Art Nouveau

The Art Nouveau period began in 1890 and lasted until 1910.  Belgium and France were the main leaders of this movement and it was during this time, Europe was peaceful and prosperous.  In addition, Art Nouveau was known for rejecting academic models, history,and the Victorian style.  It instead used nature as an inspiration for design.  This included trees, flowers, birds, vines, etc.  Besides the designs being based on nature, this movement used modern materials and techniques.  For example, the people from this period used iron and glass as well as industrial production as their form of technique.  Many of the interiors also used electric lighting and had curvilinear attributes.  Some of the influential designers and architects of this time were Victor Horta, Henry Van de Velde, and Hector Guimard.  Victor Horta was a Belgian architect, designer, and teacher.  His work during this movement was quite extensive.  He created unique iron rails and handles, twisted iron balconies, large window frames, and featured asymmetrical facades.  Henry Van de Velde was also important during this time.  He began as a Belgian painter and designed his own house in 1894.  His designs were very sculpture like.  Furthermore, he helped to clarify "ornamentation" vs. "ornament."  Finally Hector Guimard was the most significant figure in Paris at the time.  Apart from designing hotels, Guimard created the entrances for France's metro system.  Finally, Paris and the school of Nancy were major centers of Art Nouveau, in addition to being artistic and intellectual centers.

Past

Present

Extra Credit:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUyuoG2W2Ls