In my opinion, every serious photographer must have an above average interest in art and art history. For example, the different styles in painting can be translated to the different styles in photography. Have a look at the excellent BBC series The Genius of Photography, as earlier mentioned in this blog, to better understand the history of photography. The same applies the various techniques used by painters. Compare the techniques and styles used in the paintings of Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Picasso, Dali and so forth. You cannot say that one is a better painter than the other. But the style of one particular painter might appeal to you more than the other. Just as with photography. And that is exactly why, I think, it’s important to understand the history. Of photography, of painting, of sculpture, etc.
Where does this all lead to, you might ask. Well, this week, one of the most amazing projects was revealed that really helps us to better understand art history. It allows us to have a look at the most important art collections throughout the world, just from our comfortable chair behind the PC at home. This week Google gave us its Art Project. The most well respected museums from New York, London, Florence, Amsterdam, Versailles, St. Petersburg and many more had their paintings photographed by Google. Using its Streetview technology enables us to virtually walk around in these museums and have a look at the paintings hanging on the walls. Many of them have been digitized so that we can actually zoom in and see the smallest details. I must admit that I have spent many hours going from one museum to another, just with a few mouse clicks. And from Rembrandt to Warhol. This is so incredibly addictive that the biggest danger is you forget everything else. Whatever your opinion on Google is, this is by far the best thing they have done, as far as I’m concerned.
So I recommend you go and visit www.googleartproject.com. No, I command you to do this. You must. Now! See what it is and how it works. In fact it contains much more information than what I have explained so far. You must see this for yourself. Develop an understanding of the different styles, techniques, poses, expressions. It’s never been easier. Once you understand what you like and what you don’t like (and why), apply this to photography. That of your own and of others. Enjoy!