Become a member and save up to 17% on your program registration price! Join today If you are already a member, log in to access your member price. From Shepherd to Hero: The Artistic Evolution of David Art-full Friday, Live from Italy Afternoon Lecture/Seminar Friday, May 23, 2025 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET Code: 1D0096 Location: This online program is presented on Zoom. Earn ½ elective credit toward your World Art History certificate Select your Registration Login $25 Member 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 $30 Non-Member Adding to your cart... Add to cart Log in to add this program to your wishlist! A 10% processing fee will be applied at checkout. Resize text Sculptures of David by Donatello (left, Patrick A. Rodgers/CC BY-SA 2.0); Gian Lorenzo Bernini (center); and Michelangelo (right, Jörg Bittner Unna/CC BY-SA 3.0) The figure of David has captivated artists and audiences for centuries, embodying faith, heroism, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. From the Middle Ages to the Baroque era, his image undergoes a fascinating transformation—from symbolic, stylized depictions to a dynamic, humanized hero. Each evolution in his portrayal reflects broader shifts in cultural values, artistic techniques, and societal contexts. Art historian Elaine Ruffolo examines key works by masters such as Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini, showcasing how each reimagines David to reflect evolving ideas of faith, heroism, and humanity. These portrayals highlight the profound impact of artistic innovations—like the Renaissance revival of classical ideals and the Baroque focus on movement and emotion—on societal and theological changes. David’s image emerges as a powerful marker of artistic expression, theological insight, and humanist philosophy. The evolution of his portrayal—from medieval allegory to Baroque drama—reveals the intricate intersection of art, faith, and society, offering a compelling lens through which to explore centuries of artistic innovation and cultural change. Additional Art-full Friday Programs March 21: Donatello: Artist of the Florentine Renaissance April 11: Botticelli: Money, Beauty, and Repentance General Information View Common FAQs and Policies about our Online Programs on Zoom.
