Thanks to technology and social media, art lovers can see how their favorite artists work. Many contemporary artists post video footage or time-lapse videos of their creative process, giving us precious insight into their creative minds. And while it may be rarer, did you know that we have similar types of videos from some of the greatest artists in history?

Since moving video was developed at the end of the 19th century, it has been used to document life as we know it. Many artists have allowed video footage to be taken either while they were working or in an interview setting where they explain their artistic philosophy. From Claude Monet painting in his garden to Georgia O'Keeffe's reflection on her career, there is so much to learn.

While the footage might be rare, plenty of it has been uploaded to YouTube, and it just takes a bit of searching to unearth these hidden gems. We've done a lot of the heavy lifting and found some incredible videos for you, which can be viewed below. Standouts include a 74-year-old Renoir struggling through the pain of rheumatoid arthritis to keep painting. Taken in 1915, the video shows Renoir's 14-year-old son Claude placing a paintbrush in his father's hand, which had been permanently deformed by the illness.

Roy Lichtenstein's 1966 interview, in which he confronts criticism about Pop Art, is a fascinating look at how the artist views his work and its role in society. There are also some fun oddities, like Salvador Dalí painting a rhinoceros at the Paris Zoo and Keith Haring executing a live painting during a television show in Italy.

Whether you love watching artists in action or enjoy hearing them discuss the theory behind their art, you'll enjoy this different look at Western art history.

There is a lot of rare footage of artists at work to be found; here are some of our favorites, from Monet to Hopper to Haring.

Claude Monet, 1915

Pierre-Auguste Renoir, 1915

Auguste Rodin, 1915

Wassily Kandinsky, 1926

Henri Matisse, 1946

Pablo Picasso, 1950

Jackson Pollock, 1951

Salvador Dali, 1955

Marcel Duchamp, 1956

Alberto Giacometti, 1965

Edward Hopper, 1965

Roy Lichtenstein, 1966

Georgia O'Keeffe, 1977

Keith Harring, 1984

Gerhard Richter, 2011

(Please note that this list reflects what’s been made available, hence the lack of female representation commensurate with the absence of their public exposure throughout art history.)

h/t: [Open Culture]

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READ: 16 Rare Videos of Iconic Artists at Work, From Monet to Matisse to Dalí

Photo: matejh/Depositphotos

Orangutans are majestic primates who share 97% of their DNA with humans. These deliberate and capable animals are known for their ingenuity and ability to use simple logic. Unfortunately, both Bornean and Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered due to deforestation, fires, poaching, and the illegal pet trade. Luckily, there are organizations like Borneo Orangutan Survival Australia (BOSA) that are working for the survival of the species.

While the non-profit works to protect existing rainforest habitat and rescue, rehabilitate, and reintroduce orangutans into the wild, a large part of its mission is to educate the public about these incredible animals. BOSA often posts videos that show the remarkable behavior of these primates, providing an important reminder of what we stand to lose if we don't come to their rescue.

In one video, we join volunteers as they meet up with rescued orangutans at a sanctuary in Borneo. It's incredible to see the primates in their own habitat, following the boat as it floats down the river and gratefully extending a hand to accept the food offered. Another informational video shows how orangutans build their nests. Their careful foraging and skillful weaving are just further demonstration of their intelligence.

Part of the important work BOSA does is to equip orphaned orangutans with the life skills they need to survive in the wild. It's a critical issue, as many orangutans lose their families at a young age. In this “jungle school,” orphaned orangutans learn to forage, recognize predators, build nests, and much more. Once they “graduate,” they are then able to be released into the wild. Clips of these orphaned orangutans fill the organization's Instagram feed and are an incredible look at how these primates learn.

With fewer than 14,000 Sumatran orangutans and 57,000 Bornean orangutans left in the wild, BOSA's work is more important than ever. Orangutans face an uphill battle. In just 16 years, from 1999 to 2015, more than half of Borneo's orangutan population was wiped out. According to BOSA, without effective habitat protection, the species will be extinct in 10 to 20 years. By donating to these organizations and learning more about these primates, you can do your part to turn back the tide.

Orangutans are incredible primates that are closely related to humans.

 

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Unfortunately, both Bornean and Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered.

By posting videos of their behaviors, Borneo Survival Australia hopes to raise awareness.

The non-profit runs a “jungle school” to teach orphaned orangutans life skills.

 

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Then, they are released into the wild.

 

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Borneo Orangutan Survival Australia: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

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READ: These Orangutan Videos Show off How Smart the Critically Endangered Primates Are

Photo: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public domain

In ancient Rome, the gladiators who fought at the Colosseum were superstars. The top athletes of their day, these men trained relentlessly to participate in the gruesome battles that entertained up to 80,000 spectators. Many of their lives were short because of these battles, which also involved animals, but they were admired for their courage. A glass cup in The Metropolitan Museum of Art demonstrates just how revered some gladiators were.

Known as the Montagnole Cup, it dates back to around 50 to 80 CE. The translucent green-yellow cup has two friezes running around the sides, with the lower frieze showing four pairs of gladiators in different stances. On one side, a gladiator is lying on the ground, while two others advance with shields. Above them, the names Gamus, Merops, and Calamus are inscribed. Overall, eight gladiators are shown on the cup, some standing victorious and others down in defeat.

According to scholars, these glass cups used a new technique called mold blowing to place the images and text into the glass. Since some of the names inscribed match the names of popular gladiators, it's believed that this cup was used as a souvenir for games held in Rome during the Julio-Claudian period.

Dr. Kimberley Cassibry, associate professor of art at Wellesley College, writes that these cups were quite popular, and there are hundreds of examples throughout the Roman Empire. Charioteers were also featured on these cups, once again demonstrating the population's love for entertainment and spectacle. They became a way for people across the empire to remember and participate in these games over and over again.

“In the end, the novel experiences offered by the cups made the vessels themselves desirable,” writes Dr. Cassibry. “They became a spectacle in their own right, something worth seeing, both in Rome and in the provinces.”

In ancient Rome, some gladiators became famous for their feats during gruesome battles in the Colosseum.

“Pollice Verso (Thumbs Down)” by Jean-Léon Gérôme. 1872. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)

Mold-blown glass cups featuring gladiators and their names became souvenirs, showing the popularity of these spectacles.

Photo: Dr. Kimberly Cassibry via Destinations in Mind (CC BY-NC)

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READ: Intricate Glass Cups Featuring Gladiators Were Souvenirs in Ancient Rome

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For over 15 years, Armenian artist Karen Akhikyan has been creating dynamic wire sculptures. His pieces often capture people in movement and are wonderfully expressive. Self-taught, Akhikyan has finely honed his craft over the years and enjoys infusing raw emotion with the strength and resilience of metal.

Whether lifting a heavy piece of stone or hanging onto a tree limb, Akhikyan's figures are remarkable. By harnessing the wire's innate flexibility, he is able to produce an endless number of gestures and movements. Yet the figures aren't just dynamic; they also possess an inner strength. Transferring emotion into his art is something that Akhikyan aims to do through the creative process.

“Through every experience, it's an emotional release, pouring my thoughts and feelings into tangible forms,” Akhikyan tells My Modern Met. “This process allows me to create without boundaries and share a piece of my inner world with others. I enjoy the flexibility to shape and mold the wire into intricate forms, allowing me to bring my artistic vision to life with fluidity and spontaneity.”

In some sculptures, Akhikyan incorporates other materials. Tufa, a type of limestone, is a particular favorite. His characters push against it, climb up it, and carry it, with the rock providing a wonderful contrast against the metal. In a sculpture called Zero Gravity, he forms a bright red parachute from plexiglass, which delicately holds up a falling figure.

These dreamy forms allow viewers to create their own narratives as they leave room for interpretation. If these sculptures create discourse, then the artist considers his work done.

“I aim to evoke introspection and provoke thought, encouraging viewers to engage with their own inner worlds and perspectives,” Akhikyan shares. “I want my sculptures to spark conversations and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of human emotions and experiences. Ultimately, if my artwork leaves a lasting impression or sparks a moment of reflection in someone's life, then I consider it a success.”

You can follow Akhikyan's work on Instagram and purchase his sculptures via Saatchi.

Karen Akhikyan creates dynamic sculptures from metal wire.

The self-taught artist has been honing his craft for over 15 years.

Karen Akhikyan: Website | Instagram | Saatchi

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Karen Akhikyan.

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Inspired by the timeless allure of the golden ratio, architectural designer Manas Bhatia has used AI to produce a series of floating skyscrapers. With these buildings, which he calls Nautilus Bioarchitecture, Bhatia muses whether the timeless classicism of the golden ratio can shape the architecture of the future. Based on what we've seen, we think that the answer is yes.

“The spiral pattern, governed by the Fibonacci sequence, is a testament to the inherent beauty and efficiency of natural design,” shares Bhatia. “Could we create buildings that mimic the resilience and adaptability of these natural forms?”

Bhatia's questions build on the golden ratio, which has been in place since antiquity. Revered for its ability to create stunning, balanced compositions, it is based on a mathematical ratio of approximately 1.618. The Greeks based the Parthenon on this ratio, which is also present in the proportions of the pyramids of Giza. In this case, Bhatia was inspired by the natural world and, more specifically, the nautilus shell.

Closely associated with the Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio, this visually pleasing shell provides the starting point for the architect's idea. Elaborated using Midjourney, ChatGPT, and LookX, Bhatia's designs once again prove the aesthetic power of this mathematical ratio. Of course, as the designer points out, architecture is not all about aesthetics. If these designs were to translate into the real world, they need to include practical considerations such as building codes, client preferences, and budgetary constraints.

Still, Bhatia's work shows us the best of AI's capabilities by opening our minds to what could be possible. If architects incorporate even a fraction of these spiral designs into their work, the results would be magnificent. For Bhatia, showing others how these mathematical principles could be applied in contemporary terms is a win.

“Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the application of these mathematical principles offers tangible benefits in architectural design,” he writes. “From optimizing spatial layouts to enhancing structural stability and efficiency, the golden ratio and Fibonacci sequence provide architects with a versatile toolkit for realizing their creative visions. By adhering to these principles, architects can create buildings and environments that not only captivate the senses but also foster a sense of balance and well-being for their inhabitants.”

Scroll down for more glimpses of Bhatia's golden ratio floating skyscrapers, and prepare to be inspired.

Nautilus Bioarchitecture is architectural designer Manas Bhatia's take on the golden ratio.

Since antiquity, this mathematical ratio has been incorporated into architecture, and now Bhatia is giving it a contemporary spin.

Inspired by the Fibonacci sequence and the nautilus shell, he's used AI to design a series of spiraling skyscrapers.

“The spiral pattern, governed by the Fibonacci sequence, is a testament to the inherent beauty and efficiency of natural design,” Bhatia shares.

The contemporary floating structures demonstrate the visual power of the golden ratio.

Manas Bhatia: Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Manas Bhatia.

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READ: Dreamy Floating Spiral Architecture Inspired by the Golden Ratio

Photographer Jan Erik Waider is known for his exploration of Iceland's magnificent landscape. From incredible icebergs to mysterious waterways, Waider brings out the best of his subjects. In his newest exploration of Iceland, he only builds on his experience to produce a fresh look at the country's glacial rivers.

According to Waider, Iceland's winding waterways are called “braided river systems” due to the intricate patterns that they produce. The photographer's Glacier River Blues is a look at the abstract patterns created by these waterways. At first glance, it's not immediately clear what we're looking at. The rivers almost appear as inky markings along a canvas. But as we learn more about Iceland's rivers, their pathways become clear.

“Most rivers have their source at one of the numerous glaciers and flow towards the sea,” Waider tells My Modern Met. “Along the way, they transport vital nutrients for the ecosystem in the form of sediment. As the flow of the rivers declines, the sediment is deposited within the riverbed, temporarily leaving small islands of sand which cause the river channels to further divide and branch.”

Waider has been exploring these fascinating rivers using drones and small planes for several years. His expertise in seeking out compositions in abstract shapes is evident. The combination of the hypnotic forms and the rivers' cool colors produces a tranquil atmosphere that is part of what inspires the photographer. “I find their ephemeral and dynamic nature very captivating and inspiring, and I am always fascinated by how different the rivers look,” he admits. “Sometimes, even the same river a few kilometers downstream.”

While the images are calming, there is a lot of hard work that goes into producing them. Though Waider used to use fate to guide him, he's now moved to looking at satellite imagery to scout locations. Once he finds something interesting, the challenge is making his way there, as many locations are quite remote. He often needs to go off-road or even fly a small plane to get what he's after. But judging from the results, all of the effort is well worth it.

Shortly, Waider will be spreading his wings and traveling to Alaska for the first time, where he's looking forward to viewing a new glacial landscape. Follow his adventures on Instagram, and scroll down to see more aerial views of Iceland's rivers.

Photographer Jan Erik Waider is fascinated by Iceland's landscape.

He often takes aerial photos that follow the abstract shapes produced by Iceland's glacier rivers.

“I find their ephemeral and dynamic nature very captivating and inspiring.”

Jan Erik Waider: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Behance

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Jan Erik Waider.

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READ: Stunning Aerial Photos Capture the Abstract Beauty of Iceland’s Glacier Rivers

 

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Have you ever considered what it would be like to visit an art exhibition without being able to see it? It may seem strange, but for millions of visually impaired people, this is a reality. But just because someone might not be able to see the art doesn't mean that they can't appreciate it. A recent video of artist Daniel Arsham showing Dr. Hoby Wedler, an American chemist, educator, and entrepreneur, one of his sculptures proves this. Dr. Wedler was born blind, but that does not stop him from insightful commentary on the art.

In the video, we see Arsham at his new exhibition in Venice, leading Dr. Wedler toward one of his signature sculptures. The artist takes Dr. Wedler's hands and guides them up the sculpture from the base. Known as a tactile tour, this is a common practice in museums and galleries when visually impaired visitors wish to enjoy the artwork.

As Arsham begins to explain the sculpture—which is from a series of pieces based on Star Wars—Dr. Wedler's enthusiasm is palpable. As with much of Arsham's work, there are crystals incorporated into the figure. Dr. Wedler inquisitively asks what the stones are and then astutely mentions how he realized that they were quartz from the texture.

Arsham does a wonderful job of giving information but also leaving Dr. Wedler to discover the piece for himself. He moves Dr. Wedler's hands up the bust and asks him if he understands what it shows. Dr. Wedler correctly identifies that it appears to be human, and then Arsham lets him know that it's a Stormtrooper.

The men then continue with a discussion on how the crystals are incorporated and sourced before moving on to “view” another part of the exhibition. The video is a wonderful reminder that there is more than one way to enjoy art.

It is also an important reminder that anyone with a visual impairment should contact a museum or gallery before visiting to inquire about whether or not they lead tactile tours. More places than you may realize offer this opportunity, including the Vatican Museums, MoMA, and the British Museum. All it takes is a bit of advanced planning. Some museums even have 3D versions of their paintings for those with visual impairments.

Artist Daniel Arsham recently opened an exhibition in Venice.

 

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The artist was able to help his friend, Dr. Hoby Wedler, who is blind, enjoy the artwork by giving him a tactile tour.

 

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Daniel Arsham: Website | Instagram
Dr. Hoby Wedler: Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
h/t: [Reddit]

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READ: Artist Daniel Arsham Helps Blind Man Enjoy His Tactile Sculpture

Some pieces of literature capture our imaginations from the moment they are published. The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter are two epic series that have done just that. Whether you've read all the books or watched all the films, these epic fantasy tales have had an undeniable impact on our culture. Now, you can bring a bit of the magic of these stories with you thanks to beautifully designed playing cards by theory11.

Filled with Easter eggs that any fan will love, each deck of cards comes in an artfully designed box with gold details and imagery from the series. With The Lord of the Rings, your traditional cards have been replaced by iconic characters such as Gandalf, Aragorn, and Legolas. Illustrations help bring you on a journey from The Shire to Mordor, and superfans will appreciate subtle touches that incorporate the Light of Eärendil, Lurtz, and Minas Morgul.

Harry Potter lovers will appreciate the chance to select between two different decks—red for Gryffindor house and green for Slytherin house. Once again, the box is a work of art with gold touches and illustrations on both that include the emblems of all four Hogwarts houses and other icons to draw you into Harry Potter's wizarding world. Of course, you'll find all of your favorite characters on the cards, from Harry and Hermione to Voldemort and Draco Malfoy.

Thanks to illustrations based on the films, the artful decks of cards are a treat even if you've only enjoyed these stories on the silver screen. John Rhys-Davies' Gimli and Elijah Woods' Frodo are unmistakable, as are Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson as Harry Potter and Hermione, respectively.

Any pop culture lover who enjoys a game of poker, rummy, or solitaire will enjoy these luxurious cards. Made in the U.S.A., the cards are printed on FSC-certified paper derived from sustainable forests, using vegetable-based inks and starch-based laminates. Honestly, they're so nice you might just want to frame them.

Scroll down to get a peek of these fun, magical card decks, and head over to My Modern Met Store when you're ready to check out.

Fantasy fiction lovers will be thrilled with these Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings playing cards filled with hidden Easter eggs for die-hard fans of both series.

Harry Potter Playing Cards (Gryffindor / Red)

theory11 | $14.95

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Harry Potter Playing Cards (Slytherin / Green)

theory11 | $14.95

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The Lord of the Rings Playing Cards

theory11 | $14.95

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All decks are now available for purchase at My Modern Met Store.

theory11 | $14.95

theory11 | $14.95

theory11 | $14.95

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The world's largest collection of original and authenticated Banksy art is extending its stay in London. The Art of Banksy has already been viewed by 1.5 million people in 15 cities, and now locals and visitors to London will get another chance to view the elusive street artist's work. The exhibition was originally on Regent Street but has now reopened in Soho with ticket sales until January 2025.

The carefully curated show includes more than 150 pieces, including prints, canvases, drawings, and fascinating ephemera. From the iconic Flower Thrower and Girl With Balloon to unique stencils and hand-drawn sketches, the exhibition is a wonderful way to learn more about Banksy.

The show also focuses on recent projects such as Banksy's Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem, Dismaland, and recent artwork related to the war in Ukraine. In doing so, it gives a holistic look at the world's most famous street art.

Though not curated or authorized by Banksy himself, The Art of Banksy is a wonderful opportunity to dive into his long, storied career, which has undoubtedly changed the world of contemporary art. For more information on tickets and hours of operation, check the exhibit's website.

The world's largest collection of Banksy artwork is on view in London.

The Art of Banksy includes over 150 pieces, including prints, canvases, drawings, and ephemera.

The Art of Banksy: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by The Art of Banksy.

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Photo: Nuncius 39, 1 (2024)

An 11th-century astrolabe inscribed with Arabic, Hebrew, and Western numbers shows a strong collaboration between different religions and cultures. In a new report, Dr. Federica Gigante of the University of Cambridge discusses this scientific instrument, which she discovered thanks to a photo uploaded to a museum in Verona, Italy.

Dr. Gigante, an expert on Islamic astrolabes, contacted the museum, which didn't know much about the astrolabe and thought it could be a fake. When she had the chance to examine it in person, she knew that she had something special on her hands. “When I visited the museum and studied the astrolabe up close,” she shares, “I noticed that not only was it covered in beautifully engraved Arabic inscriptions but that I could see faint inscriptions in Hebrew.”

Astrolabes were incredibly important in history, allowing people to make astronomical measurements and navigate successfully. They can tell local time, help set up a calendar, provide positioning in latitude, as well as many other functions. This particular astrolabe appears to have had multiple owners, with Hebrew and Latin added to the instrument over time. After examining the style of the engraving and the arrangement of scales on the back of the astrolabe, Dr. Gigante determined that it is Andalusian. Specifically, she traced it to Al–Andalus, the Muslim-ruled area of Spain, and the instruments that were created there in the 11th century. Due to the inscriptions, she believes that it was made in Toledo. At the time, the city was a cradle of culture for Muslims, Jews, and Christians, so it seems quite appropriate that the astrolabe be manufactured there.

The instrument has several interesting features, including the inscription of Muslim prayer lines and names. Placed at specific times, these features demonstrate how the astrolabe also helped users track when to recite their daily prayers. There is also a second plate with common North African latitudes that suggests the astrolabe was used in Morocco or Egypt at one point.

The Hebrew inscriptions, which were added by more than one hand, give evidence of the astrolabe exchanging hands. “These Hebrew additions and translations suggest that at a certain point, the object left Spain or North Africa and circulated amongst the Jewish diaspora community in Italy, where Arabic was not understood, and Hebrew was used instead,” explains Gigante. Verona had a substantial Jewish community in the 12th century, and it appears that it made its way there. Eventually, it landed in the collection of Veronese nobleman Ludovico Moscardo before passing into the Miniscalchi family through marriage. This is how it ended up in Verona's Fondazione Museo Miniscalchi-Erizzo, which preserves the family's collection.

Now that its significance has been revealed, it's become a treasured part of the collection for its history and what it represents. Dr. Gigante says, “This isn’t just an incredibly rare object. It’s a powerful record of scientific exchange between Arabs, Jews, and Christians over hundreds of years.”

A researcher from the University of Cambridge discovered a fascinating astrolabe in a Verona museum's collection.

Photo: Nuncius 39, 1 (2024)

Dating to the 11th century, the scientific instrument has inscriptions in Arabic, Hebrew, and Latin.

Photo: Nuncius 39, 1 (2024)

“This isn’t just an incredibly rare object. It’s a powerful record of scientific exchange between Arabs, Jews, and Christians over hundreds of years.”

Photo: Nuncius 39, 1 (2024)

h/t: [Good News Network]

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READ: Scholar Discovers 11th-Century Astrolabe With Inscriptions in Arabic, Hebrew, and Latin