Inspiration & Education
on the Web
Art museums are an excellent resource for artists and photographers
alike. They offer permanent collections and feature traveling exhibitions,
often accompanied by classes, lectures and study series. For artists,
these are no-cost or low-cost opportunities to study artistic method
and stylistic period, along with the cultural influences of early,
modern and contemporary art and artists. When you feel the need
to seek inspiration or learn from the great masters, chances are
there’s a museum nearby – or just a click away. Here are a few of
REDIMAT’s favorites:
An American Favorite
No bookmark list is complete without the Smithsonian
American Art Museum. Among our favorite online galleries is
Treasures
to Go, which showcases pieces from more than 500 different exhibits
ranging from impressionism to the sophistication of the Gilded Age,
from folk art to the radical trans-formative works of the Modern
Age. Whatever your style or genre, as an artist you’re sure to discover
or recover inspiration with the masters at this web-based treasure
trove.
For The Shutterbugs
Meanwhile, photographers will want to focus on the Smithsonian’s
Photography Collection. This inclusive online display
includes notable works of more than 1,500 American photographers.
Highlights include work by the New York Photo League, the art of
Man Ray, American daguerreotypes, and contemporary photographic
art. Photographers will find applications in the curator’s review
of image detail, composition and technical insight provided with
many of these exhibits.
While you're there, be sure not to miss all the resources
available. From Net-based photography projects to communities
for ‘talking pictures,’ there’s plenty to choose from.
A Timeless Favorite
If you’re seeking a scholarly perspective, The
Metropolitan Museum of Art provides an invaluable reference
and research tool for artists navigating The
Timeline of Art History. A chronological, geographical, and
thematic exploration of the history of art depicted by works from
around the world, the timeline maps artistic expression from prehistory
to 1800 AD. Each image is accompanied by supporting material and
can be enlarged for closer scrutiny. Artists will find a bonus in
the online Special Topics or Resources sections, detail-rich with
information on artistic movements, media, cultural influences and
period artists.
Diverse Denver Art Museum
Add variety and heritage to your national art tour with a visit
to the Denver Art Museum, where you can experience a plethora of
styles, ranging from early Native American works to the diverse
modern, contemporary art. Online at The
Denver Art Museum, one of the museum’s best online resources
is an educational 163-page museum and art study, available for download
here.
The Museum’s "Interpretive Project" explores the impact
of museums and the arts on patrons – both novice and experts – and
was designed in part, “to help novices become more expert in and
rewarded by works.” The study focuses on how people experience art
and how they visit museums--both of which should be points of interest
for the business-minded artist. Attitudes towards non-profit museums
and for- profit galleries are often similar, so gaining insight
on your patron's experience helps you create a more meaningful (and
potentially profitable) interaction. Pay special attention to the
'Learning to Look’ section for insights on enriching your gallery
presentation to appeal to multiple audiences.
No 'big name' museum around you? No problem! Discover inspiration
and education through your local or regional museums – greats place
to connect to other artists in your community. By visiting often;
you support and promote the arts in your community, and consequently,
your own work, too.
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