Week 3

 Art Nouveau

1890-1910


Art Nouveau was a design movement that incorporated modern technology and took inspiration from natural forms that rejected traditional and historical styles. It featured flowing lines, floral motifs, and curving shapes influenced by Japanese art. Designers used new materials like iron, glass, and ceramics. While this style began in Britain, Belgium and France became major centers. The style spread to Germany, Spain, and Scandinavia.

A couple of key figures include Victor Horta in Belgium, mainly known for his curving "whiplash" design in buildings like the Tassel House. Henry Van de Velde was known for creating sculptural and ergonomic furniture. In France, Hector Guimard designed the iconic Paris Metro entrances using prefabricated iron and glass. In Spain, Antoni Gaudí developed a highly personal, organic style, as seen in Casa Batlló and the Sagrada Familia. The movement also influenced fine arts, for example, Aubrey Beardsley and her bold black-and-white illustrations and Emile Gallé’s nature-inspired glasswork and furniture. Art Nouveau aimed to break away from the rigidness of the Victorian era, focusing on creating a fresh artistic approach that blended architecture, interior design, and fine arts.

Of this time period...

Tassel House by Victor Horta

Henry Van de Velde Kessler Diplomats Chair

Hector Guimard Paris Metro Station

My personal favorite...
Antoni Gaudí Casa Batlló


A little bit of his Sagrada Familia...



Current Applications


One Step Further:

Louis Comfort Tiffany was a key figure in the Art Nouveau movement, known for his innovative stained glass designs. He was a pioneer in the use of opalescent glass, which he richly colored and textured pieces for lamps, windows, and interiors. His beautiful work, such as the famous Tiffany lamps, blended craftsmanship and nature-inspired motifs, making him a leading force in decorative arts. Not to mention, he is the son of the founder of Tiffany and Co.










Comments

  1. Professor VanderNoordaaFebruary 8, 2025 at 1:26 PM

    Ruth,
    This was an outstanding Blog post! Your summary structure and images were beautifully woven together. I thought the images you chose for current applications were very strong. Louis Comfort Tiffany was a great choice for "one step further" 50/50 points

    ReplyDelete

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