UDemonstrate knowledge of visual forms - Essay Example

WHAT I LEARNED FROM THE ACTIVITY From the activity, I learned that mannerism was a change in renaissance art in accordance to time rather than it being a revolutionary development. Mannerism was characterised by a unique artificiality on the surface. This concept was both a pronounced and deliberate illustration of stylishness. After the high renaissance, many wondered where art was heading. The answer was mannerism. As such, mannerism was an art movement that came immediately after the high renaissance in the 16th century1.

The 16th century was a quite interesting time for art. Many great renaissance artists had done credible classical works of art in Europe. These renaissance art no doubt inspired and intimidated the next generation of artists in equal measure. From the activity, I figured that the change in style between high renaissance and mannerism was not very distinct. However, there were unique characteristics that tended to differentiate mannerist work. In mannerist work, there is a clear elongation of the torso and neck in figurative paintings or portraits.

Sometimes, the legs and arms were strangely fluid in these portraits too. Symbolism was the second mannerism element depicted in paintings. The artists would employ visual allegories to appeal to a certain wealthy audience. Lastly, unlike the high renaissance, I learned that mannerist art was mostly focussed on displaying emotion.BibliographyMurray, Linda. The High Renaissance and Mannerism: Italy, the North and Spain, 1500-1600. Thames and Hudson, 1977.