1872 Opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is hands down, my favorite place to be in New York City. There is always so much to explore, especially if you hop on one of the excellent tours they have! When the museum first opened on February 20th 1872, it was not located in its present location, and would move once again before moving to 5th avenue, where it is today. The building where it now resides, represents many architectural styles due to numerous renovations over its lifetime. And the best part? Entrance fee is only a donation!

Feb 19, 1876 Birth of Constantin Brâncuși

Danaide, by Brâncuși

Constantin Brâncuși, the "patriarch of modern sculpture", was born in Romania on February 19th, 1876. His talent as a woodworker was recognized at a young age, and he would go on to study in Bucharest, Munich, and ultimately the École de Beaux-Arts in Paris.   

1404 Birth of Leon Battista Alberti

Facade of Santa Maria Novella

Leon Battista Alberti, born February 18th 1404, was one of the most influential humanists of the Renaissance. For Alberti, mathematics and science were the foundations of everything from art to music. Although an expert in many fields, his writings on architecture have made him most famous. Alberti's admiration of classical composition is represented in many of his works.

1854 The Death of John Martin

John Martin was an English romantic painter, engraver and illustrator. He lived from July 19th 1789, to February 17th, 1854. Before having established a career as an artist, Martin supported himself by giving drawing lessons, painting in watercolours, and designing glass and china. Eventually, his painting became his main source of income, and he would send several works to the Royale Academy. Martin's work can be categorized by the impressive nature of its subject matter, that seems overwhelmingly fanciful, and yet retains strong gravity and realism.