@ibukun_dami Johan is not particularly a "breakout" star at this tournament.
The young man has been ripping it up in the Bundesliga and Europa League last season and a little before that. Himself alongside the likes of Griffo and Matanovic have been at the core of Freiburg's team.
This is Carl-Nikolas. He's 25 years old.
I want to make him famous.
That's why I've just commissioned his biggest painting yet: a life-sized portrait of St. Catherine of Siena.
Over the coming weeks, I'm going to share the entire "making of" process with you, from sketches to studies and the inner workings of patronage itself. There are several reasons why I want to do this:
1) To shed light on the fact that there are still people making great art.
Amidst the copypasta lamentations of “we don’t know how to do it anymore”, it is more important than ever to highlight those doing the real work and stewarding the flame of the Great Tradition.
2) To explore the life and spirituality of Saint Catherine of Siena.
She is one of the greatest women to have ever lived, but is regularly misunderstood even by practicing Catholics.
However, she's one of the best examples you can look to to navigate the chaos of the modern world. This project will help illustrate why.
3) To highlight the importance and role of patronage in the modern day.
Contrary to popular belief, patronage doesn’t mean giving handouts to starving and ungrateful artists. You can still use it to build relationships and exert power.
It's also never been easier to do. If you want to learn how to become a Medici-like patron in your own right, follow me for more.
4) To pour gasoline on the career of Carl-Nikolas and win him the attention he deserves.
Remember, this kid is 25 years old. He wants to open an academy of sacred art in Rome one day, and I want to make that dream a reality. If you are in a position to support his work, even if just by making an introduction, DM me.
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The responsibility of passing down the Great Tradition doesn’t fall to others. It falls to each of us.
As for me, I'm doing my bit. You can do yours by sharing this post and helping get the word out about Carl-Nikolas.
To see more of his work, check out the replies to this post.
Lastly, if you are a talented, up-and-coming artist, fill out the form in the link in my bio. I’m building a network of patrons to whom I promote hidden gems. “Great but undiscovered” is exactly what I’m looking for.
The New Renaissance is upon us. The only question is, what role will you play in it?