The Importance Of Baroque Art

Baroque is a term assigned to a European artistic expression style which spanned from the late 16th century to the late 18th century. Today it remains a popular era in art, literature, architecture, and music. The Roman Catholic Church was one of the largest supporters of Baroque art, as it served to oppose the relative minimalism and somberness of Protestant art of the time. As is typical, Baroque art was a reflection of the ongoing religious and other cultural changes that were occurring in Europe at the time. Although it embraces a variety of art styles Baroque is mainly characterized by grandeur, realism, and emotional drama. In order to interest the masses, the Roman Catholic Church realized that these traits would allow sanctioned art to appeal to the greater masses. Art from this era is eye-catching and is particularly good at drawing the interest of its audience. By drawing on the physical senses, artists induce emotions in their audience which helps to create a connection with viewers.

Emotional drama, realism, and grandeur are primary characteristics throughout the broad variety that is baroque art, and every piece has been influenced by all three in some way. Artists’ choices of content lend

In paintings it seems as though the audience could potentially be looking at a photograph. Proportions are typically very accurate, and the renderings look lifelike. Idealism tempers the idea of realism. While still quite lifelike idealism often involves the simplification of background details. It shows a more perfect version of reality, or an exaggeration to increase the aesthetic value. There are cultural and temporal aspects that predispose a certain region to lean toward one or the other end of the spectrum. Since idealism was also prevalent during the Renaissance, it is interesting to note that it remains particularly common in many biblically themed