Academism

Academism refers to a style of painting and sculpture produced under the influence of European academies of art. This style was dominant in France from the late 17th century to the late 19th century, and in other countries, it held sway for varying periods. Academism is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, a smooth and polished finish, and a reliance on established conventions of subject matter and composition. Artists working in this style often drew inspiration from classical antiquity, the Renaissance, and Baroque art, frequently depicting mythological, historical, or religious scenes. The emphasis was on idealized forms, perfect anatomy, and a clear, rational rendering of the subject. The training in academies of art was crucial to the development and dissemination of this style, as it provided a standardized curriculum that stressed drawing from life and from plaster casts, as well as the study of anatomy and perspective. While often criticized by avant-garde movements of the late 19th century for being rigid and unoriginal, Academism produced works of great technical skill and polish, and it played a significant role in shaping the artistic taste and education of its time. Its influence can be seen in the works of many prominent artists, and it continued to be taught and practiced in various forms well into the 20th century.