Sistine Chapel From the Ground Up

Let's simplify the Sistine Chapel- whether you are planning a trip to Rome, have been and want to learn more, or are just curious about the art. This class will help simplify a massive building into simple parts highlighting the most see murals and giving fun facts you can share with your friends and family. Through lecture and discussion our goal is to understand fresco painting and the collaborative efforts that made the Sistine Chapel one of the most famous places in the world. 

This class is completely nonsecular focusing on the art history of the Sistine Chapel and not its religious use. The chapel holds some of the most famous fresco paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. This grand building is connected to many artists including well-known names like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael. In a sense, the decoration of the Sistine Chapel is one of the largest collaborative art projects ever undertaken. How was this managed? Who orchestrated this project? How did they get so many artists with varying styles and tempers to work together and complete the project?

This class is designed to simplify the Chapel which is often overwhelming to young and old alike. We will look quickly at the building as a whole considering its construction and design. We will then focus in on the chapel and break it into sections considering the artists, themes, and inspirations for the decorations. Students will learn what a fresco is, how Michelangelo would have painted the ceiling, and why he chose to paint so many nude figures. We'll discuss his opinions on the project and whether we think we could have done it. We'll see Michelangelo's work on the west wall which includes a frightening self-portrait, and other scenes that decorate the walls including tapestries designed by Raphael.