Classical Art: Ancient to Modern

Classical Art: Ancient to Modern

Classical art isn't just togas, architecture, empires, and philosophers. It's a timeless depiction of ancient values in modern art everywhere.

What Is Neoclassical Art?

Neoclassical art isn't just ancient, it’s a movement that took classical ideals and reimagined them for a new world. Emerging in the 18th century, neoclassicism has brought classics into a new spotlight, carrying into the 21st century.

Some key features of neoclassical art include:

• Tight brushstrokes

• Earthy, natural colors

• Bold, dramatic poses

• Emphasis on classical themes such as pride, honor, and power

Basically, if it looks like it could belong in Ancient Rome, it probably has some neoclassicism.

Jacques-Louis David

Jacques-Louis David was one of the most iconic neoclassical painters of the 18th century. He used classical style to tell history. One of his most famous works is “Napoleon Crossing the Alps” (1801). In this series of paintings, Napoleon sits confidently on a horse, surrounded by wind and energy, power practically radiating from the canvas. It’s not a portrait, but an interpretation of Napoleon's leadership.

Kehinde Wiley

Fast-forward to today, and you’ll find artists still drawing from classical inspiration with a twist. Kehinde Wiley, is a contemporary artist known for his vibrant, powerful portraits of African American individuals. Wiley flips the script by placing African American figures in poses and settings inspired by classical and European masterpieces. One of his most talked-about pieces is “Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps” (2005), a direct reference to David’s famous painting. But instead of Napoleon, Wiley paints an African American man, dressed in modern streetwear, on a similarly majestic horse. Wiley’s work challenges traditional art history while celebrating the beauty and strength of underrepresented communities, through neoclassicism.

Classics Are Still Cool

Classics are all around us today! It may seem like it's all ancient history, but in reality, contemporary artists are still working to preserve the rich and informative culture it presents. So the next time you see an ancient-looking piece of art, with a modern twist, remember to seize the classics!

Sources:

Alder. “Napoleon Crossing the Alps Painting - Its Place in Art History.” Art History with Alder, 9 Apr. 2021,

“Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps.” Brooklyn Museum, 2015, www.brooklynmuseum.org/objects/169803.arthistorywithalder.com/napoleon-crossing-the-alps-place-in-art-history/.

Pollitt, Ben. “Jacques-Louis David, Napoleon Crossing the Alps – Smarthistory.” Smarthistory.org, SmartHistory, 7 Jan. 2016, smarthistory.org/jacques-louis-david-napoleon-crossing-the-alps/.