UFFIZI GALERIA October 5, 2022April 25, 2023 NIGHT BEFOREMy head feels like mush tonight. I am beyond perplexed as to how I can, for beginners, gift wrap a lifetime of experiences–while describing accurately exposure to the multicultural worlds we have been privileged to encounter. I am grateful beyond. There is something so alluring to anticipating the viewing of marvelous works by the distinguished forefathers of artistry, design and creativity—names which are commonly recognizable in today’s world. Additionally, these sensational, famed masterpieces are not thrown into the lot solely on style, technique, or even mediums employed. Critiquing a work quite likely includes the artist’s ancestry, historical matters, political sway, personal calamity, loves and longings, retribution, self-hate and even rage. In addition, those who are scrutinizing these works come to the table with their/our own slants and prejudices and preconceptions which influence the work’s impact. That said, I decided to change my tactics and tackle a new strategy prior to our tour of the Uffizi Galleria, resulting in a detour from our standard meanderings through the collections. And, so, a game FTI (FIND THE IMPORTANT) was birthed. I began FTI with my bestie, Google Gal, researching which of the paintings currently on display were considered the MOST distinctly recognized worldwide. I am happy to report that we found nine out of ten (one on-loan—how—dare them)!Arranged from the most ancient works to modern ones: #1 "THE OGNISSANTI MADONNA" by Giotto (OGNISSANTI meaning all saints) The Virgin Mary portrayed as a real woman with feminine form. #2. "Birth of Venus" by Botticelli. Hair gently caressed by the winds and a shower of roses--"representing the birth of love and spiritual beauty as the force of love.". #3. "La Primavera" by Botticelli. The realm of Venus sung by ancient poets. (interpretation uncertain) #4. "Annunciation" by Leonardo Da Vinci. "Science within art--Leonardo's greatest characteristic." #5. "Doni Todo" by Michelangelo. This is known by the "unnatural poses of the figures." #6. "Venus of Urbino" by Titian. Goddess of Love. #7 "Battle of San Romano" by Paolo Uccello. "Experimental use of perspective." #8. "Bacchus" by Caravaggio(died @ 39 years old) Lacking landscape. The god of wine. #9. "Judith and Holofernes" by Artemisia Gentileschi. Judith, about to decapitate her despised enemy, therefore, keeping her purity safe.NEXT UP: ROMA (ROME) and on to NICE, FRANCE! Author: Sherry Gregory Blog