Why Was Michelangelo Important to the Renaissance?
Michelangelo is important to the Renaissance because he changed the way the world viewed art and artists. His contributions to the era inspired others to see art and artists as valuable assets to the community.
Before Michelangelo, artists were looked upon as simply craftsmen. However, his brilliance and capacity demanded that the world see artists as anything but ordinary. When Michelangelo unveiled David in Florence, Italy, the world looked upon this piece of art as nothing but amazing. The city even used the sculpture as its symbol to the world. The sculpture is over 14 feet tall and its lifelike qualities surpass other sculptures of this era. It took 3 years to complete and Michelangelo had nothing but an image in his mind when he approached the huge slab of marble. Michelangelo’s other artistic feats include the painting of the Sistine Chapel, the Last Judgement and his sculpture Mary.
Michelangelo’s art was seen by many as perfect. His paintings and sculptures appear real because Michelangelo studied anatomy at an early age. He wanted to know how the body functioned so he could capture and express authentic shapes in his subjects. His efforts toward perfection remain a goal of many artists.
