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Round Paintings: Why are they suddenly so popular?

Round Paintings: Why are they suddenly so popular?

Round paintings, often referred to as tondos, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity within the New Zealand contemporary art scene. This circular format offers artists a novel way to express their creativity, in a different way, deviating from the conventional rectangular canvas that has long dominated the art world.

The growing interest in round canvases and the availability of them, reflects a broader trend in contemporary art, where experimentation with non-traditional formats is becoming more common.

From stunning historical masterpieces to our modern interpretations, round paintings are capturing the imagination of both artists and collectors, making them an exciting and integral part of New Zealand's vibrant art landscape.

The Profound Historical Significance of 'Tondo'


The concept of round artwork isn't new. Historically, circular paintings were referred to as 'tondo,' a term that comes from the Italian word 'rotondo,' simply meaning round. These works were often set within a square frame with a circular image at the centre, (As shown in the image below) resembling a round opening in a mat or an ornate frame.

This style was particularly popular during the Renaissance, where tondos were used for religious and portrait art, adding a sense of intimacy as well as creating a focus on the subject matter.

Example of a renaissance tondo artwork

Famous Round Paintings: A Glimpse into Art History

Many famous examples of round paintings, or tondos, illustrate the versatility and unique aesthetic of this format that has been a part of art history for centuries. One of the most renowned tondos to note is Michelangelo's "Doni Tondo" (circa 1507), a masterpiece that can be found in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. This work, which was commissioned by the Doni family, is celebrated for its dynamic composition and rich vivid colours. It captures the Holy Family with an extraordinary sense of movement and depth, which is accentuated by the circular form.

Another significant round painting in history is Sandro Botticelli's "Madonna of the Magnificat" (circa 1481), also housed in the Uffizi Gallery. This tondo is of the Virgin Mary being crowned by two angels while writing the Magnificat, a beautiful and serene composition that showcases Botticelli's mastery of line and form. The round shape is perfectly suited to this paintng, and enhances the intimate and divine nature of the scene, drawing the viewer's eye to the centre of the composition.

In more recent times, the famous Gustav Klimt of 'The Kiss' artwork explored using the round format in his work "The Beethoven Frieze" (1902), and in particular, in the circular panel known as "The Choir of Angels." Klimt's use of the circular tondo within this larger frieze created a harmonious and symbolic representation of the chorus, emphasising the unity and cyclical nature of music and life.

These famous round paintings are only a hint of what can be seen. they demonstrate how some of the greatest artists in history have used the tondo format to convey both religious reverence and artistic innovation.

And whats more, they serve as an inspiration for contemporary artists in New Zealand and around the world who continue to explore the possibilities of round canvases in their own work. For example, here is one of my round artworks.

Round artwork by Collette Fergus

Challenges and Solutions: Mastering the Art of Working with Round Canvases

It wasnt that long ago, that round canvases were difficult to come by, and artists had to either custom-make their frames or use heavy boards as an alternative. The challenge of sourcing these materials, along with the specialised framing required, made round canvases a less accessible option for many artists as they were and still are quite expensive.

However, today, more art supply stores in New Zealand do offer some affordable round canvases in various sizes, making it easier for artists to experiment with this format. Brands like Fredrix provide a range of high-quality round canvases, which cater to the growing demand.

round-oval-canvas-to-paint

The Versatility of Round Canvases in Contemporary Art

While traditionally used for portraits or still life, round canvases are proving to be really versatile in contemporary art. However not every subject works with the circular format. Many do and often in surprising ways.

One of the works at the Waikato Painting and Printmaking Awards 2010 was of a scene based on something the artist saw in India, it had a surreal feel to it and stood out to me more so for the fact it had a strip of black and white road edging going through it at an angle that I feel wouldn’t have worked so well on a traditional rectangular canvas.

Yet most artists including myself would not have even considered a round canvas as an option. I think Ill be looking more seriously at them from now on.

Tips for Stretching Your Own Round Canvas

If you're considering stretching your own round canvas, be prepared for a challenge. Unlike our standard square or rectangular canvases, which are relatively straightforward to stretch, round canvases require a different technique.

Instead of stapling opposite sides, you'll need to start with a single staple, then pull the fabric diagonally across to form an equilateral triangle. Continue working around the edges, and alternating sides to ensure the canvas remains smooth and wrinkle-free.

While it's more time-consuming, the result is worth the effort, especially when using a convex canvas that adds a 3D effect to your work.

Check out this video, HOW TO STRETCH A ROUND CANVAS on youtube, its a short snippet and doesnt show any detail but you will get the general idea.

how-to-stretch-a-round -canvas

My Journey with Round Paintings: Embracing the Circular Canvas

As a New Zealand contemporary artist, I've always been drawn to exploring new formats and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. The inspiration to work with round canvases came from a very personal place, the large stained glass round window in my home.

With its intricate design and harmonious shape, this window sparked a fascination with the circular form, leading me to embrace round canvases in many of my works.

One of my notable pieces, The Winners Ball, (main image) was created on a Fredrix convex canvas. The sloping edges of the canvas allowed me to enhance the 3D effect of the painting, making the cricket ball depicted in the artwork appear as if it's almost leaping off the canvas. This effect adds depth and dimension that I find particularly exciting in round formats.

 

The Last Game a round painting of a football or soccer ball by Collette Fergus

Another work of mine, The Last Game,(pictured above) is a mixed-media piece that features a football (or soccer ball, depending on your location). The convex edges of the round canvas again played a crucial role in bringing the ball to life, giving it an almost tangible presence that draws viewers in.

These experiences with round canvases have shown me how this format can truly elevate a piece of art, offering something unique and visually striking. It's a format I've come to love and one that I believe adds a distinctive touch to any art collection.

Conclusion: Round Artworks

Round paintings are becoming an integral part of New Zealand contemporary art, offering artists a new dimension of creativity and a fresh visual experience for viewers.

Whether you're an artist considering a new format or an art enthusiast looking to expand your collection, round canvases present a unique and exciting opportunity in the art world.

Don't forget to take a look at my original nz art for sale where you will find some round paintings

Posted: Monday 15 March 2010

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