Why Ultra-Contemporary Artists Are So Obsessed With Old Masters | Artnet News
Artnet News
by J. Cabelle AhnFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Contemporary artists are increasingly drawn to the techniques and styles of Old Masters, blending historical influences with modern themes. This trend is evident in numerous exhibitions across New York, where emerging and established artists reinterpret European art history, from Donatello to Goya. While some may view these references as mere "name-dropping" to boost an artist's credibility, conversations with gallerists and artists reveal a deeper, more authentic engagement with the past.
Émile Brunet, for instance, uses traditional materials like those from Kama Pigments, inspired by Northern Renaissance masters such as Hans Memling and Holbein. His work reimagines rural life through a contemporary lens, exploring how medieval and Renaissance imagery can remain relevant today. Similarly, Eleanor Johnson turns to Rubens's Baroque style, emphasizing the intensity and saturation of his techniques, which she finds resonant with modern life's busyness.
This revival of historical techniques isn't just about mimicry; it's about innovation. By revisiting materials, processes, and compositions from past eras, artists like Brunet and Johnson create a bridge between tradition and contemporary experience. Their work demonstrates how old methods can evolve to speak to today's audiences, offering fresh perspectives on art history.
This trend matters because it challenges the assumption that modern art must reject historical influences. Instead, it shows how deeply rooted techniques can inspire new creative directions, enriching the artistic landscape with a sense of continuity and innovation. For those interested in art, this highlights the enduring relevance of tradition in shaping contemporary practices.
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/13/2026