Proserpina

Proserpina isolation by Bernini.  This is made from marble. I was fascinated by it the first time I saw a photograph of it. I think it is perfect. I absolutely ran to it in the Museum. I think there is hardly a day goes by that I don’t look at it. I took around 125 photos of it because I wanted you to see it as I did. 

It is the most objectively beautiful creation that I know.  Bernini did it between 1621-22 with hammer, chisel and hand tools. 

It is important to consider what did Bernini want the observer to think and more importantly, what did he want the observer to “feel”. 

Many modern artists create a brand. I feel no goodness comes from many of the artists of today. The artists that I support all are trying to give the viewer an emotion. When I look at a piece, I immediately think of what is the strongest emotion that first comes to mind. Is it about the skill of the artist, and the subject matter, or is it about the artist?  

I never look at Picasso and feel a thrill. I wonder what the fuss is all about. Van Gogh gives me a similar feeling. Caravaggio on the other hand draws my attention to the subject matter at hand. But no artist captivates like Bernini.  His sculpture is legendary, and I can only imagine what he might have created but for all of the architectural projects he took on. Fountains, churches, Vatican’s Baldacchin and the Chair of Saint Peter. Bernini’s imprint is on Rome obvious and glorious. 

This is the true aim of the greatest masters of art.  What could they make you feel?  Can you forget just for a moment and rise above our daily problems and challenges?  For me the answer is yes.  I look at this to be amazed, but it also gives a brief uplift of spirit.

I encourage you to find artists of today that give you a positive feeling, or a feeling of awe at their skill, and give them a spotlight. Thank you for reading.