In the ‘Belle Epoque’ an elegant and sinuous period style flourished. Deriving from Pre-Raphaelitism and the Arts and Crafts Movement, and inspired by the organic growth of such natural forms as poppies, convolvulus, hair and water; Art Nouveau soon became the dominant style of Europe and America, spreading like wildfire among new and radical designers and fine artists.

Called ‘Art Nouveau’ in England, ironically it was known as ‘Style Anglais’ in France, and by a dozen other names, including ‘Jugendstil’ in Germany, and ‘Secessionistil’ in Austria. It encompassed a vast array of talents, including the Aestheticism of Beardsley and Whistler, the Symbolism of Moreau and Khnopff, the Modernism of Klimt, the Expressionism of Schiele, and the individual genius of such artists as Alfons Mucha, Rene Lalique and Antoni Gaudi.

This study course looks at the richness of Art Nouveau in the Fine and Decorative Arts – including painting, posters, illustration, sculpture, architecture, textiles, metalwork, glass, furniture, ceramics and much more. Illustrated with beautiful and seductive colour slides throughout.

A graduate of Liverpool College of Art, Adrian Sumner has worked as an Illustrator, Arts Development Officer and Lecturer in various academic and public institutions including NADFAS. Latterly he was Arts Development Officer for Cheshire West and Chester Council, with a particular interest in Visual Arts. Currently he divides his time between organising study weekends in Britain, cruise ship lectures, painting and exhibiting, and delivering study days and single lectures in Britain and abroad.

Click here for the full programme.

Residential prices start from £235, non-residential from £160. Discount rates for clergy and students apply.

For more information or to book, please call 01244 532350 or email [email protected].