Art nouveau was a popular artistic movement in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The influence of this style can be found in everything from jewelry to architecture, and it served as a bridge between classic and modern art movements. Ordinariness and naturalness of an object were emphasized, and these qualities are important in art nouveau decorating. Art nouveau decorations also have a mix of curved and straight lines, as well as a preference for flat patterns and designs. In an art nouveau-inspired room, plain curtains, stained glass, and natural wood flooring are all common features.
The initial movement was seen as a reaction to the darkness and heaviness of earlier Victorian styles, so simplicity and lightness are some of the primary foundations of art nouveau decorating. Natural wood materials, such as oak wood with its original grained appearance, are frequently preferred in flooring. In interior design, more neutral and light colors, such as white or a soft brown, are preferred. The large and ornate drapes of the Victorian era were replaced plain fabrics hanging downward on a basic pole in art nouveau decorating.
Art nouveau design is also known for its abundance of curves. Whiplash curves are exaggerated and sharp curves that occur frequently. Curves were also used to join objects together. Flowing female hair or curved female bodies were a common motif in many designs. Curves were frequently used in Art Nouveau decorating to contrast with straight horizontal or vertical lines.
Art nouveau uses flat patterns and designs, which were inspired Japanese block prints. The advantage of these influences was their adaptability and ability to be applied to a wide range of objects. Nature’s elements, such as leaves, flowers, and birds, are frequently used as examples. Wallpaper is a popular medium for expressing these feelings.
Because appreciation for the ordinary is one of the main themes of art nouveau design, practitioners of art nouveau saw the possibility of art all around them. As a result, art nouveau décor does not have to be limited to paintings or sculptures. Rather, any ordinary object, such as a plate or a chair, can be transformed into a work of art.
Art nouveau designers frequently favor materials that are unobtrusive and blend well with plain backgrounds. Some of the most common materials used in sculptures or other additives are glass, porcelain, and wrought iron. Stained glass and Oriental elements, such as those found in rugs, are probably the only stylistic concessions. The flat patterned designs popular in art nouveau decorating find a new home in these objects.