About Michelangelo

Michelangelo was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect and poet. He was born at Caprese, a son of the local magistrate. After his birth, his family returned to Florence. Michelangelo had desired to be an artist, even as a little boy. This desire was initially opposed by his father.

He apprenticed for three years under Dominica Ghirlandaio. He learned the rudiments of techniques of fresco painting from Ghirlandaio‘s workshop. Right after his apprenticeship, he was transferred to a school which was set up by Lorenzo the Magnificent in the Gardens of Palezzo Medicci. His works include two marble reliefs, Madonna of the Steps and Battle of the Centaurs, and of course the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. In the latter part of his life, he became involved in poetry and architecture. He helped with the design of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. He also worked for the Medici family and for popes, so he was able to enjoy a lot of his popularity, even while he was still alive.

Michelangelo’s mother died young. He was six years old at the time. Because of that, his childhood was grim and because of a lack of affection, he was always to retain a taciturn disposition. He was touchy and quick to respond with violent words. He tended to keep to himself, out of shyness, according to some, but for others, a lack of confidence in his fellow man. Even so, he strove to be a good man and a good artist, overcoming adversity every way he knew how. He is one of the greatest minds and greatest artists of all time.

 

Books on Michelangelo

Michelangelo on Vision

 "I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free."

 "Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it."

"The marble not yet carved can hold the form of every thought the greatest artist has."

Michelangelo on Goals

"The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it."
 

Michelangelo on Belief

"Faith in oneself is the best and safest course."

Michelangelo on Patience

"Genius is eternal patience."

Michelangelo on Learning

"I am still learning.”
 

Michelangelo on Self-Actualisation

"I hope that I may always desire more than I can accomplish."
 

Michelangelo on Perseverance

"If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful at all."
 

Michelangelo on Time Management

"There is no greater harm than that of time wasted."