When you think of adding artwork to your walls of your home, you might envision the iconic graphics of pop art or the nature-inspired strokes of impressionist pieces. No matter the style of art you’re after, you’re sure to find something to express yourself in the deep catalog of works available to the modern masses. 

However, 500 years ago, this was not the case. In the 15th and 16th centuries, only royalty and the extremely wealthy had access to art, which typically depicted — well, themselves. 

So, how did we progress from exclusive portrayals of the privileged few to inclusive representations of daily life? Join us as we explore the evolution of artistic focus from the elite to the everyday man and woman. 

Art in the 15th and 16th Centuries 

As a commoner during this period, obtaining a piece of artwork to adorn your walls was not just a luxury but often an unattainable dream. If by some stroke of luck you could afford such a luxury, the artwork itself would likely be a portrait of a nobleman, gazing imperiously at you from the expanse of the wall. 

But why was art so inaccessible to the average person? 

There were two main causes: the steep cost of commissioning artwork and the scarcity of available artists to undertake such work. The high cost associated with acquiring art was impossible for most, narrowing its availability to the realm of the elite. Art quickly became a symbol of status and power, prompting well-to-do individuals to commission artists who could immortalize their likeness in portraits. These portraits were not only decorative but also served as conspicuous displays of their wealth, further elevating their social standing. 

The Renaissance and the Shift Towards Inclusivity 

During the time of the Renaissance, from the 14th to 17th centuries, society gradually revived its interest in Greek and Roman culture. This fostered an appreciation of philosophy, science, and creativity, laying the groundwork for a transformation of artistic expression. 

Thus, artists in the 1600s began to focus more heavily on the human experience and the many layers of human emotions. They began creating artwork that reflected the individuality of all people, regardless of their wealth and status. 

Additionally, the numbers of the middle class grew and became more capable of buying artwork that aligned with their own experiences. These pieces often reflected the lives of ordinary people. Famed Renaissance artist Pieter Bruegel the Elder was known for painting compositions that captured the everyday lives of rural and village life, from daily routines to annual festivities. 

The Rise of Realism and the Everyman 

Following the dominance of Romanticism in the 1800s, Realism emerged as a powerful and influential artistic movement, captivating both artists and art enthusiasts alike. Realism sought to portray life authentically, encapsulating its beauty as well as its brutality. And what better subjects to convey the truth of the era than the ordinary men and women engaging in everyday activities? 

From “The Elder Sister,” a tender depiction of a girl gently rocking a baby to sleep against a backdrop of lush greenery, to “The Gleaners,” an evocative portrayal of three women laboring in a wheat field, Realism offered viewers a window into the lives of people from all walks of life. Gone were the days of art reserved exclusively for the elite. Instead, Realism democratized art, making it accessible to a wider audience and reflecting the diverse experiences of humanity across the globe. 

Modern Art and the Celebration of Diversity 

As society progressed into the 20th century and beyond, art continued to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing artistic landscape of human society. Throughout the past century, numerous artistic styles have flourished, from the abstract expressionism of esteemed artists like Jackson Pollock to the surrealism of luminaries such as Salvador Dalí. 

Now, whether your artistic appreciation dwells in the geometric shapes of Cubism or the subconscious symbolism that encapsulates surrealism, you can find a diverse array of art from landscape to minimalist available at the click of a button. 

Ignite Your Passions With a BA in Humanities From UTPB 

A degree in humanities offers far more than just an appreciation for art and an understanding of world civilizations. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, our online Bachelor of Arts in Humanities provides a comprehensive grasp of human culture, history, literature, and the arts. Additionally, it equips you with essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which are invaluable for success in a wide range of industries. 

As an online student, you’ll have the flexibility to complete your work on your timeline. During your lunch breaks? Great! Prefer working on the weekends? That works for us, too. 

Forge a path toward a career that aligns with your passions. Start the next chapter in your life—apply today! 

Sources: 
https://www.open.edu/openlearn/mod/oucontent/view.php?id=17161&printable=1
https://www.history.com/topics/renaissance/renaissance
https://www.oxfordartonline.com/page/1626 
https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/roma/hd_roma.htm
https://www.abebooks.com/art/art-through-the-ages/
https://www.theartist.me/art-inspiration/25-most-famous-realism-paintings/