What if the Masters of the Renaissance Were Alive Today?
The masters of the Italian Renaissance, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. A new story woven by these three artists will appear as a documentary series on PBS in July 2025. Their art was born not just from the pursuit of beauty but also from fierce struggles for power and politics of the time. If such an era continued into modern times, how would our lives change?
1. Today’s News: What’s Happening?
Summary:
- The documentary series ‘Renaissance: The Blood and the Beauty’ will air on PBS from July 8 to 22, 2025.
- The work depicts the lives and rivalries of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.
- Their artistic masterpieces were created amidst fierce political power struggles.
2. Three Structures Behind the Background
① The Structure of Current Issues
Renaissance art was deeply connected to politics and power. Even today, as we consider how art and culture are influenced by politics, issues of freedom of expression and funding come to light.
② How It Connects to Our Lives
Art and creative expression have a significant impact on our daily lives. Let’s think about how our experiences at museums and exhibitions influence our values and ways of thinking.
③ We as “Selectors”
We choose which art to support and appreciate. By selecting and supporting works with social messages, we have the power to create new values.
3. IF: What Happens If We Continue Down This Path?
Hypothesis 1 (Neutral): A Future Where Art and Politics Are Naturally Linked
Art may become commonplace as a political message, and expressions in public spaces and media could diversify even more. This change could serve as a new means to deliver messages to a broad spectrum of society, resulting in art being regarded as an important trigger to consider social issues.
Hypothesis 2 (Optimistic): A Future Where Art Greatly Develops Society
A society where freedom of expression is respected, allowing artists to create works more freely, may be realized. This could foster a rich society where diverse values coexist and accelerate innovation. New forms of communication through art may become common, increasing the creativity of society as a whole.
Hypothesis 3 (Pessimistic): A Future Where Art Becomes Politically Stained and Lost
As political pressure increases, art may be influenced, potentially restricting freedom of expression. This could suppress diverse perspectives and new ideas, raising the danger of art being used merely as propaganda. Consequently, a future where cultural diversity is lost is a concern.
4. What Choices Can We Make Now?
Action Items
- Raise awareness of social issues through art.
- Support freedom of expression and accept diverse perspectives.
- Support art that aligns with your values.
Thought Hints
- Understand the messages in art and consider their impact on society.
- Appreciate diverse art to broaden your values.
- Objectively capture the relationship between art and politics and form your own opinions.
5. Workshop: What Would You Do?
- How do you perceive the role of art in social issues?
- How would you respond when free expression is restricted?
- What future do you want to envision through art?
6. Conclusion: Preparing for 10 Years Ahead to Make Today’s Choices
What future have you envisioned? Please share your thoughts on the relationship between art and politics on social media or in the comments. Our choices shape the future.
