The Muskegon Museum of Art is excited to premiere Art Nouveau: Age of Elegance, an exhibition showcasing iconic works of art from the Art Nouveau movement, including original Mucha posters, rare Amphora ceramics, elegant furniture of the era, and more. Opening to the public on Thursday, October 2, visitors will be able to step back in time and discover how Art Nouveau influenced much of the culture, art, and design of the time. Art Nouveau: Age of Elegance will be on view through January 11.
Art Nouveau: Age of Elegance explores an influential art and design movement that emerged in the early 1900s. Art Nouveau, meaning “new art” in French, was a reaction against mass-produced goods and industrial design, aiming instead to bring beauty, craftsmanship, and artistic expression into everyday life. Inspired by nature, the iconic style of Art Nouveau is known for its flowing curves, floral and plant motifs, and elegant, decorative patterns. It appeared across a wide range of art forms, including architecture, furniture, posters, glass, ceramics, and more, leaving a lasting impact on design around the world.
This exhibition brings the Art Nouveau era to life with a stunning collection of rare and decorative pieces from artists such as Alphonse Mucha, Louis Comfort Tiffany, Émile Gallé, Edgar Degas, Hector Guimard, and John Singer Sargent. These works come from prestigious collections, including the Richard H. Driehaus Art Exhibition Lending Foundation, the Dr. Thomas and Jill Archambeau Collection, and the Baker Pisano Collection at the Muskegon Museum of Art.
The Muskegon Museum of Art will also be hosting a series Art Nouveau related events, including a free admission day with a family-friendly art activity inspired by the exhibition on October 18, a lecture on the Glasgow Girls (the women artists and designers of the Art Nouveau era) on October 30, and curator flash tours on December 18. To learn more about the exhibition and events, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.
Art Nouveau: Age of Elegance is underwritten by Wendy and Gary Merkey, Rehmann, and WZZM 13 On Your Side.
For more information or questions, contact Kristina Broughton at kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org or call at (231) 720-2574.
