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Art Nouveau
An artistic movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries characterized by organic forms and flowing lines inspired by nature.
Modernity
A philosophical shift occurred in the 19th century, starting to see time as cyclical, with periods of ending and new beginnings. This influences artists to explore new ideas and forms in response to advancements in technology and society.
Break from tradition (3)
(1) “Deadlock” of historical references, seen as a limitation that prevents progress.
(2) Fixed rules and restrictions: desire for innovation prompted a rejection of rules imposed by architecture schools.
(3) Rejection of bombastic ornamentation: the 19th century saw a growing dissatisfaction with excessive ornamentation, leading to cleaner, more organic forms.
Second Industrial Revolution
It was a period of rapid industrial growth, marked by technological innovations like electricity and machinery.
Globalization through trade allowed for the exchange of ideas, impacting global architecture.
New psychological and philosophical theories (Nietzche, Freud) contributed to the revolution of societal values.
Core Principles of Art Nouveau (2)
(1) Ornamentation and form: Ornamentation is not just decorative but integral to the architectural form. It emerges from natural shapes and is in harmony with the structure. Ornamentation should enhance and complete the architectural form rather than merely decorate it.
(2) Creative use of materials: Modern elements such as iron and glass, typically left visible rather than concealed, were innovatively utilized to formulate fluid and organic designs that mirror the natural environment.
Key Figures: Victor Horta
An architect credited with launching the Art Nouveau movement. He pioneered the integration of organic and flowing forms with structural elements.
Hôtel Tassel, Brussels (1892)
This is a key example of Art Nouveau, showcasing the principles of the movement through its innovative use of space, light, and organic forms.
Iron beams were exposed. Windows are larger.
Ornaments merge with objects, objects themselves become an ornament.
Key Figures: Henry van de Velde
An influential figure in the Art Nouveau movement who promoted the idea that ornamentation shapes form and should be deeply connected with nature (Cigar Shope, Berlin)
Cigar Shop, Berlin (1899)
Interior blurred lines between furniture and architecture.
Creation of a unified design, every object contributed to te overall aesthetic.
Furniture is alive, merged with the space. Dynamic environment
Thematic connection to society (2)
(1) Women’s empowerment and comfort - the need for comfort and freedom (eg. flowing dresses) - reflects periods’ desire for more natural unrestricted forms.
(2) Need for harmony between form and function.
Sagrada Familia
A basilica in Barcelona designed by Antoni Gaudí, known for its unique, organic design and structural elements that resemble natural forms.
Héctor Guimard
A French architect known for his design of the entrances of the Paris Métro, using artistic cast iron and organic design.
Mirror Use in Design
The employment of mirrors in interiors to create an illusion of space and enhance spatial perception.
