Thursday, May 8, 2014

Impressionism (pt. 28)

Art Nouveau, just as an added note, developed around the 1890s and into the beginning of the 20th century as more than just an art style; it was kind of more like a way of living.  The movement was really more akin to overall fashion, and the ideological implications of its development go far beyond what studies of paintings can describe.  Inspired by the comprehensive look and feel and lifestyle-to-art approach of Japonism and Bohemianism (gypsy-like culture), Art Nouveau may have found its roots in art theory, but it quickly extended to much broader genres and mediums within everyday life, including: sculpture, architecture, furniture, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, clothing, and on and on.  A person's entire life, from the interior design of his house to the fashion of his clothes, could operate within this broad and eclectic style of…art/fashion/culture—it's difficult to label.  It grew to becoming an international phenomenon, and in my opinion the feel of Art Nouveau continues on to this day.  We can discuss its impact in contemporary culture as we move along, but right now I won't delve too much into it because we need to remain focused on Impressionism and where it will lead us in the history of Western art.

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