Art Nouveau - definition of architectural style

What is Art Nouveau?

Estimated period of occurence (1880 - 1930)

International movement and style of art, architecture and applied art (especially the decorative arts) that peaked in popularity at the turn of the 20th century (1890–1905). It is also known as Jugendstil, German for "youth style", named after the magazine Jugend, which promoted it, and in Italy, Stile Liberty from the department store in London, Liberty & Co., which popularised the style. A reaction to academic art of the 19th century, it is characterized by organic, especially floral and other plant-inspired motifs, as well as highly stylized, flowing curvilinear forms. Art Nouveau is an approach to design according to which artists should work on everything from architecture to furniture, making art part of everyday life. Art Nouveau was underlined by a particular way of thinking about modern society and new production methods, attempting to redefine the meaning and nature of the work of art so that art would not overlook any everyday object, no matter how utilitarian.