art: This type of art uses three-dimensional elements to create an immersive experience.

* Performance art: This type of art is based on live performances, often involving the audience.

* Video art: This type of art uses video footage as its primary medium.

How to View Contemporary Art

If you’re interested in viewing contemporary art, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Many contemporary artists create work that is meant to provoke thought and discussion, so don’t be afraid to ask the artist or a gallery attendant about their work.

Second, take your time. Viewing contemporary art can be a lot like reading a book; it’s important to take your time and let the work sink in before forming an opinion.

Finally, don’t be afraid to express your opinion, even if it’s negative. There is no right or wrong way to interpret contemporary art, so feel free to share your thoughts and feelings about the work you’re viewing.

How to Appreciate Contemporary Art

Just like any other type of art, appreciating contemporary art can be a matter of personal taste. However, there are a few things you can keep in mind that will help you appreciate it more fully.

First, try to understand the artist’s intent. What are they trying to say with their work? What themes are they exploring? Once you have a better understanding of the artist’s goals, it will be easier to appreciate the work on a deeper level.

Second, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, or if you want to know more about a particular piece, ask the artist or a gallery attendant. The more you know about the work, the easier it will be to appreciate it.

Finally, remember that there is no right or wrong way to interpret contemporary art. Everyone perceives art differently, so trust your own instincts and let yourself react however you feel comfortable.

How Contemporary Art is influenced by Politics and Social Issues

Contemporary art is often influenced by current political and social issues. Many artists use their work to comment on topics such as war, poverty, inequality, and other pressing issues.

Some contemporary artists create work that is explicitly political, while others explore more subtle themes. Either way, it’s important to be aware of the current events and issues that may be influencing the art you’re viewing.

Keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to interpret contemporary art. Everyone perceives art differently, so trust your own instincts and let yourself react however you feel comfortable.

How Contemporary Art is Influenced by Technology

Technology has had a major impact on contemporary art. Many artists now use digital media to create their work, and some even create work that exists solely in the digital realm.

In addition, new technologies have made it possible for artists to create larger and more complex works of art. For example, some artists now use 3D printers to create sculptures, and others use projection mapping to create immersive installations.

Finally, social media has also played a role in shaping contemporary art. Platforms like Instagram and Snapchat have given rise to a new generation of artists who share their work online.

What is the Future of Contemporary Art?

It’s impossible to say definitively what the future of contemporary art will be, but there are a few trends that seem likely to continue.

First, we can expect to see more artists using digital media and technology in their work. As technology becomes more advanced, artists will have access to new tools and techniques that they can use to create truly unique pieces of art.

Second, social media is likely to remain an important part of the contemporary art world. Platforms like Instagram and Snapchat have already had a major impact on the way artists share their work with the world.

Finally, we can expect contemporary art to continue to be influenced by current political and social issues. Many artists use their work to comment on topics such as war, poverty, inequality, and other pressing issues.

Now that you know a bit more about contemporary art go out and explore it for yourself! Remember, there is no right or wrong way to interpret contemporary art. Everyone perceives art differently, so trust your own instincts and let yourself react however you feel comfortable.

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• Impact of Digital Technologies on Art

Undoubtedly, today’s artists take advantage of the latest technology. Your essay can dive into a variety of ways which is what you can talk about.

• Recent Art Exhibition

An art exhibition can allow artists to feel confident about what they bring to the table. It will enable them to show their artworks to the adoring public and a lot more that you can discuss in the art essay.

• Role of Modern Art Museum

These days, more museums are opening and plenty of people flock to the museums. Discuss what people can learn from a trip to the museum and the purposes these museums serve to artists and non-artists.

• Effects of World War II on Contemporary Art

Even if it was several decades ago, the war still has lingering effects on artists which can be discussed briefly.

• Music as Contemporary Art

Music and art are always related and it would feel great to discuss how art shows up in music and vice versa.

• Pregnant Female in Modern Art

One of the most common subjects of artists is a pregnant female. It is always a sight to behold and we can always dive deep into the reasons.

• Abstract Exhibition

A lot of people always wonder what draws people to abstract art. This is the same reason why many people will also be drawn to read your essay one way or the other.

• Relationship Between Feminism and Art

The relationship is a lot deeper than what most people think and this is a great topic especially if you’re female. These days, more and more female artists are popping up.

• Link Between Global Markets and Art

It is amazing how art is becoming a business nowadays as investors are attending global art auctions. Hence, the link between global markets and art is not that far-fetched.

• How Contemporary Art Changed Art Media

Art media is a lot different now than what it used to be back in the day due to contemporary art. Once you discuss the differences, you are also going to be amazed at how impactful contemporary art is.

• How Mobile Phones Changed Contemporary Art

There are so many apps that you can download that would allow you to work on your art even if you are on the go. It would be great to talk about how smartphones can let you save time when you work on your art in your spare time or while you try to multitask.

• Relationship between Radio and Contemporary Art

Believe it or not, there is a deep and longing relationship between contemporary art and radio.

• Why People Don’t Understand Contemporary Art

This is one of the things that we often wonder about. Contemporary is often appreciated but not a lot of people like it.

• How Contemporary Art Heals Children

There are plenty of children who were born the way they were not supposed to be. Contemporary art can heal them in ways you would have never imagined.

• How Color and Lightness are Priced in Art Auctions

Some people always wonder about the effects of lightness and color on the price of each artwork.

• Influence of Conceptual Image on Modern Art

The influence of conceptual image on today’s modern art is a lot bigger than what most people think.

• How Animations are Involved in Contemporary Art Design

These days, kids want to become animators. It is indeed a cool job where you get to design characters in such a creative manner.

• Some of the Most Accomplished Contemporary Artists

If you like to write about people then write about some of the most well-known artists and what they have accomplished.

• The Directions of Modern Art

It is always fun to go back in time and point out what modern art was like back then go through all its changes over the years.

After looking at what you can write about, the next thing to do would be to check out art essay examples so you can get the flow.

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What is known about the history of the “Last Supper”?
It is known for certain that the author of the fresco “The Last Supper” – the greatest Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is located on the end wall of the refectory of the Dominican monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Milan, Italy). When reading the name, it is customary to stress the first syllable in the word “vespers,” sometimes pronounced “vechera” (with an “e” at the end).

The 460×880 cm fresco with Biblical plot is an attempt by Leonardo to visually enlarge the room, mainly through perspective. It is complemented by drawing the lighting of the background, which occurs during the morning and evening meals of the monks. In fact, it was a successful experiment with 3D imagery, which was available to painters at the end of the fifteenth century.

Some experts claim that the images of the Apostles are faces from the client’s entourage, but Leonardo himself never mentioned this. The genius master of painting worked on the depiction of the “Last Supper” for almost 4 years, from 1495 to 1498. It was a well-paid commission from wealthy nobles – the Duke Lodovico Sforza and his wife Beatrice d’Este.

Work had to be done intermittently, it was a difficult time for the country, most of the Dominican archives burned. Therefore, many details about the works of the great master could only be confirmed by eyewitnesses, from the words of whom this period in the work of Leonardo is described. Copies are also known, in all likelihood the works of his many pupils, including Giampertino.

Who is depicted in Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary painting?
In the 19th century, when Leonardo da Vinci’s working notes and some sketches were discovered, the names of the Apostles in The Last Supper could be identified. Up to that point it was possible to determine with certainty where Jesus and Judas were. Even believers could roughly tell where John and Peter were, on either side, as the closest disciples.

It is not a fact that the disciples sit at the table in that order, but it is common to name them in order or in groups:

Bartholomew, James of Alphaeus, and Andrew;
Judas Iscariot (in green), Peter, and John (in dialogue);
James Zebedee, Thomas, and Philip;
Matthew, Judas Thaddeus, and Simon.
This is not an exact identification because even in the 4 Gospels the names (nicknames) of the 12 disciples are listed slightly differently. The fact is that there were no surnames yet, there were double names and nicknames. Often the city of birth and the reference to the father replaced the surname. For example, Judas Iscariot – an indication of the city where he joined the cohort of the Savior’s closest friends. And “brothers of Zebedee” meant “brothers of thunder” (a loud voice).

Leonardo’s closest disciples of Christ from the Last Supper have been tried in various ways, including secret signs, occult practices, and zodiacal signs. But these are all hoaxes that have nothing to do with the hierarchy according to which the guests of the meal were seated.

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History of Creation
Distant from the art of people Malevich’s painting “Black Square” causes bewilderment. They scoff at what they don’t understand, concluding by stating something like “I could do that too!”

No one today would think of dropping everything, picking up paints and a canvas to start painting a black rectangle or a “Red Quadrangle.” Yes, yes, a painting with that name also exists. And it’s definitely not a square, because all corners have a slight deviation from 90°.

That would end interest in the Soviet artist’s work, and his paintings wouldn’t pay millions of dollars at auctions. If there was only “Black Square” and there was no “Red cavalry”, “Suprematic composition” and his other creations. But then the “great self-taught artist”, a Polish Jew from Kiev who moved to Moscow, would not have been included in the list of “Soviet geniuses”, who were ahead of their time and gave a new philosophy in understanding visual art.

Art historians assign a special role to this artist, comparing him with the brilliant architects of the Renaissance and the founders of fashion trends of the early twentieth century. A man with a peculiar sense of humor will remain incomprehensible to dilettantes.

For connoisseurs he will always be the founder of a new direction in art – Suprematism, where he mixed features of different currents, such as cubism, surrealism, expressionism and futurism. And he was preparing his famous painting for the Futurist exhibition “Zero, Ten” on the Field of Mars.

“Black square” was hung instead of the icon in the red corner. Malevich said at the time: “If mankind has drawn the image of the Godhead in his own image, then perhaps the Black Square is the image of God as a being of his perfection.” There is nothing to add to this.

Black squares in the history of painting
Modular paintings
There is also a trivial version – the artist hastily hid under the “black veil” of brush strokes his best masterpiece during an attempted robbery, having closed himself in the storeroom. That may have been the case. And then he was already experimenting with different directions in art.

However, Kazimir Malevich was not the inventor of the “Black squares”. In 1617, in England, Robert Fludd left “The Great Darkness” in his vaults. The canvas resembles an outline of horizontal and vertical lines.

Later, other authors, famous and not left their names to history, offered their versions:

“View of La Hoge (night effect)” (1843);
“A Twilight History of Russia” (1854).

Descendants continued the endeavor with humor:

“The Night Fight of the Negroes in the Basement” (1882);
“The Fight of the Negroes in the Cave in the Deep Night” (1893).

Today, anyone can leave a modern version of Malevich’s Square. For example, “A Black Cat in a Dark Room on the Night of the Eclipse of the Moon” or “Sleeping Dracula in a Coffin during a Fanning Blackout.”

It would be fun to give such a piece to an auction or exhibit at a metropolitan exhibition, watching the reaction of visitors. For this would not have given and one ruble without the “promoted” name of the author. But the historical masterpieces by famous artists are worth millions.

Kazimir Severinovich Malevich patiently explained to his students (and simply to those who were curious) that Suprematism was a special philosophy in art and that it created, not repeated. Indeed, when you look at the works of Dali, Malevich or Picasso, you realize that it’s hard to come up with such things or even find something similar to copy.

That’s the value of such paintings. They are unimaginable masterpieces, inaccessible to the average person. They can be considered, to study the background of the emergence of such trends in art, but understanding the essence – somewhere beyond the commonplace. You can take a canvas and oil paints and depict something similar, but that will be the end of it. Any masterpiece is a sublimation of some philosophy and aesthetics, a special view of the surrounding reality within a narrow historical framework.

Perhaps these artists represented to the adherents of mass culture a kind of “banter,” a parody of the reality of what is happening in an age of all general decadence or decadence. Kazimir Malevich, with his Black Square, expressed a mute protest, not accepting reality. He dated his “squares” 1913-1915, on the eve of the revolution and on the eve of the First World War. He himself said that these works were a “peculiar alphabet,” “zero forms,” and “a complete absence of emotion.”

Black, in his understanding, is all colors at once. So it is from the point of view of the laws of physics. Black absorbs all colors born of a beam of light. It is the total absence of light, or “total darkness. For Malevich, the square is the “first form”. Everything begins with the rectangle and closes on it, “the germ of all possibilities”. It is said that all his geometric shapes were made by hand.

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The creative quest of the talented Dutch painter
For a long time Van Gogh’s canvases were gloomy, with a peasant-worker theme. For a while it aroused some interest, but it was not profitable to sell. “The Potato Eaters, for example, are now seen as a milestone in the work of the distinctive artist. But they belong in museums, not private collections.

Vincent’s brother, Theo Van Gogh, was in the business of selling his paintings. To distract the artist from sketching the hard life of the miners, his brother invited him to Paris. At that time, a different atmosphere prevailed there. Cheerful, sunlit, optimistic Impressionist paintings made an indelible impression on the European provincial. Degas, Monet and Renoir brought him out of his depression. Many flowers appeared in the work of the Post-Impressionist:

daisies;
mallows;
irises;
roses;
zinnias;
anemones;
carnations;
poppies;
cornflowers;
and even thistles.

Many flowers are painted a little carelessly, in a peculiar manner – with thick strokes on the canvas, almost without finishing touches and refinements. The branches of blossoming apple trees and fragrant acacia, almond and chestnut “candles”, bushes of dense oleander – all this began to fill his canvases with vivid colors. But most of all the blooming and ripening sunflowers “caught my heart.

History of creation of the painting Sunflowers
“Sunflowers” Van Gogh wrote 11 times – each image with flowering heads captivated him with all the passion and special fervor. Some paintings reek of sadness, others are full of light, depending on the mood of the author. They could not repeat, each time it was a different sunflower, which he wrote from life. In the “Parisian” series, mostly reclining sunflowers. These are large cut mature heads without a vase.

Paul Gauguin walked into one of the salons in the restaurant, where the “fashionable” Impressionist paintings were on display, on a November evening. Van Gogh’s four paintings of sunflowers, all on view at the same time, were highly praised by the eminent painter. He noted a certain “solar” symbolism, virtuoso work and an unusual handwriting in the detail of the images.

All four paintings were created between August and September 1887, a short time span for works of this level. The master said that they should be depicted differently, the backgrounds and lighting changed. For the arrival of the dear guest, Vincent hurriedly painted “large sunflowers”. The final work – “light on light”, it seemed to the author the most successful.

It was decided to hang the finished works in the guest room of the country cottage where he was waiting for Paul Gauguin. He also set aside a place for a joint workshop, where French painters could gather. At this time all his works were filled with sunshine, even Van Gogh’s self-portrait in a straw hat with a pipe.

It was a fateful meeting between a naïve admirer and his idol. Gauguin, whom Van Gogh literally idolized, inspired the unknown Dutchman to believe in his talent. But the ending was unfortunate – the world knows their quarrel and the breakdown of their relationship. One of the geniuses insisted that pictures must be painted from his head, the other wanted to work from nature, admiring what was given by nature and created by God.

The artists quarreled, it seemed, forever, and Gauguin swore that he would never cross the threshold of his studio. Thus all of Vincent’s dreams of an artistic fraternity–for the sake of saving him from poverty and loneliness–were crushed. After this, Van Gogh had a series of psychotic fits, inadequate behavior, culminating in a severed ear and isolation in an asylum for the mentally ill.

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