Bathsheba

My name is Isabella, and I will be your guide today through one of our most impressive paintings: It's called "Bathsheba," and it was painted a long, long time ago, in 1645! It's so big, it almost takes up the whole wall! Does anyone know what a painting this big is called? (Pause for answers). Yes, it's a masterpiece! It was painted by a very talented woman artist named Artemisia Gentileschi. nn
nn This painting shows a woman named Bathsheba. She's from a very old story in the Bible. Look at her! She's sitting down, isn't she? She looks very calm and peaceful. But look closely – there are other women around her, helping her. One is fixing her hair. Another is holding something – maybe a mirror? What do you think she's doing? (Pause for answers). And one is holding a big bowl. What do you think is in the bowl? (Pause for answers). nn
nn The artist, Artemisia, was amazing at using light and shadow. See how some parts of the painting are really bright, and others are dark? That makes the people in the painting really stand out! It's like a spotlight shining on them. And look at the colors! There are lots of browns and reds, and even a little bit of gold. What do those colors make you feel? (Pause for answers). nn
nn This painting isn't just about a story from the Bible. It's also about a woman being strong and important. It shows us how women were important even a long, long time ago. Artemisia was a very brave artist, and she painted many pictures of strong women. What do you think makes Bathsheba strong? (Pause for answers). What do you think makes Artemisia strong? (Pause for answers). nn
nn So, next time you see a painting, remember to look closely! Look at the colors, the light, and the people. Think about what the artist is trying to tell you. And remember, art can tell us amazing stories from the past, and it can also tell us about people who were brave and strong, just like Artemisia and Bathsheba. Wasn't that fun learning about this amazing painting? Now, let's go see some more art!