The quest for great art has been a central pursuit throughout human history and continues right up to today. In ancient civilisations, such as Greece and Rome, art was deeply intertwined with religion and politics, exemplified by the grandeur of the architecture and the idealised sculptures of gods and athletes. Architecture and art that continues to inspire us today.
Religious Beginnings
During the Middle Ages, art was predominantly religious. Churches and private chapels were adorned with extraordinary frescoes and illuminated manuscripts reflecting divine inspiration and reverence. The most significant example is that created by maestro Giotto di Bondone – The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua – completed in 1305. Giotto’s figures are solidly three dimensional with gestures based on close observation. Giotto uses colour to create not only aesthetic beauty, but also to create moral and thematic connections between characters and their scenes. In this way, colour helps viewers understand the chapel as an interconnected whole – a moral story flowing through each scene, culminating in the Last Judgment. Real departure from earlier Byzantine styles. And so, Giotto continues to inspire artists and historians alike.
20th Century
The 19th and 20th centuries brought radical changes, with Impressionism breaking away from traditional practices. Modernism began challenging conventional notions of art through abstract and conceptual works by artists from Munch, Schiele to Kandinsky and onwards to Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keefe.
Diversity In Today’s Art World
In contemporary times, the search for great art is marked by diversity and inclusivity. Digital art, installations, and performance art push boundaries, reflecting current societal issues and technological advancements. And because of this, the quest for great art is an ever-evolving journey. It reflects humanity’s perpetual desire to explore, express, and understand the complexities of the human experience. It contributes to every aspect of how we live. And long may it continue.
My Personal Quest
My personal quest is to push the boundaries to foster and grow an increasingly talented pool of artists. That’s why I’m always looking out and engaging with the art I love. New arrivals to our Life: Full Colour tribe are Gethin Evans, Emily-Jane Hillman and Lucas Davey. Each with their own unique style. I’m looking forward to introducing art enthusiasts to their work alongside highly talented resident artists Peter Mattinson, Jill Jones, Dermod Ruddock, Andrew Jenkin and Alison Ross.
And the quest for great art continues across Wales and the rest of the world…watch this space!
Words: Sara McKee
Feature image: Painting by Gethin Evans included in National Eisteddfod 2024
