How did Renaissance art differ from medieval art?

The Renaissance marked a significant transformation in the approach to art, characterized by a major expansion in both the scope and subject matter compared to medieval art. During the medieval period, art primarily served religious purposes, focusing heavily on Christian themes and often adhering to a more rigid style that emphasized spiritual symbolism over realism. In contrast, Renaissance artists began to explore a wider range of subjects, including classical mythology, portraiture, landscapes, and the human experience, leading to a more diverse artistic expression.

This shift was accompanied by a newfound interest in realism and the natural world, as artists sought to create works that reflected the beauty and complexity of humanity and nature. Techniques such as linear perspective and chiaroscuro were developed during the Renaissance, allowing artists to depict depth and three-dimensionality in their works, further bridging the gap between art and the physical reality observed around them.

This differentiation from medieval art illustrates how the Renaissance was a period of revival for classical ideas and forms, fostering a culture that celebrated humanism and the exploration of individual experience.