Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a genre that represents a very significant time in history. The turn of the 19th century into the 20th was an era of great change. People were experiencing the wonders of technology and industry for the first time. This change brought on a new style of art that reflects this wonder and awe.

Many believe that Art Nouveau is the predecessor to the well known geometric designs found in later artistic endeavors, especially the Art Deco movement. People were transitioning from natural landscapes into the industrial clean edges and perfect patterns found in 20th century artwork.

Architecture and decoration are key elements in this movement toward geometrical design. Art Nouveau had its inception during the 1890’s. This era looked forward to the new century with a whole new attitude about art and beauty. This new attitude reflected a revolutionary way of living.

As people began to enter the urban scene, they began to see new inspiration in their modern surroundings. Older traditions were fading into the wayside for some and untraditional lifestyles were emerging on to the scene. Art Nouveau sought a balance between tradition and the new age.

While many artists were drawn to the emerging industry and technology, others were harkening back to traditional art forms. Art Nouveau was a kind of response to the Industrial Revolution that attempted to merge the traditional themes with newer, more geometric designs.

You can find many elements in Art Nouveau that embrace traditional themes including mythology and fairies but this revolutionary approach to artwork takes these traditional pieces to new heights. The industrial perspective is quite evident in even the most traditional themes.

The balance between old and new is never easy to maintain. However, Art Nouveau managed to present traditional themes in an entirely new way. The fresh perspective changed the way we saw art as a society. People began recognizing artistic qualities in everyday objects including fashion and jewelry. Furniture began to reflect the Art Nouveau movement during the turn of the century. Homes embraced the new forms as well as the new colors indicative of this revolutionary time in art history. Styles began to change in the home as well as in the wardrobe. Art Nouveau brought aesthetics to every aspect of the average person’s life. With the turn of the 21st century, Art Nouveau has reemerged on the scene. Many people are embracing this artistic movement that is now 100 years old. Perhaps Art Nouveau has a place in history once again.