This week, in my Leonardo da Vinci-themed art history class, I had the opportunity to visit an exhibition of one of the more unique and interesting artists in art history, Arcimboldo. Renowned for his attention to detail and his his life-like portrayal of animals and nature, he was a Leonardo disciple who helped continue the Renaissance theme of realism. But, his most renowned works are his “Composite Heads,” which are an eclectic combination of aspects of nature that are arranged to form the shape of disfigured human heads. Arcimboldo created 2 famous series consisting of these heads: the seasons (“Spring,” “Summer,” “Fall,” “Winter”) and the four elements of nature (“Earth,” “Air,” Fire” and “Water”). Being able to see these works in person was an incredible experience due to the fact that the majority of them are owned by private collectors, who allowed them to be used for this one-time exhibition (Plus IES pays for it!). The ability to visit works of art such as these, as well as our later trip to “The Last Supper,” illustrate how taking art history in Italy can actually be interesting, even if you do not really have any prior interest in art.

Cameras were not allowed to be taken into the exhibit, but here is a link where you can see all of his works: Arcimboldo.

Location: Milan, Italy