Today, we’re going to be talking about an art style that you may or may not have seen.
While it has been revolutionary for centuries, you can still find it in every timeless decor item we see today. Curious to learn more about it? Let me cut to the chase and introduce you to the Art Nouveau style.
What is Art Nouveau style?
Art Nouveau is a term originated in France that translates to ‘new style’ in English. Emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, to rebel against the industrial revolution and its impact on the art industry. It became an art style that was found in every decor around you. Thinking about how you can spot it? It usually depicts flowing, and growing, moving motifs, which usually capture a movement, nature, geometric or even artistic beauty. For your better understanding, let’s picture this: curvy lines, flowing river, or leaves in the air, if you could capture its beauty in one aesthetic, it would be called Art Nouveau style.
Intrigued Already? Let’s Decode Its History
Did you know that the artists of Europe came together to bring this art to life in response to mass production and industrialization? It was a movement to revive the traditional craftsmanship, an attempt to bring back true art instead of monotonous repetitive designs. It got its name from an art gallery in Paris called ‘Maison de l’art Nouveau’, where artists got together to showcase their Art Nouveau pieces. Its popularity grew around the early 1890s and soon expanded to the USA. Slowly but steadily, its reach seeped into the accessories to interior decor, a true revolution!
Below are Some of The Popular Artists That Can’t Go Unmentioned in the Discussion of Art Nouveau–
1. Gustav Klimt(1862–1918):
An Austrian painter with a vision to bring European art to Austria, along with a group of painters. His popular artwork called ‘The Kiss’ has achieved notable popularity for its enticing appeal.
2. Aubrey Beardsley(1872–1898):
One of the most talked about artists of the Art Nouveau movement because of his remarkable contribution in the span of 7 years. His controversial depiction of Oscar Wilde’s play ‘Salome’ in Art Nouveau has made heads turn and widen eyes.
3. Alphonse Mucha(1860–1939):
Popular from his commercials and advertisements work, Mucha gained attention for his feminist work in the Art Nouveau movement.
Favorite Motifs and A Little Bit about Them:
Art Nouveau style is made of fun motifs that bring it to life, let’s break it down to understand its different motifs-
1. Whiplash curves:
‘Whiplash curves’ or also called flowing waves. It’s a transcending sight which captures the moving flowy lines. It’s an excellent opportunity to infuse a vitality factor.
2. Botanical and tropical:
Whether it be the beauty of plants or flowers, it is well-known for effortlessly adding a refreshing touch to Art Nouveau.
3. Asymmetrical:
Heading towards a non-traditional approach, Art Nouveau made headlines with asymmetrical lines and motifs. It aims to create a flow of art rather than following a set of rules.
4. Gold, Silver and Glass:
Art Nouveau is about building artwork that allows a glimpse of nature in city-life. Incorporating glass, silver, or glass in Art Nouveau style became a token of nature-inspired beauty in Art Nouveau.
Popular Art Nouveau Style From All Over The World
Now that we have discussed the motifs and their beloved artists, how can we miss discussing the places where Art Nouveau is present to this day?
1. Hector Guimard Paris’s metro:
In this location, you should prepare yourself to be stunned because Hector Guimard Paris’s metro is nothing short of a true art testament.
2. Antoni Gaudi Sargada Familia:
With Antoni Gaudi’s unique twist, he has brought a remarkable beauty to the Sargada Familia in Barcelona. The building’s organic flow of beauty truly embodies the charm of Art Nouveau.
3. Victor Horta’s Hotel Tassel:
Flaunting its curved ironwork and embraced with glass stain in Brussels, Victor Horta’s hotel has become one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau artefacts.
4. Louis Comfort Tiffany’s Glasswork:
His work brings Art Nouveau’s vision to life, from the colourful stained glass to the warm lamps. Some may also say after watching his work that ‘ it’s one way to bring in nature’s magic, indoor!’
5. Gustav Klimt Painting:
Do you recall when we were discussing Gustav’s being one of the well-known painters of the Art Nouveau movement? Well, his works, to this day, continue to be the centre of many conversations of many art enthusiasts because of their appealing visuals.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! From being a revolutionary movement to making its way to the interior decor, it has become a medium for many artist to capture their ideas in the real world. Whether it is about infusing the magic of Victor Horta’s hotel or Antoni Gaudi’s Sadargada familia, through Art Nouveau, transform your home into a haven of jaw-dropping masterpiece.