Pure Ornament

On the evening of April 4, 2013 Ann Long Fine Art in Charleston SC will host the inaugural exhibition of work from the Academy of Classical Design titled ‘Pure Ornament’. Until recent times, the study of ornament was a regular part of an art student’s training, like anatomy or perspective, especially for those interested in mural painting. Artists from Michelangelo to Sargent have been expected to learn the language of ornament along with the ability to represent nature, and in doing so, develop the discernment to apply both in architectural decoration, often with astonishing results.

* The Academy’s Director D. Jeffrey Mims will deliver an introductory lecture titled ‘Pure Ornament‘ at 6:00 on April 3 at the Charleston Library Society. This event is being sponsored by Ann Long Fine Art , The Charleston Library Society , and the Charleston Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture .