Why Are There No Living Great Painters Like Caravaggio, Monet, Da Vinci, and Van Gogh Nowadays?

I have asked this question many times, and often received dismissive answers. I suspect that it has more to do with the times, the rapid pace of life, and the fact that the heart, soul, and talent are not always present in the modern context.

Discovering Undiscovered Talent

Many will tell you that there are no great living painters, but that is far from the truth. I personally know of a few hundred painters, and while some of their work leaves me cold, there are many breathtaking pieces that captivate me. This does not mean that they are not worth looking at. Lack of awareness and presumption are not the same thing. There is a wealth of talent out there, and it's only a matter of time before these artists find the spotlight they deserve.

Contemporary Great Painters

There are indeed many great living painters working today, and some of them have been recognized for their exceptional talent. In the last 100 years, the art world has glorified expression over technique, so there hasn't been much recognition for classically trained artists. However, in the last 10 to 15 years, there has been a resurgence of academic painting. Some living artists to consider are Cesar Santos, Graydon Parrish, Jacob Collins, Roberto Ferri, and many more.

These artists are often associated with ateliers like Grand Central Academy of Art or the John Angel Academy. The caliber of work produced by these young artists is truly remarkable. Unlike most college programs that focus on shock value and expression, these ateliers teach sound techniques over a four-year program that produces brilliant painters.

The Evolution of Artistic Talent

Great artists like Caravaggio, Monet, Da Vinci, and Van Gogh were born out of specific historical and cultural contexts. Today, the landscape of art is constantly evolving, and only a select few will stand the test of time. It is essential to recognize that the field of contemporary art is vast, and history will likely winnow the field to reveal whose work the world values in the long run.

So, the question of whether there are no great living painters like the greats of the past is a complex one. While some argue that our modern world lacks the heart, soul, and talent to produce great art, there are many talented artists working today. It is up to us to embrace the diversity of contemporary art and discover the new masters of our time.

Artistic talent is alive and well, and with the right exposure and recognition, today's great painters will find their place in the annals of art history. Let us continue to explore and appreciate the evolving world of contemporary art.