The Dutch Tradition: From Rembrandt to de Kooning

The Dutch tradition offers a rich and diverse artistic legacy that spans centuries, featuring the works of renowned painters such as Vermeer, Van Gogh, and Mondrian, all of whom have made significant contributions to the development of Western art. From the mastery of chiaroscuro in Rembrandt's portraits to the bold experimentation of de Kooning's abstract expressionism, the 350-year Dutch tradition continues to inspire painters today (i.e., Jenny Selville, Cecily Brown, Frank Auerbach, and more). This survey of Dutch art, from the Baroque to modernism, begins with Vermeer in Delft, followed by Rembrandt in Amsterdam, then Van Gogh and Mondrian in Paris, and finally de Kooning in New York. Students will explore the diverse range of artistic styles and techniques employed by these painters, including Vermeer's mastery of light and texture, Van Gogh's bold use of color, and Mondrian's geometric abstractions. Furthermore, students will be able to understand the important contributions made by these exceptional artists by looking at their actual paintings, which are prominently displayed in New York museums. Four in-class lectures and four excursions to museums make up this course.

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