I'm Thinking About Art

I have always admired art, all kinds of art.  Of course my favorite medium is literature, but my affection for art doesn't stop there.  I grew up overseas and spent a lot of time surrounded by beautiful castles, wonderful museums, and delicious food! 

Recently, I friend of mine named Claire, entered the below piece, into a contest in which she is now a finalist.  (Congratulations by the way, Claire!) 

"Acrylic + sumi ink on Jacquard" by Claire Wentzel, California

 And this got me thinking about various works of art that I have loved throughout my life and I thought I would share a few with you.  This first one is from the Louvre and I couldn't begin to explain why, but caught my attention at the age of 16 and I have been inspired by it ever since.  It is the Coronation of Empress Josephine by her husband Napoleon.

By David Jacques-Louis

I remember standing in the room, just staring at this piece for what felt like seconds, but I guess had been minutes because my family had to pull me out of there to continue our tour.  I think that this was the first piece of art that ever captured my attention and got me thinking and wondering.  You know? 

Next I wanted to show you my favorite castle.  I went exploring in this castle for the first time when I was in the eight grade and I would dare you not to let your imagination run wild when you see it.  Inside, they actually had some original pieces of furniture and armor which I found fascinating because I had never seen anything like it before.

http://www.burg-eltz.de/e_index.html

So, we've seen a castle and picture, so now I want to share my favorite statue.  This famous statue is set in Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and I can't honestly think of anything more moving.  I can't begin to describe what I felt when I saw this - if someone could help me out here...  My next thought here was - wow Michelangelo - wow!

http://www.miraclerosarymission.org/pieta.html

Okay, so that is my short list of favorite pieces of art.  Please don't ask me my favorite book, :), that's just not something I could even begin to speculate on.  The only reason I could come up with these three is because they are different mediums.  What I would love is if you would share with me what your favorite work of art is and why!  I look forward to your comments and Happy Fourth!

P.S.  If you are interested in my friend Claire's art, here is her link:
Claire Wentzel's Red Rose Studios