Why Is Manet the Father of Modern Art?

Art|Modern Art

Edouard Manet, born on the 23rd of January 1832 in Paris, is considered a renowned French painter and a prominent figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. He is widely regarded as the father of Modern Art for his revolutionary approach to painting and his unique compositions.

Manet’s early work was closely tied to that of Gustave Courbet, a leader of Realism. His works during this period were largely focused on everyday life and depicted scenes from modern life.

This style was seen in his painting Luncheon on the Grass (1863), which depicted two fully-dressed men having lunch with a nude woman in an outdoor setting. This painting shocked viewers and was rejected by the annual Paris Salon, but it also received praise from avant-garde painters such as Émile Zola who praised its “spiritual freshness”.

Manet later became an avid admirer of Japanese ukiyo-e prints and incorporated their influence into his works. He incorporated this style into his 1863 painting Olympia, which depicted a nude woman reclining on a bed surrounded by flowers and other objects. This painting also shocked viewers due to its unconventional composition and its use of bold colors.

Manet’s later works embraced impressionistic elements such as broken brush strokes, strong colors, and light effects. His 1882 painting A Bar at the Folies-Bergère is one of the most famous examples of this style, depicting a barmaid looking out at the viewer with an expression of boredom or sadness. This painting was one of Manet’s most acclaimed works and has been noted for its modernity.

Conclusion:

Due to his revolutionary approach to painting and his blending of traditional techniques with modern styles, Edouard Manet has rightly been recognized as the father of Modern Art. His works have inspired countless artists over the years and continue to be admired by art lovers around the world.