Art criticism in the 19th century

Definition

Art criticism in the 19th century refers to the evaluation and interpretation of art during a period marked by significant social, political, and artistic change. This era saw a shift from traditional academic standards to new movements such as Romanticism and Impressionism, which emphasized personal expression and the artist's perspective. Critics played a crucial role in shaping public perception of these emerging styles, often influencing the market and reception of artworks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the 19th century, art criticism became more prominent as critics began to publish reviews in newspapers and journals, making their opinions widely accessible to the public.
2. Critics like Charles Baudelaire and Émile Zola were influential figures who used their writings to support new artistic movements and promote the works of emerging artists.
3. The rise of Impressionism challenged existing art institutions and led to the organization of independent exhibitions outside traditional venues like the Salon.
4. Art criticism often reflected broader societal changes, including shifts in class structures and the impact of industrialization on art production and themes.
5. By the end of the 19th century, art criticism had evolved into a more subjective practice, focusing on personal interpretation rather than just technical skill or adherence to academic standards.

Review Questions

• How did art criticism evolve in response to the emergence of new artistic movements during the 19th century?
  • Art criticism in the 19th century evolved significantly as it began to embrace new movements like Romanticism and Impressionism. Critics shifted from strictly evaluating works based on academic standards to exploring personal expression and emotional depth. This change not only influenced public perception but also encouraged artists to experiment with their styles and challenge established norms.
• Discuss the role of prominent critics like Baudelaire in shaping perceptions of Impressionism during the 19th century.
  • Prominent critics such as Charles Baudelaire played a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of Impressionism by articulating its values through their writings. Baudelaire advocated for artists who focused on modern life and emotional expression, emphasizing how Impressionists captured fleeting moments through innovative techniques. His support helped legitimize Impressionism in an art world dominated by academic standards, thus fostering greater acceptance among audiences.
• Evaluate the impact of art criticism on the reception of artists within the context of 19th-century social and cultural changes.
  • Art criticism profoundly impacted how artists were received in the 19th century, particularly against a backdrop of social and cultural changes. As industrialization transformed society, critics began to champion works that reflected contemporary life and emotions, creating a dialogue between art and its context. This shift allowed for greater diversity in artistic expression, leading to a broader understanding of what constituted 'art' while also affecting market dynamics and shaping artist careers based on critical reception.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, often seen as a reaction against the Industrial Revolution and the constraints of Neoclassicism.

Impressionism: A late 19th-century art movement characterized by loose brushwork, an emphasis on light, and capturing everyday subjects, which challenged traditional artistic conventions and subject matter.

Salon: The official exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, which became a significant platform for artists and a focal point for art criticism in the 19th century.