Who influenced Symbolist artists?

Who were the main influences on Symbolist artists?

Symbolist artists were influenced by various sources, including Romanticism, literature, and philosophy. Key figures include Charles Baudelaire, whose poetry inspired many, and the works of Edgar Allan Poe.

Can you tell me more about Baudelaire's impact?

Certainly! Baudelaire's collection 'Les Fleurs du mal' explored themes of beauty, decadence, and the human experience, which resonated deeply with Symbolist artists, encouraging them to express emotions and ideas through symbolism.

What about other artists? Any specific examples?

Yes! Artists like Gustave Moreau and Odilon Redon were heavily influenced by Baudelaire's themes. Moreau's mythological subjects and Redon's dreamlike imagery reflect the Symbolist ethos.

How did philosophy play a role in Symbolism?

Philosophy, particularly the ideas of Schopenhauer and Nietzsche, influenced Symbolist artists by encouraging them to explore the inner self and the subconscious, leading to more abstract and emotive works.