Salon des refusés

Definition

The salon des refusés was an exhibition held in Paris in 1863 for artworks that were rejected from the official Salon, which was the main art exhibition of the French Academy. This event was a significant turning point in the art world, allowing artists who challenged traditional norms to showcase their work, which laid the groundwork for movements like Romanticism and Impressionism, as it highlighted alternative perspectives on art that deviated from established conventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The first salon des refusés took place in 1863 and included works by artists like Édouard Manet, whose painting 'Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe' sparked controversy.
2. This exhibition was initiated by Emperor Napoleon III in response to public outcry over the number of rejected artworks at the official Salon.
3. The salon des refusés served as a platform for artists to display innovative styles and subject matters that contradicted traditional expectations set by the Academy of Fine Arts.
4. Many of the artists featured at the salon des refusés went on to become influential figures in the art world, helping to pave the way for modern art movements.
5. The success of the salon des refusés led to changes in how exhibitions were organized, eventually influencing how future art exhibitions embraced diversity and new ideas.

Review Questions

• How did the salon des refusés challenge traditional artistic norms established by the Academy of Fine Arts?
  • The salon des refusés provided a space for artists whose works were not accepted by the official Salon, directly challenging the restrictive criteria set by the Academy of Fine Arts. By showcasing these rejected pieces, it allowed for a broader exploration of artistic expression that included innovative styles and subjects. This rejection of traditional norms encouraged a shift towards more modern artistic movements such as Romanticism and Impressionism, emphasizing personal interpretation over adherence to classical standards.
• Discuss the impact of the salon des refusés on the development of Impressionism as an art movement.
  • The salon des refusés had a significant impact on Impressionism by offering a platform for artists who would later become key figures in this movement. Artists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas displayed their works that focused on capturing light and everyday scenes, which were often rejected by traditional juries. The exposure gained through this alternative exhibition allowed Impressionist artists to gain recognition and ultimately reshape public perceptions of art, paving the way for new artistic approaches that celebrated spontaneity and modern life.
• Evaluate how the establishment of the salon des refusés reflected broader societal changes in 19th century France regarding art and culture.
  • The establishment of the salon des refusés was reflective of broader societal changes occurring in 19th century France, particularly regarding individual expression and cultural shifts away from rigid academic standards. As industrialization progressed, there was a growing desire among artists to depict contemporary life rather than historical or mythological subjects favored by traditional institutions. The salon des refusés allowed for greater artistic freedom and diversity, showcasing emerging movements like Realism and Impressionism that aligned with changing societal values. This exhibition also marked a pivotal moment where audiences began to appreciate alternative artistic visions, indicating a shift towards modernity in both art and culture.

Related terms

Academy of Fine Arts: A prestigious institution in France that dictated artistic standards and hosted the official Salon, influencing which works were considered acceptable in the art community.

Impressionism: An art movement that emerged in the late 19th century characterized by a focus on capturing light and everyday scenes, often depicted by artists who exhibited in the salon des refusés.

Realism: An artistic movement that aimed to depict everyday life and ordinary people, often rejecting romanticized portrayals and influencing many artists featured in the salon des refusés.