Gothic Architecture

East-end-of-the-Basilica-Church-of-Saint-Denis-900x597Throughout history, architecture has been the most prominent outward expression which defines an era. Whether it was the pyramids of Egypt or the ritualistic sites such as Stonehenge or Chichen Itza, they tell the story of the times.

These towering edifices of magnificent proportion naturally did not have the advantage of modern tools and equipment. Using ingenious structural components instead of overhead cranes, workers labored daily lifting heavy stone and putting each into place with brute strength and simple tools. It was not uncommon for an individual to labor his entire life as a construction worker and not see the finished project. A little different than today, when you can get an emergency tree removal Fayetteville NC done in under a few days or build a new house in just a few months.

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It Didn’t Start with American Gothic

American-Gothic-Painting

In 1930, Grant Wood painted one of the most iconic paintings known in the Gothic art community. Widely viewed, it has been acknowledged as an outstanding representation of the Gothic style. It is recognizable to most of the world.

An American artist trained in Germany, Wood was visiting another young artist John Sharp in Eldon, Iowa. One day while cruising the countryside, Wood noticed a farmhouse built in the Carpenter Gothic architectural style. It belonged to Charles and Catherine Dibble. They built it themselves on a ninety-three-acre plot of land. The local roofing company was there helping Charles put on a new roof. That was the day Wood first took notice of the modest 504 square foot home.

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Artist Review – Handsome Little Devils

HLD 1Summer is the season for outdoor art festivals as my good friend Paul Maddalena says.  One of the most popular in our area is the Blue Creek Arts Festival, which is usually held the first weekend in July.  Artists apply from all across the US and are hand selected only to seat a mere 250 coveted spots.  Each booth is a celebration of outstanding, unique creativity.

All mediums are represented.  Photographers, painters, mixed media, metal, wood and stone with one sculptor using a towing service to carefully bring in and place an enormous, stunning piece at the entrance of this years’ outdoor exhibit.

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A New Look At An Old Art

Early GothicI realize that Gothic art is not for everyone. It is perhaps the most misunderstood form of artistic expression ever produced in the art world. You won’t find this kind of art on the Target Digital Marketing Company IG Page but if you do some searching on Google you will come across some outstanding pieces of art work. I have seen comments from some of my readers that have the impression that Goth arrived on the scene with the advent of black nail polish however it has been around for much longer.

While I appreciate the recent resurgence of interest, and adore many of the more contemporary artists, the works of great artists like Giotto di Bondone who dates back to the 13th and 14th century for example, still set my artistic nature ablaze. Nonetheless, the new kids on the block showing up in their long, black, stretch limousines for showings are the ones selling from our gallery walls.

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