When referring to the term Cubism, one often reflects upon Pablo Picasso, the renown Spanish painter famous for such pieces as “Guernica” and “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.”  However, one must not overlook the other great founder of this movement (who worked closely with Picasso), Georges Braque, creator of such works as “The Guéridon” and “Fruit Dish and Glass.”

A defining characteristic of Cubist works are the seemingly broken up, then reassembled objects which produce multiple perceptions.  As clearly visible in his paintings, Braque was a master of complimenting geometry with simultaneous perspective.  He stunningly used the properties of light to produce amazing effects.  For example, In the painting  “Violin and Candlestick”, a collage of numerous straight lines and brief curves come together to produce obscure, yet distinguishable images of these items.

From now until November 30^th, Austrian art historian Dieter Buchhart is running the Acquavella show, featuring 42 collages and paintings to celebrate the French Modernist who has been so overshadowed by his fellow innovator Picasso.  Unfortunately, Picasso and Braque’s collaboration did not last for ever; eventually they parted ways as Braque flirted with other types and styles. However, Barques’ imprint on modernism, specifically with Cubism remains evident today. One can check out some of his paintings here.

Are you an admirer of other cultures?  Here is another great idea for a class trip!

For eight years, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has been missing a key element to its vast collection of pieces from all over the continent.  Falsely believed to have been closed as a result of the 9/11 attacks on our country, the Islamic Art galleries on the second floor were veiled due to construction on the Greek and Roman exhibits below it.  For the past 3 years, a tremendous effort has been made to revamp the exhibit, which will now showcase over a thousand priceless treasures for visitors to experience.  In order to make this possible, the museum had to get in contact with over 20 countries and 40 Islamic art scholars.

I believe the Islamic exhibit will be a great step forward in exposing Americans to Islamic culture, and might even extinguish ignorant attitudes towards Muslims in America.  There will be a plethora of pieces on display far from religious in origin; in fact, many of the pieces represent secular art created by Muslims for non-Muslim clienteles.

After witnessing such a wonderful cultural display at the Jewish Museum this past weekend, why not head over to the Met to experience Islamic tradition next?   The exhibit opens November 1st.  The article can be found here, along with a sneak peek look at what one can expect!