Class Projects

 



                                        ART IN THE RENAISSANCE







CONFESSION OF AN ARTIST - an anecdote

January 2025
by H&M team, B2


Hi. My name is Happy Pizzino and my artistic name is Happy Pizza. I'm from Florence, Italy and I was born in 31th February in 1469. I've made lots of magnificent paintings which depicted the power of nature such as the sea side, the glorious snowy mountains of Alpes and raging rivers. I used to be famous and every new artist wanted to be like me. For example, I trained artists like "Michelangelo puppy", "Angelica Glamour" and "Christalia Demir". Although  I was at the peak of my career, pizza was invented.

Suddenly, everything changed dramatically. No one was taking me seriously. And no one was buying my paintings due to my name. I was so poor that I didn't have anything to eat. I was about to be evicted from my home. I had to do something. I was in despair.

From my window I could see a pizza place, where people were eating happily. Then, an idea came to my mind. I would draw foods with feelings!

Thus, I started drawing Sad Tiramisu, Angry Ice Cream, Joyful Pasta, Depressed Bacon and... HAPPY PIZZA!!! Which was my best work. This work gave me the recognition that I deserved and I made a lot of money. This success continued on until I was 105 years old. Then, in 18th February 1574, I started seeing the Pizzas coming to life and speaking badly to me, and when I went out to let people know the Pizzas were alive and started a revolution and would kill us all to take over the world, they looked at me like I was crazy.


They locked me up in a psychiatric clinic.


But I know I was right and I wait for the day to come when everyone will see that I was right.  I'm waiting...

 




 ART AND RENNAISANCE - A PAINTING
January 2025

by The Superheroes team, B1


                                                               

 






In the drawing above,a Renaissance temple is depicted. Located in a mountain village, the eye above the temple symbolises the continuous presence of God, while the waterfalls flowing from the side entrances represent the flow of life.




January 2025

January 2025

(B2, Blites team)

Interview with Andrea del Verrocchio


-What time period were you born?

-I was born in 1435.

-And where was that?

-It was in Florence.

-What business do your parents do?

-My mother didn’t work as for my father he worked as a tile and brick maker and later as a tax collector.

-What members does your family consist of?

-Since I don’t have spouse, I only have my biological family who I’ve always made me sure to financially support.

-How did you financially support your family?

-I began as a goldsmith, and then expended my talents into my work field so I could sculpt, paint and most importantly I trained the artists that today are famous.

-What are some of your famous works?

-My most famous artworks are “The equestrian statue of Bartolornet Colleoni in Venice”

-How do you think your artwork has impacted the public?

-I believe I’ve guided many new artists into the world and serve as a great example for the other renaissance sculptors to follow.

-Thank you for answering all the questions. Would you want to add something else?

-It’s no problem, no there is nothing I’d like to add.

A picture of Andrea Del Verrocchio



 

The country where Andrea Del Verrocchio was born



 

The most famous artwork of Andrea Del Verrocchio





January 2025

CooKISS team, B2

            

                AN INTERVIEW OF LEONARDO DA VINCI

1.    Where you were born and when?

         I was born near the Tuscan Town of Vinci on 15th April 1452

 

2.    What are your most famous or favourite paintings?

I have drawn several portraits. For example Madonna on the Rocks , The Last Supper and               Mona Lisa

 

3.    Your art often feels mysterious, Why’s that?

   Mystery speaks curiosity. It invites the viewer to think and imagine beyond the obvious

 

4.    If you could see the future, what would you excite you most?

Id be excited to see humanity advancing in science, technology and harmony with nature

 

5.    What advice would you give today?

Stay curious. Knowledge has no limits if you are observe and imagine.


Mona Lisa And Leonardo Da Vinci

January 2025

Mona Lisa, one of the most renowned paintings in the history of art, was created by the Italian master Leonardo da Vinci. This masterpiece, housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, has captivated the imaginations of viewers for centuries due to its enigmatic expression, exquisite technique, and the mystery surrounding its subject.



Leonardo da Vinci, born in 1452 in Vinci, Italy, was not just a painter but a visionary polymath whose contributions spanned the fields of anatomy, engineering, mathematics, and more. Known for his insatiable curiosity, Leonardo's approach to art and science was deeply intertwined. His understanding of human anatomy and the natural world infused his art with a realism and depth that set him apart from other artists of his time.

 

The Mona Lisa was likely painted between 1503 and 1506, though some scholars suggest Leonardo may have continued refining it even after. The portrait depicts a woman with an almost ethereal expression—her smile, subtle and mysterious, seems to change depending on the viewer's perspective. This illusion is attributed to Leonardo’s use of a technique called sfumato, a method that blends tones and colors to create a soft, almost smoky transition between light and shadow, giving the painting its lifelike quality.



The identity of the woman in the painting has long been debated, with the most accepted theory being that she is Lisa Gherardini, a Florentine woman married to a wealthy merchant named Francesco del Giocondo. This theory is supported by the name La Gioconda, the Italian version of "Mona Lisa," which refers to her married name.

 

Leonardo’s genius lies not just in his remarkable skill as an artist but also in his ability to convey profound psychological depth through his subjects. The Mona Lisa is no exception, with her smile and gaze evoking a sense of mystery and intrigue that has fascinated art lovers, scholars, and critics alike.



In addition to his work as an artist, Leonardo’s notebooks, filled with sketches, scientific observations, and designs for inventions, demonstrate his extraordinary vision and deep intellectual curiosity. His studies on human anatomy, engineering, and the natural world influenced not only his art but also the development of modern science.



The Mona Lisa remains an enduring symbol of Leonardo da Vinci’s brilliance, showcasing his mastery of technique and his ability to explore the depths of human emotion through art. More than just a portrait, it is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge that defined the Renaissance era.

By the Vikings team, B2


 Renaissance

January 2025

(B1, Blue team)





    The renaissance was a period in which individuals made a turn and primarily focused on the human. Additionally, it is called to be a transformative period between the Middle Ages and Modernity and it is often described as a rebirth of classical learning and wisdom.  The period originates from the 11th century in Italy and ends by the 1600s.

     Renaissance consists of numerous characteristics one of them being Humanism that emphasized the potential value and goodness of human beings and eventually promoted the study of subjects, such as philosophy, history and literature. Classical revival led to a new appreciation for balance symmetry and harmony, principals that were embedded in Greece and Roman art and architecture. Cultural exchanges: There was an increased trade and interaction with different cultures that brought a wealth of knowledge and ideas to Europe. There were many more characteristics such as Rediscovery of scientific advancements, economic growth and technological progress. The Renaissance Period had an important impact on the world. The population was becoming wealthier which led to an increase in trade and travel and the spread of new ideas. The rise in prosperity also generated interest in education, supported the flourishing of the arts and promoted scientific discoveries and new inventions. 



DIARY OF A PAINTER

January 2025

(B1, Knights of Justice team)




 

Dear diary,                                                                                                            18 May 1315, Italy

  My sweet diary, you are my dearest friend, as well as my biggest supporter, and yet, I've still to tell you my name. Oh, how unbefitting of a gentleman! My mother named me "Nessuno", quite funny isn't it? She named me "nobody" because I was born from and nobody, or so she has been telling herself every night since the day that airhead father of mine brought that nasty woman to our house. It was truly a nightmarish day.

  I've been suffering from insomnia lately, and being unable to sleep has caused me to hallucinate, or is doing so in my blood? I don't know what is and isn't reality anymore, everything's been passing by in a blur. I don't remember the last time I talked to a human being, if it even was a human being at all...

  I don't think that I'll last long. Poverty has latched it's claws on me and the continuous raids of the Germans have trained my mind, the only thing that still stayed with me even after all of my hardships. As if the Germans weren't enough, civilians have started an uprising trying to overthrow the nobles, just like in France. The thing that infuriates me and made me like this, is that my beloved WIFE AND UNBORN CHILD WERE KILLED, BY THOSE MONSTERS that started this whole coup d' état, those THINGS that are trying to rιd us of the "evil" that is the rich and yet, the nobles were not the ones that trampled on my wife's and child's bodies!

  My sweet and pure wife gone alongside with our baby, the child we've been so desperately trying for, years now, our only light in this world filled with darkness...

  I'm sorry for taking it out on you, I shouldn't have. Please don't be mad at me for tearing out your pages, your body, please you have to believe me, I'm not a violent man! How about we change the subject? I don't think I've ever told you my dream, right? I've always wanted to become a renowned painter you see, but since there were so many others way better than me, my parents sat me down to tell me to "wake up to reality and face it head on, instead of making unrealistic dreams". I never listen to them and that decision may have caused my downfall. The reason was that, I would walk from rise till noon and then focus on my paintings, thus bringing less money in and spending the already little money that we had, on my painting supplies which of course resulted in me and my wife arguing a lot.

 Oh, how much I regret it now, you can't even begin to fathom it! Had I known that she would have had such a short life, that I would never be able to see her smile and jewel-like eyes that reflected the sky every time she looked at me. Then, just then I wouldn't have caused her such worry and sorrow. But now, it's too late, they're both gone, in God's embrace. If anyone ever finds this diary, please remember my wife's name "Natalie". But most of all never forget to show your loved ones the love that they deserve, before it's too late and God takes them with him. Lastly remember to NEVER LET HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF!

  Your beloved Nessuno.







MY FAVOURITE ARTIST





KONSTANTINOS ARGIROS

December 2024

 

Konstantinos Argiros is a well-known Greek singer. We decided to write about him because he inspires many young people influencing them to develop their skills and talents. Argiros was born in 1986. He is married and has two siblings. He has released several singles and albums, five of which have achieved Platinum status. He started piano lessons at the age of five. He has won many awards for his unique voice. Prizes he has attained are: Best Male Adult, MAD Video Music Awards and many more. His most famous work includes: Athina, Iliovasilema, Ta matia sou eroteftika. He has performed in Greece, Cyprus, America, Russia, Australia, England and Jerusalem. Argiros has worked with a lot of prominent artists and is one of the most talented artists in Greece.

 



 

By Group A1 (A1)



TUPAC SHAKUR

December 2024

 

Tupac Amaru Shakur was born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York City. He grew up in a world filled with challenges. His mother, Afeni Shakur, was involved in the Black Panther Party, and Tupac was raised in a strong political and social environment. His family’s struggles with poverty and hardship influenced his music, art, and activism.

From a young age, Tupac showed a talent for music, acting, and poetry. He attended the Baltimore School for the Arts, where he made friends with future stars like Jada Pinkett. He was deeply inspired by his experiences in Baltimore, as well as by the pain and injustice he saw around him. Tupac's lyrics often spoke about social issues such as poverty, racism, and violence. His music became a powerful tool for expressing his feelings and connecting with people all over the world.


Tupac's big break came in the early 1990s when he joined the hip-hop group Digital Underground. He later launched his solo career with the album 2Pacalypse Now in 1991, which included songs about crime, police brutality, and inequality. His music was both loved and criticized, but his raw talent and fearless approach to discussing tough topics made him a star. Over the next few years, he released several successful albums, including Me Against the World and All Eyez on Me.

Despite his success, Tupac's life was filled with trouble. He had many legal issues and was often involved in violent conflicts with other musicians. On September 13, 1996, Tupac was tragically shot in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas. He died six days later at the age of 25. His death remains unsolved and continues to spark theories and discussions.

Tupac Shakur's legacy lives on through his music, poetry, and the message of resistance and hope he shared with the world. He is remembered as a talented artist who used his voice to speak out for those who were often unheard.

 

By the Purple Group (A2)



 Natasha Theodoridou

December 2024

 Our favorite singer is Natassa Theodoridou. She was born or 24th October 1970 in Thessaloniki and raised in Drama. Natassa is a Greek folk (λαϊκή) singer and she studied journalism and also attended guitar and harmony lessons. Natassa was married twice. Her first husband, Takis Betas, was a businessman and they got divorced in 1996. They have a daughter together Christianna. Then, she got re-married in 1999 until 2007 with a plastic surgeon, Andrea Foustanos, and she gave birth to her other daughter Andrianna. Natassa is the only female Greek artist to have her first three albums achieve platinum status. We really admire her, because she is a really beautiful, decent woman who, despite her big career in Greek music, stays humble and does not brag about her sucess.

 

                                       


 

By Baso and Fot (A1)




Eminem

December 2024                                                   


Marshal Bruce Mathers III (born on October 17th 1972) known by the stage name Eminem, is an American rapper. He also won an Academy Award for the song "Lose Yourself" from the 2002 film “8 Mile",starring himself, making him the first rapper in history to achieve such a feat. He was discovered by the rapper and producer Dr.Dre and singned a contract with the company Aftermath records and with Interscope Records.After that he created his own record company the Shady Records under   Innterscope .Until today he has sold over 170 million disks worldwide, making him one of the artists with the most sales among all of the rap community around the world. Eminem was married twice to Kimberly Anne Scott. He met Scott in high school while standing on a table with his shirt off rapping. In 1991 his then relationship moved in his apartment with his mother. Their daughter Hailie Jade, who is Eminem's biological child, was born on December 25, 1995.

 

 By The Four Team (A1)

 



EL CRECO

 January 2025

Dominicos Theotokopoulos was a Greek painter, known as El Greco. He was born on October 1, 1541 in Heraklion, Crete and died on April 7, 1614 in Toledo, Spain. Apart from painting, he was a sculptor and architect. He created most of his works in Italy and Spain because he lived most of the years of his life away from Greece. El Greco was originally trained as a Hagiographer, but when he went to Italy he was influenced by the masters of Italian art, such as Tintoretto. His technique is an expression of the Venetian school and Mannerism, but at the same time it is also characterized by his own original elements. His most important works are :



 

 

1.The Disrobing of Christ (1577–1579)

2.Assumption of the Virgin (1577–1579)

3.The Burial of the Count of Orgaz (1586–1588)

4.View of Toledo (1596–1600)

5.Opening of the Fifth Seal (1608–1614)

       


 

Why did El Greco left the Greece?

After working as an icon painter in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, he left Crete in 1568 to study western-style painting in Venice. There he was influenced by the Venetian artists Titian and Tintoretto , embracing their rich colors and free, sketchy manner of painting

 

Why is El Greco my favourite artist ?

El Creco is my favorite artist bacause he lived most of the years of his life away from his homeland and his family and traveled to Italy and Spain to exploit his talent .His interaction with other artists helped him adopt methods and knowledge to create his works. Finally, his paintings became well-known and he is among the most important and leading painters in the world.


By the Blue Sky team (A2)






Leonardo Da Vinci …. a polymath of the Renaissance

January 2025


Leonardo was born in 1452 and died in 1519. He was born in a metropolitan city near Florence and later on he was educated in the city of Florence. Da Vinci was an Italian polymath of the High Renaissance. He was a great painter and an incredible engineer.

He was also an intelligent theorist and a committed architect. As a theorist his most famous work is the Renaissance human ideal. He also worked on creating various paintings, some depicting human portraits like the famous Mona Lisa, while others concerning the anatomy of the human body, the most well-known one being The Vitruvian Man. His work inspired many younger generations of artists like Michelangelo. Generally, his lifetime work as a polymath shaped the western European culture and left a significant mark on the western world.
  

  Leonardo da Vinci was known for his incredible curiosity, creativity, and ability to think across many different fields. He was deeply curious about the world and explored areas like art, science, anatomy, engineering, and nature, often combining them in unique ways. His sharp eye for detail helped him notice things others missed, leading to new ideas and discoveries. Leonardo’s mind was full of creativity, and he imagined inventions like flying machines and tools for war that were far ahead of his time. Above all, he had a passion for learning and improving, as seen in his detailed notebooks full of sketches, ideas, and experiments that still inspire people today. Focusing on more common personality traits Da Vinci was a generous and polite man. The people close to him also describe him as a particularly generous person as he helped the poor and cared for the people around him.

We have chosen to write about this artist because he has been a great source of inspiration to even modern painters worldwide and he has been vital for the creation of the modern European Culture.

 

 

 

By The English Group (A2)


Edgar Degas

January 2025


Edgar Degas  was a French Impressionist artist famous for his pastel drawings and oil paintings. He was born on the 19th of July 1834 and he passed away on the 27th of September 1917. Edgar believed and stated:” the artist must live alone and his private life must remain unknown”. Technically, he differs from the impressionism in that he continually belittled their practice of painting “ en plein air”. He used bright dazzling colors, concentrating primarily on the effects of light, and hoping to infuse their scenes with immediacy. His most well-know painting is called “The Dance Class” in which he depicted some ballerinas mid-class, training for an important performance. Last but not least, he had two wives. For the one named Mary Cassatt we have a lots of information, compared to the other one named Suzanne Valadon for whom we got extremely minor information, only regarding her name.

In our perspective, Edgar Degas is a significant artist who can picture even the most simple things such as a rehearsal. He appreciates small detail and tries to empathize in every aspect of everything. 



 painting ” the dance class
By the SKZ team (A1)



KENDRICK LAMAR

January 2025

A2, The Freen Kingdom team 


 

Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, born on June 17, 1987, in Compton, California, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative rappers of his generation. Raised in Compton, a city known for its violence and poverty, Lamar's early experiences heavily shaped his music. He began his career as a teenager under the name K.Dot, releasing mixtapes and gaining local recognition. His debut studio album, Section.80 (2011), earned him widespread attention, but it was his second album, good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), that marked his breakthrough. The album, which chronicles his youth in Compton, blends intricate lyricism with themes of violence, family, and identity, making it both a commercial and critical success.

 

Lamar's next project, To Pimp a Butterfly (2015), cemented his status as one of the most unique voices in modern music. The album blends hip hop with jazz, funk, and spoken word, addressing racial issues, systemic oppression, and self-identity. It received universal acclaim and won several Grammy Awards. In 2017, he released DAMN., which further solidified his place in music history. The album, which explores personal struggles, fame, and societal issues, earned Lamar the Pulitzer Prize for Music, making him the first non-jazz or classical artist to win the prestigious award. His 2022 album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, continued his exploration of complex themes like mental health, family, and spirituality, showcasing his growth as both an artist and an individual.

 

Kendrick Lamar is known for his complex, introspective lyrics, his ability to weave personal and cultural narratives, and his innovative use of production. He has consistently challenged the boundaries of hip hop, blending various genres and addressing issues like race, mental health, and social justice. Beyond his music, Lamar is recognized for his advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities, using his platform to raise awareness about systemic racism and inequality. With numerous Grammy Awards and accolades, including being named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people, Kendrick Lamar continues to be a powerful force in both the music industry and social activism.

 

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