Elegance. Classicism. Brilliance. These words are commonly associated with the relationship between Italian art and fashion. From Jan. 17 to March 27, imported from the Casa Buonarotti in Florence, Italy, Michelangelo’s original drawings are displayed at the Phoenix Art Museum. Milan’s designer, Gianfranco Ferre’s designs and reinvention of the white shirt are also on exhibition until March 6.

Michaelangelo’s drawings seem to hurl the notion that the art of the Renaissance was just made to be aesthetically pleasing. While the drawings depict figures with proportional to canonical features, the hurried rush of the black chalk across the surface denotes power. The expression of his figures are raw and almost coarse.

Even with the absence of color in the images, the expression of light and darkness still provide the figures with an elevated sense of drama. Yet, the overall sense of grace still pervades the atmosphere. The art is both palatable and agitated, an odd paradox for such an accomplished artist. But, his genius is evident.

Gianfranco Ferre’s designs and reconceived notions about the white shirts are on display. Like Michaelangelo, his works and both elegant and minimalist. However, the overall sense of a detail-oriented effortlessness is still present. The tailored shirts seem to be swanlike. A sense of glamour, associated with the runways of the world, cling to the audacious dresses. The whole exhibit has a “Devil wears Prada” feeling with the fabulous designs of Ferre enveloping the modern clothes.

The general peaceful atmosphere of the Phoenix Art Museum is now bustling and electric due to the presence of these two exhibits. As Michelangelo said, “I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.” The vibrancy of these exhibits certainly set the gallery space free.