This week I wanted to explore the work of Rubens because I figured if I was going to start somewhere, I should start with the best. We have studied the work of Rubens throughout all the art history courses I have taken in the past few years. He is continually referenced as the best and many artists base their work off of what he started. I particularly like his use of brushstrokes in his two paintings above, and even the pencil strokes in the drawing. The proportions are very accurate and precise but the brushstrokes are figurative and give the pieces a bit of movement. I am interested in learning how to portray the human face accurately and realistically and Rubens definitely accomplished that in his career. I am most inspired how he juxtaposes line work with blending to make the figures appear round.
