The term Renaissance is derived from the French word "Re-birth" which describes the period of European history from the early 14th century to the late 16th century.
The Renaissance was a cultural revolution that blossomed out of the stagnant middle ages. Artists, philosophers, architects and musicians from all across Europe brought about a revival, not only to their own lands, but eventually the world. Their names have become well known by all ages around the globe. Michaelangelo, William Shakespeare, Leonardo Da Vinci; these are but a few of the endless list of those who contributed their great accomplishments to the Renaissance period.
My interest in the Renaissance began as a student of art history and grew as I became fortunate enough to see the work of those that I had studied. It was then that I began to understand that art, in the broad sense of the word, is not only a hobby or escape for the painter, poet, musician, but a driving force to create.
Just as we are influenced by modern day media. So were the generations affected by the distinctive Renaissance period.
