The latter half of the eighteenth century came in with a rallying cry for freedom on behalf of both America and Europe. The late 1700s saw massive bloodshed between America and Britain, the latter of whom was increasingly infuriated with the former’s burgeoning independence. The British looked to maintain the rights of the colonies while America was motivated to strike out on its own. This time was a one for freedom and this desire framed the Enlightenment movement; there was an emphasis on free thinking and as Enlightenment historian Peter Gay puts is “freedom from arbitrary power… of speech… of trade… to realize one’s talents… aesthetic response,” etc. The call for this freedom resulted in a Neo-Classical model, which denotes a “new classicism.” The Neoclassicism movement looked to restore order and balanced following the American and French revolutions, which were in response to the alienation and disenfranchisement of the people by way of the abuse of royal power. As both America and France fought for their own collective equalities, revolting became the background upon which the world was set as people boldly and audaciously declared their rights and demanding equality (mainly for men).
As bloody wars aged in the fight for independence order and calm, the Neoclassical style extended to the arts and architecture as well. Just as the political and social climate of a place shapes that of its people and culture too, the eighteenth century relied on Neoclassicism as a reprieve from the overall chaos. Art viewed through an emotional lens and has the capacity to evoke strong feelings in the viewer. Art is a part of culture and an avenue of expression worldwide. It is in museums and in homes made by famed, ancient painters and even contemporary artists. Regardless of where art is or whom the creator is, arts “awaken you to the power and the intensity of the creative spirit.” Art transcends times, cultures, societal norms, gender, age, etc. Art can and does reach anyone especially those who are more prone to tap into his or her creativity. It also portrays messages that are either apparent of obscure to the viewer, requiring much more critical thinking—or sometimes none at all.
Use your promo and get a custom paper on
"Neoclassicism Movement".
The Neoclassicism movement presented itself as an offshoot of the Baroque and Rococo styles of the late 17th century; flashy and decorative styles symbolized the tenacity of the revolutionaries fighting for democracy and fairness, especially within its government systems. Although in contrast of the gaudiness and grandeur of the Baroque and Rococo styles, Classical art works had an air of subdued nobility, preferring to express that grandeur in a simple and muted way. From the outset of Neoclassical architecture and beginning with English architect Robert Adam, Neoclassicism drew on Greco-Roman influences for style. Robert Adam and brother James drew inspiration from antique Roman buildings and colonnades adorned with stucco and marble. Robert Adams’ designs directly reflected the likes of a Roman villa and in the interior decoration paid homage to notable Greek and Roman gods, as well as the Muse courtesy of sculptor John Flaxman and his linear designs. The overarching Neoclassical architecture style became known as the Federal style, heralded by Thomas Jefferson. Like Adams’ works, Jefferson modeled the physical structures of both his private and public life as a copy of rustic Roman architecture.
Art in Neoclassical America, both sculptures and paintings, followed suit at Jefferson’s behest. In paintings, Neoclassicism was presented most notably by painter Jacques-Louis David, credited as the most influential artists of his day. In line with the simplicity of the movement, his paintings seemed to be frozen in time with subdued brushstrokes and an attention to detail all at the same time. His painting The Oath of Horatii for example depicts a battle between three brothers who vow to fight to the death. The painting sees defined lines in the muscles and stances of the men, a rigid Neoclassical arrangement and a contrast in the women’s’ emotional despair.
