Stories of renaissance: Defining and sustaining

August 8, 2021

Building on previous publications, I have had a chance to discuss the concept of renaissance with a few clients and others who are helping me define the project and goals of V I V A C E.  One of those conversations with my dear friend Lauran Bonilla-Merchav is worth developing in detail. 

Lauran is a lecturer, researcher, curator and consultant of art, culture, museums and heritage. Currently she is adjunct professor of Art History in the School of Plastic Arts at the University of Costa Rica. She also teaches humanities and cultural tourism courses at the National University of Costa Rica and is leading the International Council of Museum’s work in redefining the concept of a museum as a place not only for artists but also for portraying the identity and memory of communities. 

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The project of V I V A C E is closely linked to the idea of renaissance and encouraging artists, entrepreneurs, artisans and other creators to rethink and reinvent business, creation and scholarship.  When thinking about how to define what a renaissance is, Laurie was one of the first people I turned to.  

My first question to Laurie was about how to define and sustain a renaissance.  In her view, the concept of renaissance, whether in Italy, Greece or Harlem, is foremost a time of introspection.  In each of these cases, artists and philosophers seek to turn the eye to humanism and the self.  They look at how to improve or “perfect” the human being and our ways of living.

That said, a renaissance is not about creating art for the sake of appreciation but art for the sake of catalyzing thought and change.  Northern European renaissance was expressed their views through detail and landscape, while Southern European renaissance was interested more in psychology, religion and emotional expression.  Each artist has his or her own motivation and the renaissance is not about promoting uniformity but rather seeking to expose different views and asking questions.

Laurie explained that following the Italian renaissance, artists came into existence for the first time.  Previously, working with one’s hands had rarely been celebrated, whereas following the deaths after the plague, a renewed interest was developed.  This led to increased exchange and discussion between socio-economic groups that had previously functioned in a somewhat siloed manner.

In addition, a renaissance needs not only artists, philosophers and creators but also patrons who will support, facilitate and make space for art.  The Italian and Flemish masters looked for ways to help move along and sustain the renaissance.  They were supported by patrons such as Lorenzo de’ Medici (“il magnifico”) who, following in the footsteps of his family, fostered and cultivated the Platonic Academy of Florence. 

Diversity is also a key feature of a renaissance.  It’s not about expressing the same idea.  It’s about bringing together different perspectives on the same theme but realizing that each perspective is also a reflection of that artist’s own perspective and context. 

As for what is happening today, only future generations will be able to place the significance of the current shifts that are taking place before us.  Some of the themes we are seeing are lifestyle change, the role of divisions in society, identity politics, decolonization, science versus art and the role of nature as potentially bridging those two worlds.  And the concept of “unlearning.”

In any case, we need to find the opportunity in the crisis and bring as many voices to the table as possible.  We must look first to understand what everyone is saying as opposed to judging each other.  Change is taking place, including within the art world.  Institutions are redefining themselves, including museums, to reshape their role is in preserving and transmitting culture going forward.

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My conversation with Laurie got me thinking about how to acknowledge the power of renaissance as a chance to move humanity forward. 

Even though it might be early to ask this question, what other words we should use to describe the renaissance that is happening around us today?

The first word that I would propose is “ours” in English or “à nous” in French. 

This is a first attempt to suggest that the current renaissance is one that is to be defined and realized together. 

While there are certainly Medici-like figures that are playing a role in shaping it, this renaissance is really one that is to be created and shared by many.  The concept of “community” is at its heart. 

With heartfelt thanks to Laurie,

CPM