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Experience the luxury and decadence of Art Nouveau in this globe-trotting survey of the artistic movement’s most stunning architecture, jewels and decorative objects. Our journey will begin in Paris in 1900 with the Universal Exposition and go on to examine the unique architectural masterpieces of Art Nouveau capitals like Brussels, Paris, Barcelona, Glasgow, Vienna, Moscow and Prague. Learn how the movement’s artists and master craftsmen ushered European society into the modern age.
Led by art historian, fine art advisor and professor at the University of Toronto's School of Continuing Studies, Natalie Ribkoff, whose Around the World with Art Deco series wowed Curious Minds audiences in 2016.
October 23: The style and the age
We begin our journey by examining the sources and inspiration that contributed to the modern style. Exploring the magnificent objects on display at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1900, we will learn about the many talented individuals that transformed architecture and design at the turn of the 19th century.
October 30: Great beginnings in Brussels
Meet the innovative Belgian Architects Victor Horta and Henri Van de Velde who brought the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk to the attention of the world. Prevalent themes of female sexuality and the natural world are revealed as we marvel at luxurious objects produced by top notch artisans and jewelers.
November 6: Fabulous French talent from Paris and Nancy
Discover the story behind Hector Guimard’s iconic Paris Metro stations; be dazzled by the sinuous creations of master jewelers René Lalique and Georges Fouquet, and take a trip to the Alsace-Lorraine region to examine the magnificent glass objects and fine furniture produced by brilliant entrepreneurs Emile Gallé and Louis Majorelle.
November 13: For the love of Gaudi; Art Nouveau in Barcelona
Combining ancient traditions with modern industrial materials, architects Lluís Domènech i Montaner and Antoni Gaudí ushered in the Modernista Movement. We’ll step inside the elaborate Palau de la Música Catalana as well as decadent residences commissioned by Gaudi’s great patron Eusebi Güell. No trip to Barcelona would be complete without a stop at the Temple of the Sagrada Família.
November 20: Glasgow and Vienna
Settling in at Miss Cranston’s Tea Rooms, we discover how whiplash lines are transformed by Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Viennese architects follow suit, embracing distinctive geometric forms. We’ll also examine the paintings of Gustav Klimt, the artist behind the “Woman in Gold.”
November 27: Looking Eastward: Prague, Moscow and St. Petersburg
As the Russian Empire teetered on the verge of revolution, Moscow’s Nouveau Riche flaunted their success with modern buildings that inspired ordinary citizens to turn their backs on the Imperial traditions. We shine a spotlight on Russian folk arts and conclude our journey in the historic city of Prague where magnificent structures demonstrate the global reach of the Art Nouveau style.