Our growing archive of info about art, design, and culture.
Art speaks a language all its own. Sometimes, the messages are as clear as day, but often, they are wrapped in layers of mystery, symbolism, and hidden meaning. For centuries, artists have…
Victor Horta (1861–1947) was a Belgian architect and designer, widely recognized as one of the founders and leading figures of the Art Nouveau movement. His work is celebrated for its innovative use…
The present building dates from the 13th century and is the second longest cathedral in Ireland, after St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin. Beside the cathedral stands a 100 ft 9th-century round tower. St Canice’s…
Peter Fendi, born on September 4, 1796, in Vienna, Austria, was an Austrian painter and engraver known for his contributions to genre painting and erotic art during the 19th century. Fendi’s career…
The earliest art in Latvia was not made for walls or galleries—it was carved into bone, sewn into wool, whispered into the bark of birch trees, and buried beneath the ground as…
Émile Gallé (1846–1904) was a French artist and designer who played a pivotal role in the development of the Art Nouveau movement. His work, which spanned glassmaking, furniture design, and ceramics, is…
The art world has long faced criticism over its gender imbalance, particularly in exhibitions. Some argue that male artists dominate art exhibitions to an unfair degree. However, there are historical, cultural, and…
Russell Drysdale, born on February 7, 1912, in Bognor Regis, Sussex, England, and later becoming one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, was a prominent figure in 20th-century Australian art. Renowned for his…
What role do art critics play in shaping our understanding and appreciation of art? Are they indispensable guides illuminating the complexities of artistic expression, or are they gatekeepers enforcing rigid standards of…
Wilhelm Busch, often celebrated as the grandfather of modern comics, was a German painter, poet, and illustrator whose satirical works laid the foundation for contemporary comic strips. Born on April 15, 1832,…
Long before it became the sprawling metropolis of more than twenty million people that we know today, Mexico City was already a center of artistic activity. Built on the ruins of the…
Maps are more than just navigational tools; they are windows into history, culture, and human ambition. From ancient times to the digital age, maps have not only guided us but have also…