Art Articles

Article by Flora

The history of art is full of mermaid splashes, siren songs, and lost treasures recovered by the daughters of the sea. This mythological creature, who loves showing her tail in many cultures that dwelled by the sea, inspires artists and whispers creative ideas into the ears of those who listen.

Yet, as far as I could have seen, there is confusion about the sirens and mermaids. Sometimes, sirens and mermaids are confused for each other. They indeed share a similar skillset and have the same attitudes against sailors who breach their seas. Yet they looked different in Ancient Greek art.

Article by Flora

John William Godward was a Victorian Neo-Classicist who lived at the turn of the Twentieth Century. His paintings depict life in Ancient Rome and sometimes in Greece, such as Sappho. As a student of the ancient world, I have always been fascinated by Godward’s art. His paintings are almost photoshoots taken two thousand years ago. Godward’s attention to detail in dresses and profound knowledge of Roman architecture re-creates the ancient world.

Article by Flora

The Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is known through Xenophon and Plato’s works.

As the figure at the very beginning of philosophy who met a very untimely and unfortunate end, Socrates and his life have been central themes in classical art.

Article by Flora

“Sing, O goddess, of the anger of Achilles, son of Peleus; he brought countless ills upon the Achaeans.”

Homer, Iliad, Book 1

Achilles is known as the greatest hero of the Trojan War. Yet, he owes his greatness to a trick that did not fully work as intended until the end.

Achilles is the son of the Nereid Thetis and a mortal man, King Peleus, also known as the Old Man of the Sea. Nereids are daughters of Poseidon; they are of divine descent and immortal beings. The Nereids are akin to the Gods; they can visit Olympus and stay very close to the gods. Yet, Peleus, Achilles’ father, was no god; he was a mortal man, so his son was mortal as well.

Article by Flora

Nineteenth-century artist John William Waterhouse was inspired by the tales and myths of the Ancient Greek world. Circe, a curious figure from Greek mythology, was one of his favorites to study. He made three paintings with Circe.


Article by Flora

Astrology has always been a point of interest in the history of art. In today’s popular culture and social media circles, Astrology is a trendy area accessible to almost everyone. This was not so before the twentieth century, it used to be practiced and admired by a tiny portion of the society.

Astrology is a technique that has been developed since very early ages. It is a tool to determine the quality of time. In the past, kings and queens consulted their astrologers to select the best times to decide or start a process. In a modern sense, Astrology can also benefit self-analysis and self-improvement. It is also a way to give meaning to the universe, which allows us to extend our imagination beyond our daily experience.

Article by Flora

In Greek mythology, Hermes is the messenger of gods, the god that is closest to human and daily life. Hermes delivers messages from Gods to mortals, and he frequently appears to humans to give them a helping hand. In Ancient Greece, Hermes was revered as the patron of teachers, writing, and oration. He was also a patron of trade, all the comings and goings of daily life. He also brought people together, ruled social gatherings, and helped lovers meet at the end. He was the guard of the ways, paths, and trade routes.

Article by Flora

The Seasons is a set of paintings by Alphonse Mucha from the late nineteenth century. The Seasons is a four-piece work, each painting representing a season of the year. The beautiful Art Nouveau style with vibrant colors brings a memorable and delightful work of art and imagination.

The first set of The Seasons, made in 1896, was so beautiful that two more sets were ordered in 1897 and 1900. In this article, we will study the first set.

Article by Flora

“Welcome to the house of Carl Larsson and his spouse!” are the words that will welcome you at the entrance of one of the world-famous living memories of art, love, and life. The house where Karin and Carl Larsson decorated, lived and created their works is named Lilla Hyttnäs, The Little Cottage. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Europe and if you are interested in Arts and Crafts, it is a paradise beyond time.

Article by Miki

The year is 1482, and Da Vinci moves to Milan to work at Sforza’s court. He had previously sent a letter to Ludovico Sforza explaining how he would be helpful. Surprisingly, he had barely mentioned that he was a painter and sculptor but had concentrated on explaining how he intended to help him as a military engineer. Yet nowadays, most people know Leonardo as a painter and sculptor, but few know about his work outside of these areas. However, what most people know is not all, because his inquisitive nature carried him beyond the realms of the artist.