Art Nouveau

The Art Nouveau movement took place between 1890-1914. It was a new style in the visual arts and architecture that developed in Europe and North America. It was established as the first new decorative style of the twentieth century at the 1900 Worlds Fair. Art Nouveau was an attempt to create an international style based upon decoration and in many ways might be seen as a response to the industrial revolution. Many artists welcomed the new technological progress as it brought about new materials such as cast iron. Others rejected the mass produced goods and aimed at applying the highest standard of craftsmanship and design to everyday objects.

Too many, Art Nouveau was the first modern style as it was the first to be promoted by mass communications. The makers of Art Nouveau objects sold their ideas through magazines, journals, trade fairs and exhibitions. It was also the first style that made an attempt at dealing with modern psychology and sexuality. The idea that you can have a sexy chair, or an erotic wardrobe all began with the Art Nouveau. Everyday emotions were expressed through objects in an expressive decorative style.