The Renaissance period has been noted as the cultural movement spanning the 14^th to 17^th centuries. From its start in Italy, the impact of Renaissance art, science, philosophy and literature spread across Europe in the Late Middle Ages, leaving a lasting impression among societies of the world. It was seen as a cultural “rebirth” and a nostalgic look back on earlier Classical periods. The Renaissance saw the rise of some of the world’s most celebrated “Renaissance Men” such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, and equally saw the development of new ideas and beliefs such as humanism. These contributing factors inevitably shaped the future society of Europe, drawing a close to the Middle Ages and paving a path for the Modern Era.

Renaissance art is perhaps one of the most significant contributions of the period. From new painting techniques to innovative ideas and perspectives, the art of the Late Middle Ages has had one of the greatest impacts the modern art world has ever seen. Perhaps the most significant feature of Renaissance art is the use of linear perspective, for it influenced the trend of realism. Giotto di Bondone was credited with the first use of the perspective technique, but it was later brought to light by Brunelleschi and Alberti. In relation to the scientific progression of the Renaissance period, the study of light, shadow and perspective greatly influenced painters of the time, and in turn, created a signature style of the period.

In its entirety, Renaissance art focused on creating the illusion of depth and three-dimensional detail in painting. Techniques such as sfumato - blurring or blending sharp lines - and chiaroscuro - contrasting between light and dark - greatly contributed to this theme, and also pertained to the painters’ vision of capturing naturalism and raw emotion. Many famous works from the period, such as da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Michelangelo’s David, serve as examples of the perfection of the depiction of human anatomy in its most natural and proportionate form. Both works, much like others of the time, display the incredible skill artists of the Renaissance possessed, and their view of the natural world with newfound depth and perception.

Oil painting also began its prominence during the Renaissance. The use of oil on canvas allowed for the achievement of more natural light, and equally developed a more dramatic lighting effect.  The Renaissance also saw the use of a painting technique known as fresco, where water-based pigments are applied to fresh plaster. After application, the colours would then dry and set as a permanent piece on the wall. Much of the work done during the Renaissance had a religious theme, and the period saw many altarpieces and church-related paintings done. Michelangelo's ceiling in St. Peter's Basilica stands as one of the most overwhelming and magnificent examples of religious art, but no less serves as an illustration of the importance of religious symbolism and the church's power. The majority of art during the Renaissance maintained a religious undertone as it was the central belief system and law of the time. This power was a dominant influence in style and technique of Renaissance art.

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn’s “Portrait of Rembrant’s Father” is a chilling portrait from the late Renaissance period/Baroque era. Famous for his work as a printmaker and painter, Rembrandt constructed a number of successful works throughout his lifetime. He often created self-portraits, all varying in style and representation. His success as an intimate and sincere portrait painter gave way to his coining as one of the greatest artists in the world of art and Dutch history. I chose to imitate his work primarily due to the distinct lighting techniques. The depth and technique applied in the portrait is very reminiscent of the Renaissance style. To almost entirely conceal one side of the subjects face is to create a sense of mystery and intrigue, and it stands as the most captivating feature of this portrait. The use of dark colours and tones throughout the image play up the highlights and parallel the emotion behind the painting. Although the original work was done with oil, I found the lights and shadows were similar to those that can be achieved in the photography studio. Following the many attempts in the studio and the countless hours positioned in front of a computer screen, I feel my final product is a successful (and silly) take on the style of Rembrandt.  

From its quiet beginning in the 14^th century to its enormous cultural impact by the end of the 17^th century, the Renaissance saw incredible developments within society. The art of the time created the foundations for modern art today, and has remained one of the key periods within art and world history. From the key "Renaissance Men" to the many greats that followed, the Renaissance has evidently given us some of greatest inspiration one could ask for.