The Mannerism art period had its beginning and end in the latter part of the Renaissance time period. Mannerism paintings are more obscure, leaning towards fantastical colors and awkward-seeming positions of the subjects. Artificial by nature, these paintings offer a stark contrast between the paintings of the Renaissance. The social condition which influenced Mannerism is contrarian in nature. Because Renaissance artwork was so classically influenced, Mannerism artists focused on something Renaissance paintings did not offer: artificiality.
The two art periods have a strong relationship, in that one is a direct reaction to the other. If the Renaissance had not existed as such, it is unlikely that the Mannerism artwork that was created at that time would have existed either. With that in mind, it is interesting to note the similarities and differences between the two periods. Renaissance artwork is soft, using lighter colors and depicting realistic portraits of its subjects. Mannerism is brighter, louder and offers a unique look at the awkward poses an artist can
Cited: The renaissance, reformation art and mannerism. (2012, September 09). Retrieved from http://wgu.mindedgeonline.com/content.php?cid=19778 Movements in the humanities: classicism & renaissance. (2012, September 09). Retrieved from http://wgu.mindedgeonline.com/content.php?cid=19864