The Nancy-School-of-Art, also known as the École de Nancy, was an important artistic movement in the city of Nancy, France, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement was characterized by its focus on Art Nouveau principles, emphasizing natural forms, organic lines, and a harmonious integration of art with everyday life.
The Nancy-School-of-Art was officially founded in 1901 by Émile Gallé, a leading figure in the French glass industry and a designer who was instrumental in the development of the Art Nouveau style. Gallé, along with other artists like Louis Majorelle and Victor Prouvé, sought to create an art movement that would reflect a new way of living through art and design. This school aimed to promote regional artists and designers by showcasing their work in a unified artistic expression that was both innovative and rooted in the local culture of Lorraine.
The artists of the Nancy-School-of-Art were known for:
The movement's influence extended beyond Nancy, impacting the broader Art Nouveau movement in Europe. Their work was exhibited at significant events like the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1900, where the École de Nancy pavilion was a highlight, showcasing the school's commitment to integrating art with everyday life.
The Nancy-School-of-Art left a lasting legacy, not only in its influence on design but also in the preservation of its works. Today, many pieces can be seen at the Musée de l'École de Nancy, which was established in 1964 to house the works of the school's artists. The museum itself is housed in a villa designed by Lucien Weissenburger, an architect associated with the movement, providing a fitting tribute to the school's ideals.