European Art History Through the Ages

European Art History

• The Gothic period is characterized by towering cathedrals and intricate stained-glass designs, reflecting the Middle Ages.
• The Renaissance period saw a renewed interest in humanism, science, and exploration, exemplified in masterpieces by artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
• The Romanticism era is marked by bold, emotional expressions, while Surrealism is characterized by dreamlike scenes.
• European art often employs symbols, allegories, and metaphors to convey meaning, with each element telling its own story.
• Common symbology includes white for purity and skulls for mortality.
• Modern European art continues to draw from its rich past while engaging with contemporary issues.

Contemporary European Art

• Street art in cities like Berlin and London expresses social and political commentaries.
• Digital art forms and mixed media installations at festivals and galleries demonstrate innovation in European art.

American Art History

• The ancient petroglyphs etched into rocks by Native Americans mark the beginning of the American artistic journey.
• The 20th century saw a shift towards abstract expressionism, led by artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko.