Chambord

What is art? Panting? Drawing? Sculpture? All of the above? The world faces a common misconception of defining art. For some art is anything that displays detail, hard work, and massive creativity, while others feel as though the classics produced by the great triad are the only representation of skill and beauty. I feel it is important to make my stance in the middle of the artistic spectrum. The repetition of tomato soup cans is very creative and intriguing but the appeal of 17th century strokes by Rembrandt is undeniably awe inspiring.

Although my personal favorite style of art focuses more on the classics, appreciation for all types of art is most definitely needed. By appreciating the art of different styles and art you wouldn't most likely connect with, you are broadening the definition of art and your mind to ideas and beliefs conveyed by the artist. Even though you may not agree with what the artist is saying, you are still capable of understanding and respecting their point of view.

Not only can the subject matter of an artists work be unique and convey a personal message, but the form in which this message is conveyed to viewers can also take many shapes. For most of us, we don't have to visit a museum to be effected by art on a daily basis: art is everywhere. From buildings and architectural structures, art makes subtle but influential impacts. Last summer I traveled to Paris, (they should rename it the city of art instead of the city of lights) it was absolutely impossible not to see art and take away a feeling of inspiration and awe. Apartments, to La Tour Eiffel, to the art featured in the Louvre and even the chateaus in the Loire Valley: Paris and the surrounding outskirts serve as the epicenter for art.

Shockingly, one of the works of art that impacted me the most was Chambord, a chateau designed by Leonardo Da Vinci, in which the greatest absolute monarch was born, Lois the XIV. Being a self proclaimed history and art buff, this building combined my two loves. The spiraling staircases, ornate decoration of the towers, the gargoyles in the courtyard, the resemblance of the towers to wine bottles and the specific placement of the front lake to reflect this building and all of it's glory: art. Da Vinci shows classic beauty with out the fear of too much decoration. The structure stands out among the countryside as if to say "Look at me! You can not ignore my beauty!" I heard the call of Chambord. The only rival to its beauty is that of Versailles. Chambord is the perfect example of hidden beauty, strange awe and acceptance, and the hopefully ever growing definition of art.