How Has Art Changed Over the Ages?

Prehistoric Period: The Birth of Art Through Cave Paintings

The earliest evidence of the birth of art dates back roughly 40,000 years to the Lascaux cave paintings. At first glance, these paintings appear to depict only hunting scenes, but further examination reveals that they also convey elements of magic and rituals. What’s most fascinating is that the natural dyes used in these works, created tens of thousands of years ago, have remarkably retained their vibrancy. The permanence of these paintings is due to the use of plant-based dyes and natural pigments.

The Discovery of 'Perfect' Mathematics in the Greek and Roman Period

(5th century BC – 4th century AD)One of the most revolutionary periods in art history is undoubtedly the Ancient Greek and Roman Era. This period, which introduced the concept of the Golden Ratio into our lives, was also significant in understanding the importance of mathematics. The Parthenon Temple was built in accordance with this ratio, and Greek sculptures, with their perfect bodily proportions, conveyed the balance found in nature through art. The sculptures of this era were revolutionary for their ability to express movement and life in artistic form.

Art in the Middle Ages: The Language of Religion

(5th century – 15th century)In this period, especially within Gothic-inspired cathedrals, art served not just aesthetic purposes but was also a medium for conveying religious messages to the masses. Every colour in these carefully designed stained glass windows carried a religious meaning. One of the most striking examples of motifs processed into massive stained-glass windows is the famous rose window of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Renaissance: The Introduction of Realism and Depth in Painting

(15th century – 17th century)Filippo Brunelleschi’s discovery of single-point perspective in the early 15th century was one of the most revolutionary developments in art history. The sense of realism and depth in paintings became possible through this perspective. One of the perfect examples of this movement is Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. The Renaissance was a period where human anatomy was studied in detail, with science and art progressing hand in hand.

Baroque and Rococo: The Era of Glamorous Details

(17th century – 18th century)In the Baroque art period of the 17th century, where emotional intensity was at the forefront, movement and dramatic use of light were emphasized. The goal was to create a strong dramatic impact on the viewer. Caravaggio's use of light and Bernini's sculptures are prime examples of this. The Rococo period, which reflected the aristocratic class’s influence on art through detail and grandeur, emerged in the 18th century, capturing attention with its ornate and elegant style.

Modern Art: What You Feel, Not What You See

(19th century – early 20th century)Claude Monet and his contemporaries, in the 19th century, introduced a new approach to art by experimenting with the idea of ‘capturing the moment.’ Monet’s Impression, Sunrise became emblematic of a break from traditional art. Although critics initially remarked that this work seemed ‘unfinished,’ the Impressionist movement had already set the stage for a profound transformation in the art world. This movement allowed artists to express not how they saw the world, but how they felt about it.

Contemporary Art: In Fact, everything is Art

(mid-20th century to present)Contemporary art encompasses everything from politics and social issues to current events and personal experiences. With new forms such as performance art, installation art, and video, artists now have a wider range of tools to reach their audiences. Moreover, the influence of digital technology has become a significant force in connecting with art enthusiasts.