Romeo and Juliet balcony scene
Romeo and Juliet’s balcony scene is a famous and iconic moment in Shakespeare’s play. It features Romeo, who has just met Juliet at a party and immediately fallen in love with her, deciding to climb up to her balcony to steal a kiss. This romantic gesture is both daring and poetic and has become a symbol of the intense passion between the two young lovers.
In fact, the balcony scene has inspired many artistic interpretations over the years, such as paintings, sculptures, films, and even fashion collections. For instance, in 2021, a new art collection of mine premiered during Art Basel in Miami entirely inspired by Romeo and Juliet, with the balcony scene as the centerpiece.
This demonstrates the enduring fascination and relevance of this classic tale of love and tragedy.
Art inspired by Romeo and Juliet
My new art collection comprises twelve distinct pieces that are created with a combination of ink, watercolor, and mixed media. Rather than depicting the entire story of Romeo and Juliet, the collection primarily showcases key moments in their relationship.
To add an intriguing twist, the narrative in the exhibition was altered through a “what-if” scenario: “What would have happened if Romeo and Juliet had not died?” This prompted me to explore the different stages and changes that could have occurred in the love story between the two main characters.
The artwork series is designed to highlight these changes and their emotional impact on the two lovers. It is also meant to be an investigation of the journey we all undertake in our own love stories, and the adjustments we need to make within ourselves to sustain a successful relationship.
Through this collection, I wanted to create a story that went beyond the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet and provided a thought-provoking perspective on the transformative power of love.
Throughout life, we often come across relationships where the initial passion and excitement are abundant, but over time, the spark fades, and the affair fails to grow into something more meaningful. This phenomenon is commonly known as infatuation, which is a temporary state of heightened emotion and physical attraction that often fades once the initial desire has been satisfied.
Unfortunately, many people mistake infatuation for love and enter into relationships based on temporary feelings rather than genuine connections. This can lead to disappointment and heartbreak when the initial passion fizzles out, and the relationship fails to develop into something deeper.
Benvolio finds Romeo hopeless and nearly sick at the beginning of the play because his love has not corresponded with a girl.
“Why, then, O brawling love, O loving hate,
O anything of nothing first created,
O heavy lightness, serious vanity,Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms,
Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health,Still-waking sleep that is not what it is.
This love feel I, that feel no love in this.”
Romeo and Juliet act 1 scene 1 ( Romeo speaking to Benvolio)
Is it right to celebrate Romeo’s hasty decision to move on and profess his love for Juliet immediately upon meeting her at a party as true love?
Some might argue that Romeo’s quick infatuation with Juliet was a result of youthful passion and an impulsive desire to find love. However, others may contend that true love requires more time and deeper connection to develop, rather than being a sudden and fleeting emotion based solely on physical attraction.
It is crucial to recognize that true love is not just a momentary feeling or a fleeting emotion. It involves a deeper and more profound emotional connection that can only be achieved through time, effort, and a genuine desire to connect with another person.
What makes a relationship last? What makes partners grow?
The question of what it takes to sustain a long-lasting and meaningful relationship is a crucial one. It is one that every couple must ask themselves and answer honestly if they hope to build a strong and lasting connection. Without a clear understanding of what it takes to make a relationship work, it can easily become nothing more than a fleeting and temporary bond.
However, not everyone is willing to make the changes necessary to build a lasting and fulfilling relationship. Many people are searching for their ideal partner but are not willing to make the necessary changes within themselves to become the kind of person that is capable of sustaining a healthy and loving relationship.
Perhaps, if we take inspiration from Romeo’s story, we can find a new perspective on what it takes to build a lasting relationship. Rather than focusing on our own selfish desires and needs, we need to learn to put the needs of our partners first. It is only through selflessness and a willingness to change that we can hope to build the kind of deep and meaningful connection that is the foundation of lasting love.
As an artist, I sought to challenge the traditional visual language associated with Romeo’s story by using watercolors to create a new and unique perspective. By doing so, I aimed to create a new and thought-provoking interpretation of this classic tale that encourages us to reconsider our own assumptions about what it takes to build a meaningful and lasting relationship.
Romeo and Juliet: the balcony scene
At the heart of the collection, there was a particular artwork that stood out – the balcony scene. My intention with this painting was to portray a perfect representation of love, one that goes beyond the physical attraction and youthful foolishness often associated with the two star-crossed lovers.
At first glance, the painting appears to depict a vortex between the two lovers, with each standing face to face in the foreground. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that there is more to the painting than meets the eye. The image is cleverly constructed to show the lovers’ reflection on the opposite side in the background, creating a deeper and more profound visual representation of their connection.
the two lovers are not only positioned in the foreground but are also reflected on the opposite side of the painting in the background
If you look closely, you will notice that the two lovers are not only positioned in the foreground but are also reflected on the opposite side of the painting in the background. This subtle but intentional detail adds a deeper layer of meaning to the artwork.
For a relationship to endure, it’s important for both partners to be able to empathize with each other and see things from each other’s perspective. In other words, the ability to assume each other’s points of view is a crucial component of a lasting and healthy relationship.
When we view our partner as an extension of ourselves, and they are willing to do the same, it can be a powerful declaration of love. In essence, it’s an expression of the deep level of empathy and understanding we have for each other.
This sentiment is beautifully captured in the words of Romeo and Juliet when they declare to each other, “I am willing to be you.” These simple yet profound words demonstrate the level of selflessness and devotion that is required for a truly enduring and loving relationship.
When both partners are willing to put their egos aside and view each other as extensions of themselves, a deeper and truer form of love can exist that is not solely based on physical attraction or infatuation.
In my artwork inspired by Romeo and Juliet’s love story, I wanted to convey this message of selflessness as the foundation for enduring love. The painting is a visual representation of the idea that when we view our partner as an essential part of ourselves, we create a bond that transcends physical aspects.
In essence, the artwork is meant to inspire the viewer to consider their partner as their own wing or true appendix, recognizing the importance of putting their partner’s needs before their own to create a mutually fulfilling and enduring relationship.
The rendering of the painting
n creating this particular painting, I opted to use Indian ink on watercolor paper. The decision to do so was motivated by my desire to create a graphic novel style image, with the primary colors being black and white.
To add depth and dynamism to the composition, I incorporated splashes of red color. These serve to underscore the sense of movement and energy within the artwork, highlighting the intense passion and emotion that characterizes the love between Romeo and Juliet.
let me know if you like it.
In conclusion, Romeo and Juliet’s story has remained a timeless classic for centuries, captivating audiences with its powerful depiction of love, sacrifice, and tragedy. Through their example, we are reminded of the importance of being willing to change, grow, and adapt to be with someone we love.
As we have seen through the exploration of the artwork collection inspired by Romeo and Juliet, love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that cannot be reduced to mere physical attraction or infatuation. True love requires sacrifice and the willingness to let go of our egos and embrace our partner as an extension of ourselves.
Through the use of different artistic techniques and visual elements, these paintings offer a fresh perspective on the iconic love story, emphasizing the importance of empathy, mutual understanding, and selflessness in building a lasting relationship.
Ultimately, the lessons we learn from Romeo and Juliet’s story are just as relevant today as they were centuries ago, reminding us of the transformative power of love and the incredible heights that we can reach when we are willing to take a chance on it.
The Importance of Arts in our lives
Arts play an important role in our lives. They help us to express ourselves and connect with others. By experiencing and enjoying the arts, we can improve our quality of life.
But there is more: the neglect of Art is a terrible loss because it means allowing cancel “culture” to take place.
Join me as I explore the importance of Arts and how they benefit us all.
“I am not a teacher, but an awakener.”
― Robert Frost
Today I want to introduce this great man of culture: Robert Lee Frost. You might know him or you might not. Let’s get a brief bio.
Robert Lee Frost (March 26, 1874 – January 29, 1963) was an American poet. He is the only poet to receive four Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry.
He became one of America’s rare “public literary figures, almost an artistic institution”.
He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1960 for his poetic works. On July 22, 1961
Frost died in 1963 and the President of the United States at that time (John F. Kennedy) was asked to speak at an event to celebrate him and his accomplishments.
His speech became memorable and gave us an extremely powerful idea of the role of art in our lives.
From Wikipedia
How can culture be used to improve society?
In John F. Kennedy’s speech, he describes the role and the importance of art. He is talking about poetry, but we can all substitute that word with “Art”.
Art has the very nature and purpose of questioning, of challenging society.
“We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda: it is a form of truth.”
Here you can listen to the entire speech.
This transcript of the speech is short, but it is filled with substance that will make you feel good.
“Strength takes many forms, and the most obvious forms are not always the most significant. The men who create power make an indispensable contribution to the Nation’s greatness, but the men who question power make a contribution just as indispensable, especially when that questioning is disinterested, for they determine whether we use power or power uses us.
When power leads men towards arrogance, Art reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man’s concern, Art reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence. When power corrupts, Art cleanses.
For Art establishes the basic human truth which must serve as the touchstone of our judgment. “
This article written by Maria Popova inspired me to write this post.
Can Artist be of use of society in a cancel culture?
Creative thinkers and makers provide joy and interaction for people in their communities. They also give critique to our political, economic, and social systems. But is this real in a cancel culture? How do we preserve the work of an artist, even if is a critique, from being banned?
If a President of the United States can be canceled then what chance does an artist have of navigating the treacherous waters of modern society?
Check out this interesting link from BBC about this matter.
We must protect Art, artists, freedom of speech, and culture. It doesn’t matter if is written in on the constitution. It is up to us to keep these values alive.
My work as an Artist
The reason I created my collection based on Shakespeare’s story is that I strongly believe that Art helps us tell our stories, celebrate, remember the past, challenge the present, and imagine the future.
The insights of what I learned on my relationships, in my private life, are the core concepts of this new collection: Romeo and Juliet.
It is my journey to becoming an adult, instead of being a child and acting like a child.
It’s my adventure, and I want to share it with you.
I encourage you to look at each painting and read the description… To get an understanding of the meaning of each one.
The real story of Romeo and Juliet, a sharp bipolar division
“There is no world without Verona walls,
But purgatory, torture, hell itself.
Hence-banished is banish’d from the world,
And world’s exile is death…”William Shakespeare, Romeo e Juliet – Act III, Scene III
When talking about Romeo and Juliet, there is a related tale that is very mysterious and fascinating.
It involves power, scandal, and homicide.
Intrigued? You should be…
This can also explain the current situation we are living in. The world seems to come to a bipolar division.
Who is pro “vax”, who is not? Who is left, who is right, who is red who is blue, who is on the North, and who is on the South?
Who believes and who doesn’t. This pattern is very recognizable and sometimes extreme!
Trust me when I say that this is not just now. This is not just in America.
Let’s turn back the clock 700 years, and do a time travel together where you come with me to Italy!
A mysterious Murder
It’s 1200 a.c. Middle Age. No internet (of course! lol). The quest for power never stopped through the history of man.
100 years before the contest of Romeo and Juliet something that should not happen, happened.
A man named Buondelmonte (( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buondelmonte_de%27_Buondelmonti )) lays on the ground, in the city of Florence. Dead.
The atmosphere is explosive, people are angry, and they demand a violent consequence.
Who killed Buondelmonte? Why is he dead?
And why does this matter with today’s times and Romeo and Juliet?
It’s about a wedding that never occurred.
Buondelmonte who was a young rich Italian man refused to marry a woman who was arranged to be his wife from the two families. She was belonging to another political party, an opponent family.
The day before the homicide he married another woman. And it was recognized as outrageous and an insult to the family of the woman that was rejected.
The siblings of the rejected bride prepared the strike. The ambush worked perfectly.
He died on the street like an animal.
This incident was the spark of more than hundreds of years of riots in Italy.
The Guelph vs Ghibelline(( Check out this link for more info: https://www.britannica.com/event/Guelf-and-Ghibelline )) were the two main political powers. The Ghibellines were the imperial party (Roman Empire), while the Guelphs supported the Pope.
At that time the Pope was not only the holder of the spiritual gate to paradise but also the owner of great political power on the ground.
Romeo and Juliet’s story starts with the family fighting. But that is what is referenced: the war between The Guelph vs Ghibelline. At that time Verona was supporting the Ghibelline party.
The reference of that fight is the set of the romance between the two lovers. And even if it happened almost 700 years ago it is still relevant nowadays. We are so sick and tired of these fights.
History will repeat itself over and over again until we learn from it.
As an artist, I not only paint to inspire people but just as the art of the Masters like DaVinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo (the greats who inspire me today) I want my art to tell a story and hold it in history, passion, and impinge on the viewer in a way that forces them to think and hopefully shifts the narrative. It is through art that society can in fact heal.
My new collection
Romeo and Juliet is my new collection originally presented at Art Basel Miami in December 2021.
So yes, I created these paintings because it’s a relevant story that helps us rediscover treasures from the past and get new inspiration and hopefully culture. I created this collection at this time in history with a desire to continue to open the eyes of the World.
It’s a limited series;
High-quality prints are available;
Many people are taking advantage of this offer and to you I am grateful.
Help me spread the message by hanging this art in your home and sharing the story.