The art movement known as “Baroque” began in Italy in the late 1500s. However, by the mid-17th century, the movement had succeeded in spreading across Europe, and then flourished in colonial South America in the 1700s. Many Baroque artists used their works to contrast the orderly style of most Renaissance art. With its extensive detail, many curved lines, strong contrast between light and darkness, and rich colors, the art of this time was realistic, but still able to convey a strong sense of emotion and appeal to the senses. Since the Baroque movement took place during the Counter-Reformation, the Catholic Church took advantage of the art’s ability to invoke emotion, and many churches began using Baroque architecture, sculpture, and paintings to promote religion. The architecture included many columns and arches and very little harsh rectangular shapes and edges. The Baroque sculptors emphasized movement and attention to form in their sculptures
Some famous Baroque artists include Peter Paul Rubens, Caravaggio, Bernini, Annibale Carracci, and Rembrandt. They all used dramatic ornamentations and conveyed energy and movements in their work. The Baroque movement died out in the 18th century and was soon replaced by Rococo art movement.
The Fall of Phaeton, Peter Paul Rubens
Works Consulted:
“The Baroque Art Movement: Artists and Artwork of the 17th Century.” Empty Easel. N.p., n.d. Web. 23
Sept. 2009. <http://emptyeasel.com/2007/10/30/
the-baroque-art-movement-artists-and-artwork-of-the-17th-century/>.
“Baroque Art Movement.” Art Education. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2009.
<http://www.arteducation.com.au/art-movements/baroque.php>.
“Baroque Art.” Toffs World. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2009. <http://www.toffsworld.com/
art_artists_painters/baroque_art_movement.htm>.
“Art History: Baroque.” World Wide Arts Resources. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2009.
<http://wwar.com/masters/movements/baroque.html>.
