Synthetism

Definition

Synthetism is an artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century, primarily associated with Paul Gauguin, which seeks to synthesize the formal elements of art with emotional expression and symbolism. This approach emphasizes bold colors, flattened forms, and the use of abstract shapes to convey deeper meanings rather than just a literal representation of reality. Synthetism represents a departure from Impressionism, focusing more on the artist's vision and emotional response to subjects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Paul Gauguin is considered the pioneer of Synthetism, often using vibrant colors and bold shapes to express his emotional responses to his subjects.
2. The movement emerged as a reaction against Impressionism's focus on light and momentary effects, aiming instead for a more introspective and symbolic approach.
3. Synthetism often incorporates elements of non-Western art, drawing inspiration from Pacific Island cultures, which influenced Gauguin's style.
4. Key characteristics of Synthetism include the flattening of forms, rejection of perspective, and a focus on decorative patterns.
5. Gauguin's works, such as 'Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?' exemplify the Synthetist ideology by combining narrative, emotion, and symbolic imagery.

Review Questions

• How did Paul Gauguin's approach to color and form exemplify the principles of Synthetism?
  • Gauguin’s approach was distinct because he used color not just to depict reality but to evoke emotions and convey deeper meanings. He employed bold and non-naturalistic colors along with flattened forms, which allowed him to move away from traditional representation. This method highlighted his personal vision and emotional interpretation of subjects, making his work a prime example of Synthetism.
• In what ways did Synthetism differ from Impressionism, and what implications did this have for the development of modern art?
  • Synthetism differed from Impressionism primarily in its emphasis on emotional expression over capturing fleeting moments. While Impressionists focused on light and atmosphere, Synthetists like Gauguin sought to create a cohesive narrative through symbolism and abstraction. This shift paved the way for modern art movements that prioritized subjective experience over objective representation.
• Evaluate the impact of non-Western art influences on Gauguin’s Synthetist works and how this reflects broader cultural exchanges in art during his time.
  • Gauguin’s fascination with non-Western art significantly shaped his Synthetist works by introducing elements such as bold colors and simplified forms typical of Pacific Island aesthetics. This influence reflects broader cultural exchanges occurring in the late 19th century as artists sought inspiration outside European traditions. By incorporating these elements into his work, Gauguin not only challenged Western norms but also initiated dialogues about cultural authenticity and artistic identity that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions around globalization in art.

Related terms

Symbolism: A late 19th-century movement in art and literature that emphasized the use of symbols to express ideas and emotions rather than depicting reality.

Post-Impressionism: An art movement that followed Impressionism, characterized by a focus on more expressive use of color, form, and symbolism in painting.

Color Theory: The study of how colors interact and how they can be combined to create various effects in art, crucial to the development of Synthetism.