MY FAVORITE ART

BRANDON PICKETTThree paintings that inspire and move me

Information about Painting Title: The Return of the Prodigal Son Artist: Rembrandt van Rijn Date of Composition: c. 1670 Artistic Era: Baroque

Why I chose this painting As a Christian who loves art, finding

European art that does not break the second commandment is quite difficult to discover. However, this painting beautifully portrays the final scene of Jesus’ famous parable as the wayward son is lovingly received by his father despite the elder brother’s disapproval. This painting reminds me of my own journey back to God in my college years. Whenever I feel proud about who I am, viewing this picture humbles me.

Information about Painting Title: Napoleon Crossing the Alps Artist: Jacques-Louis David Date of Composition: 1801-1805 Artistic Era: Romanticism Other info: Also called “Napoleon at the

Saint-Bernard Pass” or “Bonaparte Crossing the Alps”

Why I Chose This Painting I love this painting because it is a picture

perfect representation of the Romantic ideal: one man valiantly conquering an imposing obstacle. I also love the epic sweep of the picture as it portrays Napoleon as a handsome leader in battle array on top of a magnificent war horse. One normally imagines such scenes in a poem or book, but Napoleon actually did cross the Alps. He was a real life “action hero”.

Information about Painting Title: Nighthawks Artist: Edward Hopper Date of Composition: 1942 Artistic Era: Modern

Why I Chose This Painting I chose this painting because it floods

me with emotions that other paintings do not. Hopper painted it to represent the hopelessness of modern life, and I acutely feel that despair when I look at the painting. However, despite feeling this despair, I feel the conflicting emotion of excitement. The subjects are having a meal late at night and maybe going somewhere afterward. Going about at night can be a very fun thing to do.