Romance. Art. What a wonderful marriage ‘twill be. Okay, honestly, I should have been more attentive in the 2-3 art appreciation classes I have had since starting this lifelong learning gig. The last art class I had at TSU (Nashville) was great. We had to visit a gallery, of course, and do a report. I myself visited the Aaron Douglas and Carl Van Vechten galleries located at Fisk University. I wonder did we talk about the Romantic artist? Hmmm. Oh well, let me tell you all something that I bet you did not know. Well, some of you do. Smarty-pants!

Romance or romanticism artists did not paint pictures of couples gazing deeply into each others’ eyes while picnicking beside a crystal clear mountain stream. Lips a fraction of an inch from all consuming passion. The full moon rising above the distant tree line, slips of clouds...Well, that’s what you thought it was. Right? Yeah, me too! Romantic art, duh! All the lovely dovey ultra handsome men and insanely gorgeous women posing in...well, romantic ways. Man, am I completely blown away. And honestly, yes, just a little disappointed.

Ok, time for today’s Culture Lesson.

Romanticism was an art movement and style that flourished in the early 19th century. It emphasized the emotions painted in a bold dramatic manner. Romantic artists rejected classicism, the accepted style of the time, in order to paint pictures of nature in its untamed state. This often focused on an emphasis on the past. These artists were more emotional and usually melancholy. Bold, untamed, nature, melancholy...okay this is getting a little better. (www.artlex.com/ArtLex/r/romanticism.html).

Okay, are we all together now? Now, when someone strikes up a discussion concerning the Romantic artist period, you can show them how smart you are by adding your thoughts to the conversation. But, be sure to brush up on the subject a little more.

One of the most prominent Romantic artists of that time was Eugene Delacroix. Born 1798, Ferdinand-Victor-Eugene Delacroix is considered the foremost painter of the Romantic Movement in France. Oui Oui ladies, he is French! He was influenced mainly by the works of Gericault, Rubens, Michelangelo, Veronese, and the Venetian school. Later in his life he was affected by the styles of Constable, Bonington, and the English watercolorists. His first major work, The Bark of Dante, elevated his status as an artist and he was recognized as the leader of the opposition to the neoclassical school of David. His work was based on his interpretations of scenes from mythology, literature, and political, religious, and literary history. Delacroix left this stage of living in 1863. www.ocaiw.com www.infoplease.com.

Now, this is just an overview to whet your appetite to learn more about Eugene Delacroix, romanticism period, and just art in general. Why don’t you take a look at the websites above. They have an online gallery where you can stroll thru at your own leisurely pace without worrying about the guard telling you, "Ma’am, the gallery closes in 10 minutes." Delacroix’s works and many, many other major artists are on display for our pleasure. Then armed with your new found appreciation for art, check your local art galleries and go for a visit. Make a day out of it. Invite some cool friends. Take your kids; just don’t let them run amuck. It would be a cool date if you want to impress the new love interest. Hey, it is romantic art!