The Shock of the New readings we did really reminded me of pieces that I really like from the 19th century. One in particular is the oath of the Horatii by Jacques-Louis David. The painting is just a masterpiece, the symmetry, the detail, the symbolism.
I don't know why I like the neoclassicism era so much. It's definitely nothing close to what's popular in art these days. It was some time before realism and the avant garde and something that distinguishes from it is the patriotism that is the instilled. Just a look at this painting can show a real urge or sense of patriotism, a message that one should always stand up and fight for ones country. I'm sure paintings like this were helpful to more conservative politicians.
I'd really like to see more paintings like this these days. I'm sure a big problem is that it takes too much time to make, and wouldn't make much money. I don't think there should be another revivial of classicsm( neo-neo-classicsm?) but it would be nice to see people today trying to emulate the style. I'd do it myself ifI could, but I can't draw human figures, just terrible at it. bleh.
