Artists can inspire a movement or inspire a generation. Here are some of the most influential artist throughout history who have made an impact on those around them.
Leonardo Da Vinci:
Known for more than just art, Leonardo Da Vinci was an inventor known for exploring fields such as science, medicine, and air travel. As a painter, his iconic pieces include the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, or the Vitruvian Man. Each of these works explore humanity, religion, and science that made Da Vinci such an influential member of the art community. Michelangelo Buonarroti:
Most famous for his Sistine chapel painting, this artist was also well known for his sculptures as well.
Vincent Van Gogh:
Van Gogh received little acclaim during his life and his paintings were appreciated posthumously. One of the most unique aspects of his work were the personal touch seen such has his self-portraits.
Pablo Picasso:
Picasso was known for his passion and redefining the way spectators view and appreciate art. His work includes painting and sculptures and progress through time, including his famous abstract works.
Salvador Dali:
Known for his surrealist paintings, his works are filled with symbolism. His ideas combine reality distorted to impose commentary on popular societal ideals.
M.C. Escher:
With works heavily based in mathematics and patterns, Escher’s work explores nature, landscape, and structures to explore symmetry and the idea of infinity.
Jackson Pollock:
While some may see simply paint splatters, others see the intricate unification of lines and colors that make a paradox of deliberate randomness.
Frida Kahlo:
A powerful figure in Latin American art, Kahlo is known for her surreal self-portraits which explore beauty and power with bold colors.
Andy Warhol:
A modern art icon, Warhol mixes pop-art of contemporary figures and mass media to create a bold statement. His influence is profound and his experimentation is being emulated by many upcoming artists today.
Banksy:
More closely related to Andy Warhol, Banksy uses graphic prints in a graffiti nature to express commentary on society and values. His identity is kept secret, adding more mystery to his motives and skills. Many street artists have been inspired by the movement and by Banksy.
Each of these artists have made an impact on the world of art, but the best thing is that they each use different mediums and different perspectives to get their message across. No matter the way you create, you can make an impact through your art and your goals.
Sources:
https://news.artnet.com/art-world/time-100-most-influential-people-2016-478688
http://www.graphicdesigndegreehub.com/30-most-influential-women-artists-alive-today/
http://www.complex.com/style/2012/04/the-100-most-influential-artists-of-the-complex-decade/
http://www.theartwolf.com/articles/most-important-painters.htm