Overview

1880-1910
Art Nouveau is said to be the first modern style in the 20th century. It was the first style to stop being inspired by things of the past, but yet instead taking inspiration from around you and in particular nature. 

When Art Nouveau was first shown in Paris and then in London, there was outrage; it was like marmite, either people loved it or hated it. Within the style itself there are two distinct looks: curvy lines and the more austere, linear look. Some aspects of art nouveau were revived again in the 1960s.
This style was spread pretty fast throughout Europe thanks to photo-illustrated art magazines and international exhibitions. Its name differed according to each country, so it was called “Modernisme” in Catalonia, “Liberty” in Italy, “Jugendstil” in Germany, “Secession” in Vienna or Prague.

This modern style was considered an attempt to create an international style based on decorations. Art Nouveau was a style developed by an energetic and brilliant generation of designers and artists who sought to fashion an art form appropriate to the modern age.

In many ways, this style was a response to the Industrial Revolution. The technological progress was welcomed by artists who embraced the aesthetic possibilities of using new materials in their art work such as cast iron.

Influences

• arts and crafts - art nouveau shared the same belief in quality goods and fine craftsmanship but was happy with mass production
• rococo style
• botanical research

Style

• sinuous, elongated, curvy lines
• the whiplash line
• vertical lines and height
• stylised flowers, leaves, roots, buds and seedpods
• the female form - in a pre-Raphaelite pose with long, flowing hair
• exotic woods, marquetry, iridescent glass, silver and semi-precious stones

Big Art Nouveau Names

• Charles Rennie Mackintosh - architect and designer of furniture and jewellery
• Alphonse Mucha - posters
• Aubrey Beardsley - book illustrations
• Louis Comfort Tiffany - lighting
• René Lalique - glass and jewellery
• Emile Galle - ceramics, glass and furniture
• Victor Horta - architect

Art Nouveau links to the specific theme and question I am providing for, as both derive from nature.