Topic > Renaissance, the rebirth in Europe - 558

As the Middle Ages came to an end in Europe and a new time period followed, the Renaissance. The Renaissance means rebirth and that is what it really was in Europe. This was a transformation from medieval times to modern times. The Renaissance helped Europe make further strides in the artistic field. Artists who painted, sculpted, and made music produced art that had more individualism and creativity. Donatello and Leonardo Da Vinci were two people who influenced the Renaissance with new art and new effects on society. Donatello and Leonardo Da Vinci played an important role in the new art during the Renaissance for Europe. Donatello was born in 1386 and his birth name was Donato di Niccolo di Betto Bardi. Donatello was a very successful artist. Specifically he was a sculptor. Many people say he may be the second most talented and greatest artist ever: “Second only to Michelangelo in terms of skill and sheer greatness” (Artble 1). The basic skill that helped him become so successful was that when he was young he received training in a goldsmith shop. Donatello was one of the first to start making sculptures and was one of the most talented at it. Because his sculpture was so advanced by then, it made his work very popular. His impact was so great that his sculpting techniques are still used to this day. Many say that Donatello is the founder of modern sculpture. Furthermore, Leonardo Da Vinci also helped make an impact on art during the Renaissance. Leonardo Da Vinci was born on April 15, 1452 and his birth name was Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci. Leonardo Da Vinci was one of the most talented artists who ever lived. Leonardo Da Vinci was talented enough to become a successful painter, sculptor and draftsman. Although he is mostly known for his painting skills. His painting skills were something Europe had never seen before. His most popular painting was The Last Supper, an iconic piece of art, history and religion. His art is said to be unparalleled: “wonderfully endowed with beauty, grace and ingenuity in abundance” (Vasari 254). This new style that he brought into the Renaissance made people go crazy for his stuff. Da Vinci was very popular among art and people. One of his closest friends was Nico Machiavelli. Both Donatello and Leonardo Da Vinci had a positive impact on society.