These beautiful flower studies were drawn by Dutch painter Jan van Huysum from 1697 to 1749. He specialized in still lifes and he aimed for his paintings to be as realistic as possible. He was so serious about protecting his techniques that he refused to accept any students and even forbade anyone - including his brothers who were also artists - to enter his...
One of the problems with contemporary culture is the importance placed on originality. Many writers and artists strive to create something deemed original and when they can’t they take the easy way out, the pessimistic: “there’s nothing left to create, everything has been done already”. Now, of course there’s nothing new to create. But that shouldn’t be an excuse for lame art, should...
One of the most enjoyable experiences to me is finishing a book. For some, is buying a book, for others is starting it, for some crazies is beginning Chapter 5. I like all those things too, but nothing beats that final page rush. I'd say I have more or less three common but different reactions when I finish a book. The "I'm not...
Ecce Hommo by Antonio Ciseri A little bit of history Date: 1871 Located in the Gallery of Modern Art, Florence. The title of the painting "Ecce Hommo" is Latin for "Behold the Man":...
An epic tale of love and revenge Why do we watch movies? I mean, isn't it amazing that we pay to go in a dark room filled with strangers to watch representations of made up stories? A while ago we were talking about the importance of literature and, if you think about it, people have been telling stories since the beginning of...
Hey guys, I have a quick announcement. Everybody in the conference room. Sorry, I've been watching way too much The Office lately. Anyway, I started a style blog called Skirt Bouquet which will cover fashion inspiration and all things stylish. I'll be posting there on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays so there are no changes here in The Culture Enthusiast. You can visit the new...
