Is Gatsby’s Lavish Style Art Nouveau?

While Sydney’s Belle Epoque Fine Art did supply a few Art Nouveau pieces for Baz Luhrmann’s film rendition of The Great Gatsby, it’s fair to say that Gatsby himself and his lavish lifestyle are not entirely rooted in Art Nouveau. The movie draws from a range of inspiration, including the Art Deco movement that began in the 1920s during the time period of the story. However, Art Nouveau does feature in the movie’s overall aesthetic, especially in the design of some of the luxurious villas and mansions featured. Some of the Art Nouveau pieces seen in the film include:

Striking floral motifs on wallpaper and upholstery

Curved lines and organic forms in furniture design

The use of stained glass in some of the interior spaces

However, it is important to note that The Great Gatsby is not solely an Art Nouveau or Art Deco film. The movie is a careful study of the lavish lifestyles of the wealthy during the roaring twenties, and as such, incorporates a variety of design elements to create the film’s overall aesthetic. The magnificent homes and parties that make up the movie are a grand statement of a world obsessed with rich, decadent living – capturing a moment in history that was both spectacular and fleeting.

Introduction: The Artistic Style of The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby, a period movie directed by Baz Luhrmann, is a cinematic work of art that visually transports viewers to the roaring 1920s. The film is a visual spectacle that features stunning Art Deco motifs and over-the-top opulence. However, many art historians and critics have questioned whether the film’s stylization is Art Nouveau instead of Art Deco.

The Characteristics of Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a French term that means new art. It emerged in Europe in the late 19th century as a response to the Academic art of the time. Art Nouveau is characterized by intricate linear designs, organic forms, and elaborate motifs, often inspired by nature. The movement’s signature curves, sinuous lines, and undulating patterns can be seen through various art forms such as furniture, jewelry, and architecture. In Art Nouveau, everything from buildings to personal accessories was as much art as it was functional.

Belle Epoque Fine Art’s Collection for The Great Gatsby

Belle Epoque Fine Art, a Sydney-based antique dealer, supplied several pieces of Art Nouveau for the set of The Great Gatsby. The collection included Art Nouveau-inspired vases, lamps, and candelabras. Some of the glass pieces feature intricate organic designs, while others boast Art Nouveau’s hallmark sinuous curves. According to Belle Epoque Fine Art’s owner, these pieces added to the movie’s overall aesthetic appeal, highlighting the extravagance and opulence of the period. The Art Nouveau items that adorned the film’s set were a perfect representation of the movement’s principles and aesthetics. Some key pieces from Belle Epoque Fine Art that made it to the silver screen include a bronze sculpture of a woman in Art Nouveau style holding a wine bottle and several Art Nouveau-inspired lamps.

How Art Nouveau Influenced The Great Gatsby’s Set Design

The Art Nouveau movement influenced the set design of The Great Gatsby in various ways. For one, the intricate sinuous patterns, and organic designs that were prominent in Art Nouveau aesthetics are visible in the curved shapes of furniture pieces featured in the film. The elegant Art Nouveau-inspired decor in Gatsby’s mansion perfectly complements the lavish and extravagant lifestyle of the 1920s. The set design of Gatsby’s mansion would not have been complete without Art Nouveau embellishments, which were used to create a stunningly ornate space that oozes opulence and luxury. Additionally, the Art Nouveau-inspired vases and candelabras used throughout the movie emphasize the attention to detail necessary for the Art Nouveau style.

Other Artistic Influences on The Great Gatsby

While Art Nouveau was a significant influence on The Great Gatsby, the film drew inspiration from various other artistic styles as well. The signature Art Deco style, known for its bold geometric shapes and striking monochromatic color schemes, was a major influence on Gatsby’s wardrobe and the overall visual aesthetic of the movie. Additionally, the film features a range of references to popular music of the time, including jazz, blues, and ragtime. The artistic styles of the 1920s inspired the visual and musical elements of The Great Gatsby, bringing the roaring twenties to life on the big screen.

Debate: Is The Great Gatsby Considered Art Nouveau?

While much of The Great Gatsby’s set design and decorative elements include Art Nouveau characteristics, it is debatable whether the movie itself can be considered as Art Nouveau. Some critics argue that the production draws on a range of artistic styles, and while the Art Nouveau pieces are certainly impressive, they do not define the movie’s overall aesthetic. On the other hand, some argue that The Great Gatsby is a prime example of Art Nouveau’s influence on contemporary culture, showcasing the movement’s relevance and timelessness.

Conclusion: Artistic Styles in Film-making

The Great Gatsby is a perfect example of how artistic styles can influence film-making. Art Nouveau, in particular, played a significant role in the film’s visual appeal, influencing everything from furniture design to set decoration. While the debate about whether The Great Gatsby can be deemed an Art Nouveau work continues, what remains clear is that the movie is a stunning visual masterpiece that seamlessly blends various artistic styles of the 1920s.