Art Nouveau Flashcards
When did art nouveau take place?
1890-1905
Why did the art nouveau movement take place?
Art Nouveau features
The concept of unity and harmony across the various fine arts and crafts media and the formation of new aesthetic values. Art Nouveau designers were heavily influenced by natural forms and interpreted these into sinuous, elongated, curvy lines and stylised flowers, leaves and buds. As a compliment to plant life, exotic insects and peacock feathers are often featured in the designs. It is often referred to as ‘feminine art’ due to its frequent use of languid female figures with long flowing hair. The arts and artefacts of Japan were a crucial inspiration for Art Nouveau; Japanese woodcuts, with asymmetrical outlines and the minimal grid structures provided vertical lines and height. Celtic, Arabian and ancient Greek patterns provided inspiration for intertwined ribbon patterns.
Who was Charles Rennie Macintosh?
Charles Rennie Macintosh was born in Glasgow and wanted to be an architect from a young age. At 16 he worked as an apprentice, whilst studying at the Glasgow School of Art. It was here that he met like-minded artists and formed the ‘Glasgow Four’. Through their paintings, graphics, architecture, interior design, furniture, glass and metalwork they created the ‘Glasgow Style’ of Art Nouveau, which influenced many designers throughout Europe.
In 1896, Mackintosh won the competition for the building of the new School of Art in Glasgow – a project which gave him an international reputation.
