Middle Ages vs. Renaissance Art Periods
The shift from the middle/medieval age to the renaissance period was characterized by multiple changes. After the end of the catholic reign, individualism and humanism was born. As a result, people became more aware of themselves by changing the way they viewed themselves and other things around them. By the end of the renaissance period, a lot had gradually but significantly changed. Due to changes in the way of thinking and living, the field of art was among the areas that went through a great deal of evolution. Renaissance art was created under increased awareness of nature using a more individualistic view of man, unlike those from the middles ages.
One major difference can be seen in the form and the purpose of the arts created during the two periods. During the medieval period, the catholic church was still a major imposing force and commissioned all the artwork. Much of these were found in churches and monasteries and took the forms of sculptures, painted pottery, murals, and mosaics. The main purpose of art during this period was to teach religion to those who could not read and write. Renaissance art, on the other hand, was more advanced and took the forms of stained-glass windows, sculptures, manuscripts, paintings, and tapestries, with the main purpose showing the importance of people and nature.
Another significant difference is that renaissance art paid more attention and details on the human body than medieval art. With medieval sculptures and paintings, there was very little depth and focus given to the art. Even the writings on the parchment showed little or no resemblance to the actual text. The paintings also consisted of different bright colors, which made the paintings appear exaggerated and unreal. Renaissance art, in comparison, gave a little bit more attention to the body. A change in perspective and discovery of the light and shadow effect made the paintings look more three-dimensional and realistic.
One more notable difference can be portrayed in the emotions of paintings during the two periods. The art and paintings during the middle ages were more focused on religion and the death of Christ. They were characterized by stiff sculptures appearing to have very little or no movement. Subjects also seemed emotionless and often looking unrealistic. Renaissance art, on the other hand, was more focused on human beauty and nature, and therefore the sculptures and statues resembled actual humans. The paintings were less religious and depicted people living life and having emotions, and one could see and tell the feelings of the sculptures.
