Throughout history, countless art styles have emerged, each defining its own era with unique characteristics and beauty. This list will explore and rate the top five art styles that stand out for their eye-catching designs and aesthetic appeal.
Art Deco
Emerging in the 1920s and flourishing throughout the 1930s, Art Deco is characterized by its geometric and streamlined design, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. Artists like George Barbier, Zinaida Serebriakova, and Erté helped define this style. Artworks such as A Century of Progress by Weimer Pursell (1933), Young Lady with Gloves by Tamara de Lempicka (1930), and Mail Service in the Tropics by Rockwell Kent (1937) showcase the Art Deco movement. Art Deco is able to achieve so much with minimal elements, making it both simple and fun. The only unappealing part is the lack of originality. It prioritizes simplicity so much that it sometimes fails to look unique or special, but a collection of reused procedures instead. Making it feel repetitive and uninteresting after a while. Therefore, Art Deco gets a 9.5 out of 10.
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau, which was popular from the 1890s to the 1910s, is celebrated for its dynamic, asymmetrical designs that convey a natural, organic feel. Renowned artists like Antoni Gaudí, Louis Sullivan, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec were pivotal in shaping this style. Notable works such as The Peacock Skirt by Aubrey Beardsley (1893), The Seasons by Alphonse Mucha (1897), and Le Zodiaque by Alphonse Mucha (1896-1897) are a part of its rich complexity. The only concern is that the colors can look a bit odd at times. Certain elements can look very detailed and almost realistic, while others can look simple and free-flowing. This can cause discontentment if not done properly. It’s still very admirable how Art Nouveau blends elegance with freedom through its dynamic structures, earning it a solid 9 out of 10.
Arts & Crafts
Originating in the late 19th century and lasting until the 1910s, the Arts & Crafts movement sought to change the decorative design standards by emphasizing simplicity and the beauty of raw materials. Influential artists like William Morris, Edward Burne-Jones, and Walter Crane were key figures in this style. Example works include Tulip & Rose by Morris & Co. (1876), Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales by William Morris (1896), and Helping Angel Window Panel by John La Farge (1890). Though it can be very beautiful, there are times when it can all feel like too much. Too many subjects in the piece can start to cause eye fatigue and make the art feel cluttered and messy. Despite this, its almost medieval, architectural vibe and the movement’s naturalness, vibrant colors, and simplicity can be very captivating. Arts & Crafts is also receiving a 9 out of 10 rating.
Pop Art
Pop Art, which emerged in the mid-1950s and thrived into the late 1970s, is known for its vibrant, comic-like style that even influenced major comic companies like Marvel. Iconic artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and James Rosenquist were key figures in this movement. Pieces from this style include Warhol’s Marilyn Diptych (1962), Lichtenstein’s Drowning Girl (1963), and Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans (1968). Although some bright, bold colors and poses can be overwhelming, Pop Art manages to walk the balance perfectly while keeping its dramatic flair. Though its dramatic flair can make it feel very unserious at times. If not done properly, a very serious topic can come across as beautiful but a little silly. Though difficult, it’s not impossible for artists to achieve a serious feel. One example being old Marvel comics, which were able to create many impactful moments like character deaths, through this style. Its ability to challenge any conventions with such vibrancy earns it a rating of 8.5 out of 10.
Impressionism
Impressionism, a movement that gained popularity from 1867 to 1886, is renowned for its use of small, visible brushstrokes to create the illusion of form. This style was pioneered by famous artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas, and remains widely recognized today. Works like Gustave Caillebotte’s Paris Street, Rainy Day (1877), Monet’s Impression, Sunrise (1872), and Woman with a Parasol – Madame Monet and Her Son (1875), showcase the movement’s characteristic dreamlike and blurred aesthetic. Though, the shapelessness of it can feel a bit messy at times. If done incorrectly, it can be displayed as a bunch of colors and strokes all jumbled on a canvas. However, if done correctly, Impressionism can evoke a calm, serene, and almost whimsical feeling through the art. This creativity and unique approach to capturing light and movement earns Impressionism an 8 out of 10.
There are so many art styles out there that weren’t covered here. Just because they weren’t mentioned doesn’t mean they’re not outstanding. The styles chosen show how art changes over time. Each style captures its time period’s ideals and creativity. These examples show how art keeps changing and growing, taking the old and using it to create something new and original.
