Defined by Leonardo da Vinci as 'standing between darkness and light,' shadows are and always have been everywhere, but they are not always depicted in art. The origins of the depiction of shadows in art, will be traced, but they were rarely shown in Classical, Early Christian and medieval art. The portrayal of shadows really comes into its own in Renaissance Italy - linked with the immense advances in scientific study and new learning (especially optics). Shadows can be used to give bodily and other forms a three-dimensionality hitherto not achieved, or as the actual depiction of cast shadows, sometimes with symbolic meaning. Shadows were used to bring a psychological or even magical resonance to Renaissance painting. And the use of shadows in art as mysterious, ethereal or even divine has continued to the present day. Accredited Lecturer Dr Valerie Shrimplin tells us more.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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The Arts Society Thames Estuary have awarded a grant to Southend In Sight who support young people with visual impairments and their families. The grant will be used to purchase art materials so that the children can produce and artwork to be displayed locally.
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Comments
A very interesting talk, I had not really noted shadow as a key element in some familiar works, this helped me to look in a different way.
Fascinating talk, something new to look for in paintings and photography.
excellent lecture so enjoying the Advent calendar
A fascinating lecture delivered in a very human way - thank you, Valerie.
I am learning something new every day. I really don't want these little gems to end. An insightful lecture well presented and illustrated.
Wonderful, I will look at paintings in a different way
A fascinating lecture. I wasn't much aware of shadows in art before but now i will be looking out for them. Thank you so much.
I found this lecture fascinating. I think I have always looked at light and taken shadows for granted, but now I am noticing the shadows here, in my kitchen……
Thank you.
Another fascinating and informative lecture. Will miss these gems.
Thank you for a very interesting and inspiring lecture from a wonderful speaker. I was completely engaged with her and loved the great illustrations too.