Vienna Secession

The Vienna Secession, formed in 1897, was a pivotal art movement in Austria, closely related to Art Nouveau. It was established by a group of Austrian artists, including luminaries like Josef Hoffmann, Koloman Moser, Otto Wagner, and Gustav Klimt. They sought to break free from the constraints of traditional academic art and create a new, modern form of expression​.

This movement was characterized by its dedication to creating an international and contemporary approach to art, blending various artistic genres. The Secessionists were known for their pluralist approach, incorporating elements from Naturalism, Modernism, Impressionism, and even the Arts and Crafts movement. Their work crossed disciplines, aiming to form a total work of art, or Gesamtkunstwerk​​​​​​.

A significant architectural achievement of the Vienna Secession was the Secession Building, designed by Joseph Maria Olbrich. This building, with its iconic dome, became a symbol of the movement and a hub for showcasing contemporary art in Vienna. The Secessionists also celebrated graphic art, narrowing the gap between it and traditional forms like painting and sculpture. The movement embraced symmetry and repetition, with a distinctive style that incorporated square forms and grid motifs​​​​​​.

One of the key elements of the Vienna Secession was its influence from Japonism. The Secessionists admired Japanese design for its restrained decoration, preference for natural materials, and balance between negative and positive space. This influence is evident in the works of Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, who incorporated flat visual planes and linear outlines into their paintings, reflective of Japanese woodblock prints​​.

For art collectors and enthusiasts, the Vienna Secession offers a fascinating exploration into the intersection of various art forms and the birth of modernism in art. To discover more about this influential movement and stay informed about related collections and events, sign up for our updates.