READING & RESEARCH

This summer, I delved deep into the world of the Renaissance, exploring the lives of its artists through a blend of detailed research and captivating fiction inspired by their work. From historical accounts to imaginative stories, I immersed myself in the era to better understand and share the brilliance of these creative geniuses. Here are some of the resources I explored (and some I plan to explore soon!) to help you get started on your own journey.

BOOKS

  1. Michelangelo and the Pope’s Ceiling by Ross King
    This book dives into the story behind Michelangelo’s creation of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. It's not just about the art but also the drama, politics, and intense pressure Michelangelo faced. Though it’s fiction, you definitely feel like you’re getting a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most famous works of art in history.

  2. The Lives of the Artists by Giorgio Vasari
    Written by someone who actually knew many of the Renaissance artists - and actually invented the term “Renaissance” - this book is a collection of mini-biographies. Vasari shares fascinating stories and insights about the lives and works of some of the greatest artists of the time, from Michelangelo to Raphael. It’s a must-read if you want to understand the personalities behind the masterpieces.

  3. Painting and Experience in Fifteenth-Century Italy: A Primer in the Social History of Pictorial Style by Michael Baxandall
    This one’s a bit more academic, but it’s super interesting. Baxandall explores how art was shaped by the society and culture of the time. It’s not just about what the paintings look like but why they look that way— including the hidden codes and meanings in Renaissance art.

  4. Influences by Mary Quinlan-McGrath
    This book takes a deep dive into how astrology and astronomy influenced Renaissance art and architecture. It’s fascinating to see how the stars and planets played a role in shaping some of the most beautiful buildings and artworks of the time. It’s connects the dots between science, art, and history.

  5. The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant
    This one’s a novel, so it’s more about getting lost in a story set during the Renaissance. It follows a young woman in Florence who gets caught up in the intrigue and danger of the time, all while discovering her own love for art. It’s a perfect blend of history and fiction, with a strong female lead to boot.

BOOK REVIEWS

ONLINE RESOURCES

  1. Khan Academy’s Smarthistory: Accessible, scholarly videos and articles on Renaissance artists, providing context on their personal lives and relationships.

  2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: Detailed essays on various Renaissance artists, including insights into their lives and works.

  3. The National Gallery of Art (DC), The National Gallery (London) and The Uffizi Gallery (Florence): Extensive online resources and catalogs that provide biographical information on the artists whose works they house.

  4. Google Arts & Culture: High-resolution images of artworks and information about the lives of the artists.

PODCASTS

  1. "Rebuilding The Renaissance"
    Hosted by Dr. Rocky Ruggiero, a Renaissance expert and art historian, this podcast offers deep dives into the art, architecture, and culture of the Renaissance period. Dr. Ruggiero covers the lives of famous Renaissance artists, providing detailed analyses of their works and the historical context in which they were created. It’s a fantastic resource for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Renaissance and its lasting impact on art and culture.

  2. "The Renaissance: A History of Renaissance Art"
    Denis Byrd focuses specifically on the Renaissance period in this podcast, offering deep dives into the lives and works of the artists who shaped this era. It’s informative and well-researched, making it a great resource for learning about the Renaissance.

  3. "Art Detective"
    Dr. Janina Ramirez hosts this podcast, exploring the stories behind famous artworks and the artists who created them. It often covers Renaissance art, providing a mix of art history and engaging storytelling.

  4. "The Art History Babes"
    This podcast is hosted by four art history graduates who discuss various topics in art history, including episodes on Renaissance artists. Their discussions are both informative and fun, making art history more accessible.

SERIES, DOCUMENTARIES & FILMS

  1. "The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance": This PBS documentary offers a dramatized look at the rise of the Medici family, major patrons of Renaissance art. It’s a great way to see how art, politics, and history intertwined in Florence during the Renaissance, featuring figures like Cosimo de' Medici and early glimpses of artists like Leonardo da Vinci.

  2. "Leonardo": This series offers a captivating portrayal of Leonardo da Vinci's life, blending historical facts with dramatized storytelling. It explores his early years, his incredible talents, and the challenges he faced.

  3. "Michelangelo: Love and Death": This documentary provides an intimate look at the life and work of Michelangelo, one of the most iconic artists of the Renaissance. It explores his masterpieces, the places he lived and worked, and the personal struggles that shaped his art.

  4. "Caravaggio: The Soul and the Blood": This documentary dives into the life and art of Caravaggio, exploring his controversy, violence, and passion for his craft. Though the documentary is visually and artistically focused, it does touch on the darker aspects of Caravaggio's life, such as his criminal record. It is best suited for mature teens who are comfortable with these themes.