Cultural session explores European Renaissance Art at Arab Club

Sharjah 24: The Arab Cultural Club recently held an enlightening cultural session titled “European Renaissance Art.” The session featured an illustrated presentation of iconic works by three of the most prominent classical European artists: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Jacques-Louis David. These works were examined as foundational masterpieces that embody authentic artistic values, which every aspiring artist is encouraged to study before pursuing creative endeavours.

Renaissance Art values and techniques

The session delved into the artistic principles of the European Renaissance—a period often referred to as the era of classicism. Key values highlighted included portraiture and natural landscapes, realism and precise depiction, mastery of light and shadow (Chiaroscuro), human emotion and drama, and perspective and colour harmony.

Artists during this era aimed to portray dramatic, emotional human experiences, influenced by ancient Greek art, while maintaining technical precision and aesthetic harmony.

Spotlight on three master artists

Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519)

An Italian polymath known for his achievements in art and science, da Vinci combined deep anatomical knowledge with innovation in color blending and emotional expression. His famous works—Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and Virgin of the Rocks—exemplify his signature use of light, gesture, and subtle gradations of tone.

Michelangelo (1475–1564)

A master painter and sculptor, Michelangelo saw the human form as the pinnacle of artistic subject matter. His grand murals, such as The Creation of Adam on the Sistine Chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment, are celebrated for their complexity, elegance, and profound influence on later European visual art.

Jacques-Louis David (1748–1825)

A leading figure of the Neoclassical school, David revived classical ideals with a strong focus on narrative, precision, and realism. Unlike earlier classical works centered on nature, David’s art focused on historical themes. His masterpieces include The Oath of the Horatii and Napoleon Crossing the Alps.

The link between classicism and modern movements

Dr Omar Abdel Aziz, Chairman of the Arab Cultural Club, emphasised that the session aimed to establish a foundational understanding of classicism and neo-classicism, which paved the way for movements such as expressionism, surrealism, cubism, and modernism.

These schools preserved core classical principles—like visual harmony and emotional depth—while transforming artistic expression.

Artistic principles as a launchpad for creativity

Dr Omar stressed the importance of grounding young artists in these time-tested principles, noting that without internalising them, artistic expression risks lacking depth and completeness. The session concluded with a robust discussion on the continuity of classical values in modern and Arab art, and their enduring relevance in shaping creative expression today.