In this episode I discuss the new “Healing PTSD” and “Maine Statehood” stamps issued by the United States Postal Service. I have a BA in Psychology from the University of Vermont and I have PTSD from a roll over car accident on black ice from January of 2000 in Stowe, Vermont. I was so pleased to see this “Healing PTSD” stamp. Several members of my family have served in the military. Proceeds from this stamp will be distributed to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs which oversees the National Center for PTSD. The funds will be used to further research efforts into medications and psychotherapies for PTSD. The “Maine Statehood” stamp commemorates the 200th year of Maine Statehood. (I’m a native Mainer.) The stamp is an oil painting by Edward Hopper entitled “Sea of Ogunquit” from 1914.

In honor of my 21st podcast (insert smile here) I wanted to do something special and recall some of the fond memories I have as an Art History enthusiast. I discuss the “unwritten rules” of Art History class, my secret strategy for writing research papers, my short stint as a guard at a small art museum and what art historians can do with advanced degrees such as authentication and appraisal.

In this episode I discuss the painting thought to launch the Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood Art Movement which is “Christ In The House Of His Parents” by Sir John Everett Millais circa 1849-1850. The painting is located at the Tate Museum in London. I talk about the deep and complex symbolism in the painting and what made this painting so controversial during Victorian times. Later, I delve into other Pre Raphaelite artists, distinctive features of Pre Raphaelite paintings and some brief history of the Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood.

In this episode I review the many different implements and inks a calligrapher might use. I talk about fiber markers, fountain pens with ink cartridges, metal nibs that are dipped into ink and brushes that are dipped into ink. I also discuss fonts and questions you should ask a calligrapher for hire about fonts. Please feel free to check out my website at www.calligraphyconsultant.com. I have professional calligraphy experience and a Minor in Art History from the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont. I offer calligraphy consultations, transcription services and handwriting services. My email address is [email protected].

In this episode I chat about a variety of topics like my current favorite Podcasts, memories of my college radio years, and an upcoming show on The Pre Raphaelites including Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, and John William Waterhouse. I discuss my enjoyment of Podcasting and the prep work involved in each show.

In this episode I discuss the elements and the history of the Doric Order. I talk about all of the specific architectural vocabulary associated with the Doric Order. A brief overview of the Parthenon is given. The Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan and Composite Orders are mentioned.

In this episode I describe how Art Historians approach art. I use Salvador Dali’s “The Persistence Of Memory” from 1931 as an example. I talk about all of the different pieces of information that Art Historians examine. Please join me for this exciting and educational podcast!

In this episode I review the development and history of the Carolingian Minuscule font (aka the “Caroline Minuscule.”) I discuss Charlemagne and his Empire. The importance of “scriptoriums” is covered. Please be aware I made an error! Charlemagne’s rule ended in 814 AD (not 841 AD.) My sources for this podcast were: “The Calligrapher’s Bible: 100 Complete Alphabets And How To Complete Them” by David Harris, two Khan Academy videos, an article from the Dartmouth College “Ancient Books Lab” and the online version of Encyclopedia Brittanica. I also watched a few videos on how to write the Carolingian Minuscule font. One helpful video was done by Mii Shii Stationery and entitled “Calligraphy Practice: Carolingian Form” on YouTube. Lastly, I forgot to add that the “r” in this font is very distinctive and can be used to differentiate it from other fonts.

In this episode I ponder the triumphs and tribulations of being an Art Historian in the 21st century. I talk about good sources of information that are reliable and scholarly. Also, I discuss the possible format of future podcasts.

In this episode I remark upon one of my favorite paintings. I describe the details of the painting and review some of its historical background.