Hôtel Hallet, Bruxelles, © Manuel Bougot
Art nouveau / 5 Villas et Hôtels particuliers (2022)
Since 2013, Art Nouveau has been celebrated worldwide on June 10th. This date marks the anniversary of the death of Antoni Gaudí and Ödön Lechner, two emblematic architects of this architectural movement. The aim of this worldwide day is to raise public awareness of heritage and architecture through various events highlighting this rich artistic period.
Art Nouveau, characterised by its organic style, floral motifs and quest for harmony between art and architecture, had a profound impact on the history and development of the visual arts. Victor Horta, the Belgian architect considered to be the father of this innovative movement, was able to transcend the architectural conventions of the time by creating unique spaces that harmoniously combined functionality with exceptional aesthetics.
In 1893, he completed the Hôtel Tassel in Brussels, his emblematic masterpiece of Art Nouveau, which became the starting point of an artistic revolution that shaped the architectural landscape of Brussels and inspired generations of artists around the world.
Hôtel Solway, Bruxelles. © Manuel Bougot
Art nouveau / 5 Villas et Hôtels particuliers (2022)
Maison-Atelier Horta, Bruxelles. © Manuel Bougot
Art nouveau / 5 Villas et Hôtels particuliers (2022)
Throughout 2023, the city and its region are putting on a cultural programme focused on Art Nouveau to celebrate this artistic heritage. Art and architecture lovers, families and visitors alike will have the opportunity to attend lectures, themed exhibitions, guided tours and artistic workshops.
This programme is also an opportunity to (re)discover the architectural gems of Brussels, such as the Maison Saint-Cyr, the Horta Museum and the entire Squares district, full of magnificent buildings representing the very essence of Art Nouveau.
This year, which marks the 130th anniversary of the Hôtel Tassel and the tenth anniversary of World Art Nouveau Day, the city of Brussels is offering an exceptional programme and asserting its status as the international capital of this avant-garde artistic movement.
This article is illustrated by a selection of images from the book Art nouveau / 5 Villas and Mansions by photographer Manuel Bougot and art historian Vincent Bertaud du Chazaud.
Find out more about the book in our dedicated article.
