Decorative and Symbolist Art: Les Nabis

Introduction

Les Nabis was a group of young artists active in Paris in the late 19th century. They were inspired by the work of Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh, and they sought to create a new kind of art that was both decorative and symbolist.

History and Formation

Les Nabis was formed in 1888 by a group of students at the Académie Julian in Paris. The group included Maurice Denis, Paul Sérusier, Pierre Bonnard, Édouard Vuillard, Félix Vallotton, and Ker-Xavier Roussel. The name "Les Nabis" was chosen because it means "prophets" in Hebrew, and the group saw themselves as the prophets of a new era in art.

Artistic Style

The art of Les Nabis was characterized by its use of flat, decorative colors, simplified forms, and symbolic imagery. The group was also interested in the relationship between art and music, and they often used musical themes in their work.

Major Works

Some of the most famous works by Les Nabis include:

• Maurice Denis's "The Muses" (1893)
• Paul Sérusier's "The Talisman" (1888)
• Pierre Bonnard's "The Yellow Room" (1891)
• Édouard Vuillard's "The Garden at Les Nabis" (1891)
• Félix Vallotton's "The Ball" (1890)
• Ker-Xavier Roussel's "The Procession" (1891)

Legacy

Les Nabis had a significant impact on the development of modern art. Their work helped to pave the way for the emergence of Fauvism and Cubism, and it continues to be admired by artists and art lovers today.

Conclusion

Les Nabis was a group of innovative and influential artists who made a significant contribution to the development of modern art. Their work is characterized by its use of flat, decorative colors, simplified forms, and symbolic imagery. Les Nabis were also interested in the relationship between art and music, and they often used musical themes in their work.