Moving from Dark to Light

Obscure and yet light… that may sound like a strange set of words to put together but this is what the Italian word Chiaroscuro derives from. The term has traditionally been used to describe an oil painting technique that rely on the contrasts between light and dark to emulate three-dimensional forms. – Steve Bicknell

Originating from the Renaissance, the most famous artists to have used this method are Giovanni Baglione (1566-1643), Caravaggio, (1573-1610) and Rembrandt (1606-1669). Mystery and depth have long since been conveyed through the manipulation of dark and light, especially in art, where painters darkened backgrounds and lit the forefront to create atmosphere. This method has successfully been adapted into film, creating the most iconic and recognisable imagery of cinematic history, think film noir.

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