The period between World War I and World War II was marked by a significant shift in the art world.
As artists sought to make sense of the chaos and destruction wrought by the Great War, a new movement emerged:
Interwar Classicism.
This movement was characterized by a return to traditional forms and techniques, a rejection of the avant-garde and abstract art that had dominated the pre-war period, and a focus on order, clarity, and simplicity.
In this article, we will explore the origins, key figures, and lasting impact of Interwar Classicism.
Origins of Interwar Classicism
Interwar Classicism emerged in the aftermath of World War I, a period of profound social, political, and cultural upheaval.
The war had shattered the old order and left many artists disillusioned with the modern world.
They sought to create a new art that would reflect the values of stability, tradition, and continuity. This movement was inspired by the art of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Artists looked to the past for inspiration, seeking to revive classical forms and techniques that had fallen out of favor in the modern era.
Key Figures of Interwar Classicism
One of the key figures of Interwar Classicism was the Italian artist Giorgio de Chirico.
His paintings often featured deserted cityscapes and uncanny, dreamlike imagery.
He sought to create a new kind of classicism that would be both modern and timeless.
His work was influential in shaping the aesthetic of the movement, particularly in Italy and France.
Another important figure was the French artist Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres.
Ingres was a master of classical technique, known for his precise draftsmanship and idealized portraits.
He was revered by the Interwar Classicists for his ability to create timeless, beautiful images that were rooted in tradition.
The American artist Paul Manship was also a leading figure in the movement.
He was known for his sculptures of mythological figures, which combined classical forms with modern materials and techniques.
His work was particularly popular in the United States, where it reflected a desire for stability and order in the aftermath of the Great Depression.
Impact of Interwar Classicism
Interwar Classicism had a significant impact on the art world, particularly in Europe and the United States.
It represented a rejection of the avant-garde and abstract art that had dominated the pre-war period, and a return to traditional forms and techniques.
This movement paved the way for the resurgence of figurative art in the post-war era, as artists sought to create images that were both beautiful and meaningful.
Interwar Classicism also had a lasting impact on architecture and design.
Many of the buildings constructed during this period were inspired by classical forms, with an emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and simplicity.
This style came to be known as Art Deco, and it remains popular today for its timeless elegance and glamour.
Interwar Classicism – Wrap Up
Interwar Classicism was a movement that emerged in the aftermath of World War I, as artists sought to create a new art that would reflect the values of stability, tradition, and continuity.
It represented a rejection of the avant-garde and abstract art that had dominated the pre-war period, and a return to traditional forms and techniques.
This movement had a significant impact on the art world, particularly in Europe and the United States, and paved the way for the resurgence of figurative art in the post-war era.
Today, Interwar Classicism remains a testament to the enduring power of beauty, order, and simplicity in art and design.
