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Claude Monet is a famous French painter and was also known for the birth of the art movement Impressionism. This is due to his works that have captured light and natural forms. He was born in 1840 in France and studied in Academie Suisse. He suffered from depression, poverty, and illness. Monet died in 1926. 

Early life

Claude Monet was one of the most famous painters in the history of art. He was also known to be the key person in the development of the Impressionist movement. He spent most of his childhood in Normandy where his family moved when he was only five years old. He then developed his passion for art where he started with caricature. He was then encouraged by his father to do painting, which he enrolled in Academie Suisse. After several years of experimenting with different art forms, he met with the Swiss painter, Charles Gleyre and worked with Alfred Sisley, Auguste Renoir, and Frederic Basille. 

Life as an artist

It was known that Claude Monet loved to work outdoors and often with the company of Sisley, Renoir, and Basille. He was also accepted at the Salon of 1865, which was an annual juried art show in Paris. Two of his world were chosen for this event. However, even with the spotlight on him, he still experienced financial struggles. 

Just like many artists, Claude Monet sometimes was not satisfied with his works and has destroyed a number of his paintings. One of his notable works, “Impression, Sunrise” (1873), featured Le Havre’s harbor in the morning fog. The goal of his works was to capture the essence of the natural world with the use of strong colors and bold, short brushstrokes. He also adopted some elements of industry into his landscapes making his works look more contemporary. With this signature in his works, he started to exhibit with the other Impressionists until the 1880s. 

Claude Monet’s personal life

Even his personal life was filled with struggles. During the second pregnancy of his wife, Camille, she succumbed to a deteriorating illness. Claude Monet even painted a portrait of her on her death bed. After the death of Camille, Claude Monet painted a set of paintings, the Ice Drift series. Claude then became romantically involved with Alice Hoschede and got married in 1892 after the death of her husband.

It was in the late 1880s and 1890s that Monet gained financial success as his paintings became well-known. While in Giverny, he loved to paint in the gardens that he helped create. A series of paintings about water lilies in the pond were some of his notable works. The Japanese-style bridge over the pond became the subject of several works as well. 

Claude Monet traveled to find more inspiration. Once, he rented a room across the Rouen Cathedral in northern France and painted a series of paintings of the building. These works clearly showed his interest in the different effects of light. 

He helped in changing the world of art by introducing new things in the field and doing away with the traditional. He was also the key person in influencing later artists such as Jackson Pollack, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning. 

Later years

Unfortunately, Claude Monet suffered depression in his later years. He felt that his life was a failure and that he intends to destroy his paintings before he disappears. Still, he continued to paint until his last days. He died on December 5, 1926, in Giverny. 

“Starry starry nights. Paint your palette blue and gray…” You have heard the song, and have hummed it. This song by Don McLean has immortalized one of the greatest artists in the history of Western art, Vincent van Gogh. Many of us have loved his works, yet not all are familiar with his story. Read on to learn more about life and some of the works of Vincent van Gogh. 

Who is Vincent?

Vincent van Gogh was born on the 30th of March 1853 in Groot-Zundert, Netherlands. His family was quite known as his father, Theodorus van Gogh was a country minister and Anna Cornelia Carbentus, his mother, was an artist who loved to draw and paint in watercolors different scenes of nature. 

As a child, Vincent was serious and thoughtful. He had homeschooling and was taught by his mother and a governess. Later on, he was sent to the village school and eventually attended a boarding school at Zevenbergen where he felt alone and abandoned. His parents sent him to the middle school in Tilburg where his sadness got worse. 

His interest in art started at a young age when he was encouraged to draw by his mother. Unfortunately, his sadness overshadowed the lessons, and later on, Vincent wrote that his youth was “austere and cold, and sterile”. 

In 1873, Vincent went to the Groupil Gallery in London where he fell in love with the culture of the English. There he spent time visiting galleries and became a fan of the works of Charles Dickens and George Eliot. 

He fell in love with Eugenie Loyer, the daughter of his landlady. However, his marriage proposal was rejected and as a result, Vincent suffered a breakdown. To compensate for this, he devoted his life to God and taught in a Methodist boys’ school. 

His love for art

In 1880, van Gogh decided to move to Brussels and become an artist. During this time, his brother, Theo, offered to support him financially. He taught himself by reading and studying books. 

It was in art that he maintained his emotional stability. It was in 1885 that he started to work on his first masterpiece, “Potato Eaters”. It was when he moved to Paris when Vincent first saw Impressionist art in which he was moved by the color and light. He then started studying with Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Camille Pissarro, and others. 

Vincent’s love life

Believe it or not, his love life is considered to be disastrous. He even fell in love with his cousin, Kate. But Kate was repulsed and fled to her home in Amsterdam. He then moved to The Hague and met Clasina Maria Hoornik, who later on became his companion, mistress, and model. 

Unfortunately, he left Hoornik and The Hague as this was also the wish of his family. Vincent then lived a nomadic life in The Netherlands and focused on drawing and painting the landscape and its people. 

Life as an artist

Vincent was also influenced by Japanese art and began studying eastern philosophy to further expand his knowledge and skills in art and life. He then went to France and moved into what we now know as “yellow house” where he spent most of his money on paint instead of food.

He completed more than 2100 works including 860 oil paintings and more than 1300 watercolors, drawings, and sketches. His painting “The Starry Night” was done in the asylum where he was staying in Sait-Remy, France in 1889. Inspired by this view, he wrote to his brother Theo and said, “This morning I saw the countryside from my window a long time before sunrise, with nothing but the morning star, which looked very big.”

Over 10 years, he created more than 43 self-portraits which are now displayed in museums around the world, such as in Washington, DC, Paris, New York, and Amsterdam. 

He died on July 29, 1890, at the age of 37.

Looking for unique and amusing ways to decorate your home? You might be surprised as some retro designs are making their comeback and funky and neon colors are among them. These two color schemes are too exciting to use and fun to look at. These color schemes might be the answer you are looking for to personalize your rooms. These can also add depth and warmth to your design along with matching decorative items. 

Funky accents 

Evoke a retro feel in the room with funky colors. Forget about traditional colors, the funny ones will make a difference to what interior decoration is all about. Create an accent wall and let it become the focal point of your room. With the use of funky colors and patterns, you can easily create a highlight in the room. This can be done with the display of posters or even with the installation of wallpaper. 

After the wall, you can further improve the room’s appearance with fabrics. Infuse a comfy and relaxing vibe with fabrics in neon or funky colors. As such, you will also have a room with a nostalgic vibe. Neon pink, neon orange, hot pink, or plush velvet are some of the hottest picks when it comes to colors.

Neon colors

Neon colors were popular back in the 70s and 80s. Today, the colors are making a comeback although not commonly used in homes, offices, and other establishments. However, neon colors have a lot of potential in creating beautiful spaces. The use of neon need not be overwhelming as there are many ways on how to add them to your homes. 

Neon colors can be used to brighten up any room especially those with dark walls. With the addition of neon-colored items like lampshades and throws, you are able to add a little personality to your space. Furniture pieces are also a great addition to make your home look fun and exciting. However, bear in mind that anything too much is not good. Too many neon colors may also be an eyesore. Choose where they will be added so as to complement the overall appearance of your home. 

At first, adding neon colors may be intimidating. But once you start using them, you will realize that it is fun and thrilling. Every home should reflect your personal style and taste so be creative in using neon colors. There are different ways, and the easiest one is with the display of posters. 

Final thoughts

Bringing back the past is one of the coolest ways to level up your home interior. We know that the 70s or 80s designs are not for everyone, but with the right touch, they can be captivating. Achieving the style may be challenging at first but as you go along you will see that it is fun combining colors and furnishings. 

Funky and neon colors are likewise not for the faint of heart. They are loud and bold but the impact they give is simply amazing. With the use of posters, you can easily achieve the style that you want. Add pops of colors in prints and your home will have that eye-catching look that you will love.

Finally, after months of waiting, the winners of the 2021 Photo Competition are out! Who would have known that this contest will be successful? It started with a simple idea, a smooth plan, and open communication. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Philippines, Artdesign decided to have the theme, “Beautify Your Walls with Natures of the Philippines”. Why not? Contrary to what many think about the country, the Philippines is rich in natural resources and tourist destinations. 

The participants

It is at many surprises that a total of 385 original photos have been submitted from all parts of the country. All entries feature the wonders of nature that are seen in the different parts of the Philippines. From different landscapes and seascapes to the majestic sunset view, you will surely be amazed at how these photos were taken at the right moment.  

The selection process

We know that the photo entries submitted were given much thought and effort. From the 385 participants, the top 20 photos were chosen based on the total online votes that they garnered. The top three photos of nature were carefully and meticulously chosen by the jury from Artdesign who have keen eyes and taste when it comes to art. The final selection process was not easy. All entries are remarkable and truly fit the goal of Artdesign in giving WOW to the walls of every Filipino home. 

The winners!

We are proud to present the top three entries that have made a difference in creating wall art. Seeing the images will surely leave a smile on your face. The prizes for the winners are as follows: 

• 1st prize Php 25,000
• 2nd prize Php 15,000
• 3rd prize Php 10,000
• Consolation prize Php 1,000 worth of Artdesign voucher each

The winners are:

• 1st place LOW TIDE by Leo Segundo
• 2nd place WESTERN SEASIDE SUNSET by cabauatanapril
• 3rd place UPSIDE DOWN by jrroberto0529

Other entries who have made it to the final 20 are:

• REFLECTION by Mark Angelo Macaspac
• TRAIL OF LIFE by Castilloroel01
• RAFFLESSIA by MCKENTPELEGRINO.WORK
• MANILA CATHEDRAL by Grace Macapagal
• HILLS THAT HEALS by RV JOHNAGUSTINARROYO
• TANGERINE SUNSET by Vincent Chang
• MANILA BAY SUNSET by Theresa Trish Lacana
• LUXURY IN SIMPLICITY by Guia Joy Piston
• NATURE ESCAPED by Racy
• THE NATURE BEYOND OURSELVES by Gian Violago
• UPSIDE DOWN by JRROBERTO0529
• ANTIQUE CLOUDY FORMATION by Arra Chavez
• LOVE AND BLOSSOM by Philip Cesar Pingaron
• BLOOM by Elisha Morales
• HIDDEN PARADISE by Stacey Lozada
• BIG LAGOON, EL NIDO PALAWAN by Angela Mallari
• SWANS UNDER SUNSET by Alona Alcover1996
• SA LALIM NG GABI by Kit Manliguez
• WESTERN SEASIDE SUNSET by Cabauatan April

Artdesign is in deep gratitude to all participants. Not only that you have shown your talent and skills in photography, but you also have shown the world that the Philippines is a great place to visit. Until next time. Congratulations everyone and many thanks!

There are so many things that can be said about the 80s. This decade of new wave likewise gave birth to amazing decor trends. Although the 80s design style has retro elements, it is still employed in many homes and establishments. From brightly colored furniture pieces to geometric patterns on your walls. These decor elements will surely complete your day and make you feel like you are back in time again.

Use lucite in your rooms

Lucite is a clear, thick plastic that works great in rooms where you want to avoid adding too many textures and clutter. This is a decor trend that started in the 80s and never went away. 

Pops of neon for a funky appeal

The 1980s is never complete without the images of neon lights and bright colors. The incorporation of neon lights in prints can simply add a retro design to your room. Display neon-themed posters to add accent to your walls. Whether in the bedroom or living room, neon prints will surely be a trendy 80s design that you will adore. 

Go for brass

Brass is another material that was popular during the said decade. It is bold and loud and when used in furniture the material can give a fun and whimsical feel. 

Consider Memphis style

Memphis design was a movement that started in Milan, Italy in 1981. It is characterized by all things colorful, abstract, and loud. Achieve the design style in your rooms with abstract art, abstract-inspired throws, and bold colors throughout the textiles. 

Pastels for a fun-looking interior

The great thing about the 80s is that the design trends were contrasting. Pastel is a great alternative if you are not into neon and bold colors. Pastel colors make a lovely interior. Consider using pastels in the children’s room for a cool and interesting ambiance. 

Palm everywhere

Tropical prints were loved in the 80s, as well as tropical plants. Add a retro style in your rooms with tropical prints, especially with palm trees or leaves. As such, you will be adding a summer vibe to your home. 

Rounded accessories

Want to add a touch of 80s in your rooms? Add rounded decorative items such as vases, mugs, and candle holders. Match them with pastel colors and bring the retro feel to your home.