Week 2 Art Nouveau

The very ornamental Art Nouveau style was carried out in the United States and Europe through about 1890 to 1910. The style was used by many creators in different fields, architecture, interior design, jewelry making, illustration and more. The style was first created in England and then later carried through out Europe before making its way to the US. In Germany Art Nouveau was known as "Jungendstil", "Sezessionstiwl" in Austria, "Modernismo", in Spain, and "Stile Floreale" in Italy.

Dragonfly corsage ornament

One notable designer was Aubrey Beardsley a young illustrator that was influenced by Japanese woodcut design and Japanese fashion. Beardsley only lived to be 25 due to reoccurring illnesses but in just a short time created many notable pieces during the Art Nouveau period. He was probably the most controversial artist of the era due to his dark and sometimes erotic designs. Topics of work included mythology, concerning issues of history, and political cartoons. His work was featured in various books and magazine as well Oscar Wilde's play Salome. 

                                   The Climax                                   Venus between Terminal Gods

Whiplash Curve: The whiplash curve is one of the most frequently used techniques when it came to designing during the Art Nouveau period. The organic curvilinear line was repeated through different mediums and design applications. Although the movement was short-lived, the use of the superfluous ornamentation has left its mark on both old and new design. 

Whiplash Curve

Current Applications

Extra Credit: Here is a short video that showcases more of Aubrey Beardsley work. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiAx6j3sWZ4

Responses:

Bailey: I enjoyed how you included the literal meaning of the word "Art Nouveau"I didn't know that its simply meant "new art".

Becca: I loved how you focused on Gaudi, I love his colorful work. It is one of a kind. The line drawings of the building were also helpful.