Emile Bernard (1868 – 1941) was a French Post-Impressionist painter and writer, known for his association with the Symbolist movement and his influence on the development of Cloisonnism. Born in Lille, France, Bernard’s work played a significant role in the avant-garde art scene of late 19th-century Paris.
Bernard’s painting style is characterized by his use of bold outlines and flat areas of color, often employing a limited palette to create striking and symbolic compositions. He was instrumental in developing Cloisonnism, a style marked by its clear contours and separation of color, as seen in works like “Breton Women in the Meadow.”
Inspiration for his paintings came from various sources, including literature, folk art, medieval stained glass, and his travels, particularly his time in Brittany. Bernard was drawn to Symbolism, seeking to express spiritual and emotional truths through his art.
Artists with similar styles include other Post-Impressionists like Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh. In fact, Bernard had close relationships with both artists and exchanged ideas and techniques with them, leading to mutual influence.
Émile Bernard’s contributions to art are notable for his innovative approach to form and color, as well as his connections with other key figures of the time. His works reflect a quest for a more symbolic and expressive mode of painting, breaking with the naturalistic tendencies of the day. Bernard’s writings on art and his involvement in various artistic circles also make him a significant figure in the intellectual and cultural life of his time. His unique vision and artistic experimentation continue to be recognized as vital to the development of modern art.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Émile_Bernard
https://www.wikiart.org/en/emile-bernard
