emerged as a distinctive Post-Impressionist style in the late 19th century. It emphasized subjective expression through , flat colors, and , rejecting naturalistic representation in favor of emotion and symbolism.
Key figures like Gauguin, Bernard, and Anquetin developed Cloisonnism, drawing inspiration from medieval stained glass, Japanese prints, and folk art. The style influenced later movements like the Nabis and contributed to the evolution of modern art.
Origins of Cloisonnism
Cloisonnism emerged as a distinctive style within the Post-Impressionist movement in the late 19th century
Developed by a group of artists who sought to break away from the naturalistic approach of Impressionism
Emphasized a more subjective and expressive approach to painting that prioritized emotion and symbolism over realistic representation
Synthetism vs Cloisonnism
Top images from around the web for Synthetism vs Cloisonnism
Allen | Reframing Stained Glass in Nineteenth-Century Britain: Culture, Aesthetics, Contexts ... View original
and Cloisonnism are closely related artistic movements that emerged in the late 19th century
Both styles prioritized a simplification of forms, bold outlines, and
Cloisonnism is considered a more specific subset of Synthetism, characterized by its emphasis on bold outlines and stained glass-like quality
Gauguin's role in development
played a central role in the development of Cloisonnism
Gauguin's paintings from his time in Brittany and Tahiti exemplified the style's emphasis on simplified forms, bold outlines, and flat areas of color
Gauguin's work helped to establish Cloisonnism as a distinct artistic movement and influenced many younger artists
Bernard's role in development
was another key figure in the development of Cloisonnism
Bernard's paintings, such as "Breton Women in the Meadow," exemplified the style's decorative quality and rejection of naturalistic representation
Bernard worked closely with Gauguin and helped to refine the principles of Cloisonnism
Anquetin's role in development
was also an important contributor to the development of Cloisonnism
Anquetin's paintings, such as "Avenue de Clichy: Five O'Clock in the Evening," demonstrated the style's emphasis on bold outlines and simplified forms
Anquetin collaborated with Gauguin and Bernard in the development of the Cloisonnist aesthetic
Defining features of Cloisonnism
Cloisonnism is characterized by a set of distinctive formal and stylistic features that set it apart from other artistic movements of the time
The style prioritized a subjective and expressive approach to painting that emphasized emotion and symbolism over realistic representation
Cloisonnism sought to create a new kind of decorative and symbolic art that drew on a range of non-Western and historical influences
Bold outlines vs natural contours
One of the most distinctive features of Cloisonnism is its use of bold, black outlines to define forms
These outlines are not naturalistic contours, but rather serve to flatten and simplify forms into abstract shapes
The bold outlines give Cloisonnist paintings a stained glass-like quality and emphasize their decorative nature
Flat areas of color
Cloisonnism is also characterized by its use of flat, unmodulated areas of color
Colors are applied in broad, uniform patches with little or no shading or modeling
The flat areas of color contribute to the overall decorative quality of Cloisonnist paintings and reinforce their emphasis on simplified forms
Simplified forms
Cloisonnism prioritizes a simplification and abstraction of forms
Objects and figures are reduced to their essential shapes and contours, with little concern for naturalistic detail
The simplified forms give Cloisonnist paintings a primitive, almost childlike quality that reflects the artists' interest in non-Western and historical art
Decorative quality
Cloisonnism places a strong emphasis on the decorative quality of painting
Paintings are often composed like tapestries or stained glass windows, with flat areas of color and bold, rhythmic patterns
The decorative quality of Cloisonnist paintings reflects the artists' rejection of naturalistic representation in favor of a more symbolic and expressive approach
Rejection of illusionistic space
Cloisonnism rejects the illusionistic space of traditional Western painting
Instead of creating a sense of depth through perspective and modeling, Cloisonnist paintings emphasize the flatness of the picture plane
The rejection of illusionistic space contributes to the overall decorative and symbolic quality of Cloisonnist paintings
Influences on Cloisonnism
Cloisonnism drew on a range of non-Western and historical influences in its development
The style reflected a broader interest among artists in primitivism and the art of non-Western cultures
Cloisonnist artists sought to create a new kind of symbolic and expressive art that drew on these diverse influences
Medieval stained glass
One of the key influences on Cloisonnism was medieval stained glass
The bold outlines and flat areas of color in Cloisonnist paintings are reminiscent of the leaded glass windows of Gothic cathedrals
Cloisonnist artists were drawn to the symbolic and decorative quality of medieval stained glass and sought to incorporate these elements into their own work
Japanese woodblock prints
Another important influence on Cloisonnism was , or ukiyo-e
Cloisonnist artists were drawn to the flat, decorative quality of Japanese prints and their use of bold outlines and simplified forms
The influence of Japanese art can be seen in the flattened perspective and emphasis on pattern in many Cloisonnist paintings
Folk art
Cloisonnism was also influenced by various forms of folk art, including medieval tapestries, primitive sculpture, and children's art
Cloisonnist artists were drawn to the simplicity and directness of folk art and sought to incorporate these qualities into their own work
The influence of folk art can be seen in the naïve, almost childlike quality of many Cloisonnist paintings
Key works of Cloisonnism
Cloisonnism is exemplified by a number of key works that demonstrate the style's distinctive formal and stylistic features
These works reflect the diverse influences and artistic goals of the Cloisonnist movement
Many of these key works are now considered masterpieces of Post-Impressionist art and have had a lasting impact on the development of modern painting
Vision of the Sermon by Gauguin
"Vision of the Sermon" (1888) is one of Paul Gauguin's most famous Cloisonnist paintings
The work depicts a group of Breton women listening to a sermon, with the figure of Jacob wrestling an angel in the background
The painting exemplifies Cloisonnism's use of bold outlines, flat areas of color, and simplified forms to create a symbolic and expressive image
Breton Women in the Meadow by Bernard
"Breton Women in the Meadow" (1888) is a key work by Émile Bernard that demonstrates the decorative quality of Cloisonnist painting
The work depicts a group of Breton women in a stylized, almost abstract landscape, with flat areas of color and bold, rhythmic patterns
The painting reflects Bernard's interest in creating a new kind of symbolic and decorative art that drew on non-Western and historical influences
Avenue de Clichy: Five O'Clock in the Evening by Anquetin
"Avenue de Clichy: Five O'Clock in the Evening" (1887) is a notable work by Louis Anquetin that exemplifies Cloisonnism's rejection of naturalistic representation
The painting depicts a Parisian street scene in a highly stylized and simplified manner, with flat areas of color and bold, black outlines
The work reflects Anquetin's interest in creating a new kind of urban landscape painting that emphasized the decorative and expressive qualities of the medium
Impact of Cloisonnism
Cloisonnism had a significant impact on the development of modern art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
The style's emphasis on simplification, abstraction, and symbolic expression influenced a range of later artistic movements
Cloisonnism's legacy can still be seen in the work of many 20th century artists who sought to push the boundaries of traditional representation
Influence on Nabis movement
Cloisonnism had a direct influence on the Nabis, a group of French artists who emerged in the 1890s
The Nabis, which included artists such as Pierre Bonnard and Édouard Vuillard, adopted many of the formal and stylistic innovations of Cloisonnism
The Nabis' emphasis on decorative patterning, flat areas of color, and symbolic expression can be traced back to the influence of Cloisonnist artists such as Gauguin and Bernard
Contribution to evolution of modern art
Cloisonnism played an important role in the evolution of modern art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
The style's rejection of naturalistic representation and emphasis on formal experimentation paved the way for later avant-garde movements such as Fauvism and Expressionism
Cloisonnism's interest in non-Western and primitive art also helped to broaden the scope of modern art and challenge traditional notions of beauty and representation
Legacy in 20th century art
The legacy of Cloisonnism can be seen in the work of many 20th century artists who sought to push the boundaries of traditional representation
Artists such as Henri Matisse, André Derain, and Maurice de Vlaminck were influenced by the bold colors and simplified forms of Cloisonnist painting
The decorative quality and symbolic expression of Cloisonnism also had an impact on later movements such as Art Nouveau and Symbolism
Key Terms to Review (21)
Avant-garde: Avant-garde refers to innovative and experimental ideas and practices in art, music, and literature that challenge traditional norms and conventions. This term is closely tied to movements that push boundaries, often leading to the creation of new artistic styles and approaches, as seen in various art forms from the late 19th century onward.
Bold outlines: Bold outlines refer to strong, dark lines used to define shapes and forms in art, creating a clear separation between elements. This technique emphasizes contours and gives a graphic quality to the work, often enhancing visual impact. In particular, it is associated with styles that prioritize flatness and decorative aspects over depth and realism.
Cloisonnism: Cloisonnism is an artistic technique characterized by bold, flat areas of color separated by dark outlines, resembling the craftsmanship of cloisonné enamel. This style emerged as a response to Impressionism and aimed to convey more structure and clarity in painting, often depicting themes from everyday life and drawing influence from Symbolism and other movements.
Color Theory: Color theory is a framework used to understand how colors interact, combine, and affect each other, forming the basis of artistic practices and visual communication. It encompasses principles such as color harmony, the color wheel, and the psychological effects of color, influencing artists' choices in various movements and styles.
Complementary colors: Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, cancel each other out, resulting in a grayscale color (like black or white). They are located opposite each other on the color wheel and create strong visual contrasts that can enhance compositions in art. Understanding complementary colors is essential for artists to create dynamic works that capture attention and convey emotions.
émile bernard: Émile Bernard was a French painter and theorist known for his significant contributions to the development of Cloisonnism and Synthetism, two innovative styles that emerged in the late 19th century. His work emphasized the use of bold outlines and flat areas of color, moving away from naturalistic representation and exploring the emotional and symbolic aspects of art.
Exposition universelle: The exposition universelle, or World Fair, was a large international exhibition that showcased advancements in art, culture, industry, and technology, often representing the pinnacle of national pride and innovation. These fairs were significant in promoting cultural exchange and setting trends in various art movements, influencing the direction of artistic development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Flat areas of color: Flat areas of color refer to the use of solid, unblended colors in painting that create a bold and graphic effect, often associated with Cloisonnism. This technique emphasizes the separation of colors and shapes, producing a visually striking composition that contrasts with traditional methods that rely on gradation and depth. The approach can lead to an overall decorative quality in artworks, enhancing the emotional and visual impact.
Japanese woodblock prints: Japanese woodblock prints, known as ukiyo-e, are a traditional form of art that involves carving images into wooden blocks, inking them, and then pressing paper onto the blocks to create prints. These prints often depict scenes from everyday life, landscapes, kabuki actors, and beautiful women, showcasing the beauty of fleeting moments and the vibrant culture of Japan during the Edo period.
Louis Anquetin: Louis Anquetin was a French painter who was a pivotal figure in the development of Cloisonnism, an artistic movement characterized by bold colors and distinct outlines. Anquetin's work exemplified the fusion of Impressionist techniques with the more decorative aspects of Japanese art, influencing the trajectory of modern painting during the late 19th century.
Modernity: Modernity refers to the cultural, social, and artistic shifts that emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional practices and an embrace of new ideas, forms, and experiences. This transformation is reflected in various art movements that sought to challenge conventions, capture the essence of contemporary life, and explore innovative techniques and philosophies.
Night café: A night café is a specific type of café that operates during the late hours of the night, often characterized by its vibrant atmosphere and artistic ambiance. These spaces typically serve coffee, food, and sometimes alcohol, attracting a diverse clientele looking for a social environment to unwind. The concept of the night café gained prominence in the late 19th century, particularly within the context of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, where artists depicted these lively settings to explore themes of modernity and urban life.
Paul Gauguin: Paul Gauguin was a French post-Impressionist artist known for his bold use of color and innovative artistic techniques, which greatly influenced modern art. His works often explored themes of spirituality and symbolism, and he was pivotal in the development of movements like Cloisonnism and Synthetism, impacting the way art was perceived and created.
Pointillism: Pointillism is a painting technique that uses small, distinct dots of color applied in patterns to form an image. This method relies on optical mixing, where the viewer's eye blends the colors at a distance rather than the artist physically mixing pigments. The technique highlights the impact of light and color, linking closely to other painting styles and philosophies.
Post-impressionist theory: Post-impressionist theory refers to the artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century as a response to Impressionism, emphasizing a more subjective approach to art. Artists associated with this movement sought to convey deeper emotional and symbolic meanings through their work, moving beyond the mere depiction of light and color that characterized Impressionism. The theory encompasses various styles, including Symbolism and Cloisonnism, where bold colors and defined forms played significant roles in shaping the visual experience.
Salon des indépendants: The salon des indépendants was an annual exhibition in Paris, established in 1884, aimed at showcasing works from independent artists who were not represented by traditional art institutions. It became a significant platform for alternative artistic movements, including various forms of modern art that defied conventional styles and approaches. This event played a vital role in promoting innovative techniques such as Pointillism and Cloisonnism, allowing artists to present their works without the constraints of academic standards.
Simplified forms: Simplified forms refer to the reduction of complex shapes and details into basic, geometric structures, emphasizing color and composition over realistic representation. This approach highlights the essence of the subject rather than its intricate features, allowing for emotional expression and a more immediate visual impact. Simplified forms often challenge traditional notions of realism and invite viewers to engage with art on a more intuitive level.
Symbolism in Art: Symbolism in art refers to the use of symbols to convey deeper meanings, emotions, and concepts beyond the literal representation of objects. This artistic movement sought to express the ineffable and to convey subjective experiences through symbolic imagery, rather than merely capturing reality. Symbolism is often characterized by its dream-like quality and exploration of themes such as spirituality, nature, and the human psyche.
Symbolist movement: The symbolist movement was a late 19th-century artistic and literary movement that sought to express the abstract and emotional through symbolic imagery rather than direct representation. This approach influenced various art forms, particularly painting and literature, where artists aimed to evoke feelings and ideas rather than depict reality literally. The movement emphasized imagination, dreams, and the subconscious, establishing a significant connection to later modernist movements.
Synthetism: Synthetism is an artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by the use of bold colors and simplified forms to express emotional and spiritual ideas rather than realistic representations. This approach often involved synthesizing various elements such as color, form, and symbolism to convey deeper meanings, diverging from the naturalistic tendencies of earlier movements.
The Vision After the Sermon: The Vision After the Sermon is a significant painting by Paul Gauguin, created in 1888, depicting a group of Breton women who are engaged in a religious experience. The artwork embodies the principles of Cloisonnism through its bold use of color and defined outlines, representing not just a literal interpretation of the scene but also an emotional and symbolic one. The painting transcends realism, aiming to capture the spirituality and inner thoughts of the figures, which aligns closely with the ideals of Cloisonnism where color and line are used to convey meaning beyond mere representation.