Los Angeles County Museum of Art presents “Renaissance and Reformation:
German Art in the Age of Dürer and Cranach”
November 20, 2016 – March 26, 2017 at the Resnick Pavilion
5905 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90036
The 1517 publication of Martin Luther’s Ninety-five Theses set in motion one of the greatest movements of ideas in European history. What began as a challenge to the Church for the practice of selling “indulgences,” or vouchers for reduced time in Purgatory, developed into a religious and political movement that reshaped the Western Christian world. The era was characterized by profound changes in thought, philosophy, science, and religion, spearheaded by Martin Luther’s writings, which in turn transformed the work of many artists of the day
Coinciding with the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, “Renaissance and Reformation: German Art in the Age of Dürer and Cranach” brings to Los Angeles some of the greatest achievements of German Renaissance art. Artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Lucas Cranach, Hans Holbein, Mathias Grünwald, Tilman Riemenschneider, Peter Vischer, and a host of others reflected a new vision of the world in their works. The period was marked by conflicts, civil wars, and complex relationships with neighboring countries, but also witnessed a flourishing of many states and cities, reflected in the skills of their craftsmen. The exhibition comprises over 100 pieces, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, arms and armors, as well as decorative arts.
“The exhibition brings together some of the finest works by the greatest artists, painters, sculptors, and craftsmen of the period,” says J. Patrice Marandel, the Robert H. Ahmanson Chief Curator of European Art at LACMA. “We are very pleased to present the show on the momentous occasion of the Reformation’s 500th anniversary.”
During each Sunday in January, LACMA’s acclaimed family program will focus on German art in the age of the Renaissance and Reformation. Drop in anytime between 12:30 and 3:30 p.m, and make, look at, and talk about art. This weekly family event features artist-led workshops and friendly gallery tours and activities thematically based on the special exhibition Renaissance and Reformation. Special focus will be on themes of portraiture, arms and armor, drawings, and bookmaking.
Consider organizing a group from your congregation, fellowship, or ministry group to visit LACMA as part of your Reformation 500 observance! Admission to “Renaissance and Reformation” is part of LACMA’s general admission – no special tickets are necessary. As part of their “Arts for NexGen” program, LACMA offers free membership to anyone 17 years or younger, which comes with free general admission for one adult. In addition, residents of LA County receive free general admission after 3:00 p.m. on weekdays.