Graphic illustrators near the end of the 19th century were using all the important elements of design, shape and pattern. The man who used those same elements and actually changed the way that graphic designers looked at a page, died at the age of only 26 years. Throughout the 20th century, artists have attempted to copy his personal interpretation of art nouveau style which he developed during his short life.
Oscar Wilde advocated and patronized an assortment of artistic movements, methods and styles. He deeply regarded the practice of art as an end unto itself. He felt that assessing art by ethical or standards was a misguided notion. He quickly became a polemical and substantial literary presence and remained so during his brief life. Wilde chose this important figure in the history of Art Nouveau style to create imagery for a story of his which was considered 'perverse' and 'exotic'. With the use of sinister eroticism, some elegant sweeping lines and patterns, this young illustrator created clever distortions in his illustrations of this story.
His work features dramatic inter-relationships of black and white. Literally playing on a white surface, he makes use of larger planes and borders, or just darkness that will contrast with some delicate patterns. Large, sweeping, winding curves generate movement across Wilde's pages. His pieces tend to be asymmetrical. Although the actual characters found in his art are very simple outlines, their clothes or props are usually very detailed. This communication between these complex elements and the more simple forms are the foundation for the effectiveness of his works.
Beardsley, as well as many other important illustrators and designers of the time, drew their inspiration from the popularity of Japanese imported goods and the revival of many medieval and early Renaissance themes that characterized the times. So, this artist's images were the basis for much imitation throughout the US and Europe, bringing him considerable fame, and appearances in well known publications. Even today a lot of his work is still being reproduced and seen as posters and framed prints.
By the late 19th century, poster art began to emerge as an art form in its own right. What was once a simple means of promotion and advertising was now taking the stage as a recognized form of art. Even though the books of that particular era were being produced in black and white print, color posters were also being printed. Poster design at this time centered upon only a single, vivid, striking image. Verbiage describing the poster's subject or topic was intentionally and strictly limited. Keeping his shapes simple and flat and his colors vibrant, he knew that simple design was the way to direct the viewer's attention to the work. These lines could be called hesitant, and were sometimes fractured, a bit like an impressionist would create. Tbis artist's work is therefore widely known as the precursor to the true art nouveau poster aesthetic.
There was another illustrator, who is thought of as the creator of the more proper art nouveau poster, who used more fluid contours and much stronger outlines. One artist created work which is noted for graceful, young girls with long hair and draped clothing, spreading out into interesting, beautiful forms. Other artists became noteworthy by limiting their canvas to tall, thin shapes, filled with the image of a single woman. Ornate, complex arrangements feature a range of influences, such as origami, Hebrew characters, Arab and Moorish embellishments, Byzantine mosaic work, Japanese wood cut examples and Celtic themes.
There are countless books which reproduce these artworks from the late 1800s, and detail more about how each artist approached their work. You can also find art dealers who can supply authentic or reproduction 19th & 20th century artworks. These dealers can frequently be found in stand-alone stalls at big antique markets. If a piece is in excellent condition, you can expect to pay from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
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