aquarelle und pastelle
Norbert Prangenberg was an abstract painter, sculptor, and engraver. Though he had no formal training and did not fully engage with art until his 30s, Prangenberg did finally come up with a style that was uniquely his own, not fitting comfortably into the neo-expressionist or neo-geo movements of his time, in the 1970s and 1980s. At this time, he was considered a major figure in contemporary German art. Though he got his start with abstract paintings, he also became known for making sculptures of all sizes; and while his work initially appears abstract, the titles given sometimes allude to the human body or a landscape. As a trained gold- and silversmith, as well as a glassblower, he always showed an attention to materials and how they could be physically engaged with. He was interested in how his own two hands could affect the painting or sculpture's surface. Traces of the artist's hand appear literally throughout his entire oeuvre, before he lost the battle with liver cancer in 2012.
Carl Maria Nicolaus Hummel was a distinguished German landscape painter and etcher, renowned for his delicate representations of the natural world. Born in Weimar in 1821, Hummel embarked on his artistic journey under the guidance of Friedrich Preller at the Fürstliche freie Zeichenschule Weimar starting in 1841. His rich legacy is shaped by extensive travels across Europe, capturing the essence of each locale with a keen eye for detail and mood.
Hummel's artistry is marked by his adept use of light and texture, which brings scenes to life with a vibrancy that transcends time. His works, such as the serene "Valley of the Mills, near Amalfi" and the contemplative "Sky Study (Sunset)", showcase his skill in marrying color and form to reflect both the tranquility and the dramatic interplay of natural landscapes.
For art collectors and connoisseurs, Hummel's paintings are a testament to the romantic spirit of 19th-century art. His paintings are prominently featured in prestigious institutions across Northern Europe, including the Musée de la Vie Romantique in Paris. Each piece serves as a window into the historical and cultural narratives of the time, making them invaluable additions to any collection.
Renowned for his meticulous approach and the emotional depth of his work, Hummel's contributions to the world of art continue to inspire and captivate audiences. His ability to capture the sublime beauty of nature makes his work an enduring treasure in the landscape genre of the 19th century.
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Carlo Maratta, an Italian painter, was a prominent figure in the Roman school of art during the late 17th century. Known for his classical approach to Baroque painting, Carlo Maratta's works were deeply influenced by the styles of Raphael and Andrea Sacchi, blending classical grandeur with Baroque expressivity. His training under Sacchi and subsequent exposure to Pietro da Cortona's coloristic style significantly shaped his artistic development.
Carlo Maratta's career flourished with a series of public and official commissions, making him a leading painter in Rome, especially after Bernini's death in 1682. His portfolio includes religious paintings, altarpieces, portraits, and fresco cycles, with a notable emphasis on paintings of the Madonna and Child, which reinterpreted High Renaissance motifs. His work was highly esteemed across Europe, influencing not only Italian art but also attracting the attention of English visitors on the Grand Tour.
One of Carlo Maratta's significant contributions to the art world was his involvement in painting restoration towards the end of his career, including works by Raphael and Carracci. This phase underscored his deep connection to the classical art tradition. Maratta passed away in Rome in 1713, leaving behind a legacy that continued to be celebrated in art history.
For art enthusiasts, collectors, and experts, Carlo Maratta's work offers a window into the transition between the Baroque and the emerging Rococo style, embodying a blend of dynamism and classical restraint. His paintings, many of which remain in situ in Roman churches, offer a testament to his enduring influence on Baroque classicism.
To stay updated on exhibitions and insights into Carlo Maratta's works, art aficionados are encouraged to subscribe for updates, ensuring access to the latest research and opportunities to view his celebrated works in museums and galleries around the world.
