So you want to paint like Rembrandt? Should you?!!

Should an artist aim to develop his/her own style?

Skill and artistry are not the same. Developing a style is what makes the difference.



 History and the recent example of Odd Nerdrum are proof of this point.



Honest copies of the great masters and paintings made "in the style of" Old Masters require tremendous skills and part of a sound education in the visual arts. They help an artist survive financially, but are these true art in the pure sense? As much as I myself value it and like seeing this, I think this actiivty is not itself art.



Why would the world want 2 Rembrandts? Or 2 of Van Gogh?

Most likely, the second version will not be remembered as an artists.

Dali's mustache still makes it to the news!

Art and Politics...do they mix? History has the answer!

 

Art and politics have interacted since the beginnings of humanity as a species. For some artists, it has been a catapulting event into fame and wealth, beginning with the times when artists had patrons. Artists have worked for powerful people like kings, popes, cardinals and rich influential families (e.g. the Medici!) and painted them to create a mangnanimous image and, in so doing, increase or maintain their power. Artists have also denounced injustice and triggered revolutionary thoughts in populations throughout history, most notably (I think!) in France. It still happens today.

Although I try to avoid such theme in my paintings, it takes a strong determination not to paint about it because I feel strongly about political issues ( I just keep my mouth shut!). Lately, I've been reconsidering the idea...Visit my video in Youtube (above) and leave a comment...I want to know what you think!  :)
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