In terms of art, romanticism
has always been a reflection of the historical intellectual materialism in society. It sparked a rebellion against social norms as well as warm feelings, a vivid imagination, and freedom from other types of art. It can be seen in writing, poetry, music, artwork, and even criticism. The classist ideals of neo-classism, which promoted societal peace, serenity, and balance, were opposed by romanticists. It questioned the greater society's sense of reason and the embodiment of capitalism in the economy (Weller 34).
Artists that exhibited a strong degree of Romanticism
in their work helped to make this culture thriving. William Turner and William Blake are the subjects of this conversation. The artistic works of William Blake belong to Pre-Romanticism. His romantic significance was felt in the late 19th century. His poetical works reflected his childhood experiences. Blake was a strong believer in the liberty and freedom for every individual. He championed for the women’s rights in the society. Additionally, his views on the state and the church became controversial depending on his undisputable rationality. He was a strong follower of the traditional art, becoming an engraver by apprenticeship. To some extent, Blake differed with the ideals of the Royal Academy. However, he later published many works of art including Poetical Sketches. From his works, Blake manifested both deconstruction and incarnation in his poems. He knew how to combine verbal and visual tools to enlighten the society.
William Turner, on the other hand, focused on the history of Romanticism
He was an established landscape painter. He is also known for his oil paintings and the renowned watercolor landscape painting in Britain. Turner’s style of art became the foundation for the historical impressionism. Turner was more successful in his career, leaving more than 19000 pieces of art. He applied both classical genres and scenes to reflect on individual promoting human interaction with nature. He incorporated other modern phenomena such as railway trains and steamships into his paintings.
In conclusion, Romanticism became such a powerful cultural tendency
through the efforts of these outstanding artists. They succeeded in combining verbal genre and paintings to transform the society and change the natural perceptions of mankind.
Works Cited
Weller, Allen. “The New Romanticism.” The Art in America Journal, 2012, pp. 34-35.
