Pensive Pondering
To help promote people’s artistic juices flowing, the Getty Museum has even posted a helpful guide on their website that gives tips on choosing an artwork, get the best light, and, finally, share on social media platforms.
Who said you need a paintbrush and canvas to modernize this masterpiece? It might not be the exact replica but it comes pretty close!
Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear
Van Gogh was famous for his self-portraits; they were frank statements of his self-perception at the time when he struggled with mental illness. His paintings were notable for their emotion and color — but unfortunately, he remained destitute and mostly unknown throughout his life.
Kevin James did well in his rendition, good thing he has an old tobacco pipe, we never see those anymore!
The Astronomer
Ann Zumhagen-Krause nailed this reenactment of a Vermeer masterpiece; she got her husband involved—it seems they are both art enthusiasts. They covered a table with a patterned blanket, added a globe, found a chair with the same outline, and after some fun posing for the shot, it's almost picture perfect.
The light coming in the window is just right for the mood, and we bet they had a blast setting it up!
Artist and Amateurs
With so many being isolated at home, people are feeling restless to do something, so this has been a pleasant way to have a community not only with those closest to us but also with friendly strangers on the world-wide-web.
If this challenge has done anything really, it's built a community for people who love and appreciate art, whether or not they're an artist.
Snacks
It's not quite the same spread, but the attempt is certainly close enough. This Twitter user abandons having tea in fancy china, with buttered bread and opts for soda instead and sandwiches as he modernizes this still life.
This comparison is a clear reminder of how times have changed, with our modern diet becoming more focused on convenience and less about ritual.