What is a Landscape?
Landscape photography, often called landscape photos, captures the different areas of our world. These can be huge and endless or tiny and detailed. While landscape photos usually highlight the beauty of nature, they can also showcase human-made structures or changes in the environment.
When did landscape emerge as a genre in western culture?
After the Roman Empire collapsed, the practice of showing untouched landscapes faded away. Instead, landscapes were mostly used as backgrounds for religious and human figures. This way of thinking lasted until the 16th century, when artists started to appreciate landscapes as important subjects on their own.
When did classical landscapes emerge as a genre?
In the 17th century, the classical landscape emerged. These landscapes drew inspiration from ancient times and aimed to depict an idealized version of nature, reminiscent of Arcadia, a mythical region in ancient Greece famous for its serene and beautiful countryside.
What prompted the rise of Landscape Art during the late 18th / 19th century?
Religious painting saw a drop in popularity across Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. This decline, along with the rise of Romanticism, which focused on feelings, personal expression, and celebrating nature helped landscapes become a favourite subject in art, a trend that remains strong today.
When did landscape photography originate?
The first known landscape photograph dates back to between 1826 and 1827. The photo was an urban scene captured by a French inventor named Nicephore Niepce.
John Constable
John Constable RA (June 11, 1776 – March 31, 1837) was a famous English landscape painter who was part of the Romantic movement. He was born in Suffolk and is best recognized for changing the way landscape painting was done. His works often depicted Dedham Vale, the region around his home, which is now referred to as “Constable Country.” He had a deep love for this area. In a letter to his friend John Fisher in 1821, he expressed, “I should paint my own places best,” emphasizing that painting is really about expressing feelings.
