Unveiling the Everlasting Influence of Gustav Klimt

The short-lived but memorable movement of Art Nouveau, which took place at the turn of the past century, is characterized by flowing lines of nature. Turning away from imitative historicism, the advocates of the movement aimed to draw inspiration from nature and create a harmonious work of art. Among architects, designers, and even writers, Art Nouveau deeply affected renowned painters, in particular Gustav Klimt. 

Born in 1862 in Vienna, the artist spent his entire life in the city, inspired by Austrian culture and co-founding the Vienna Secession movement. Being the main figure of Austrian art nouveau, Klimt’s renowned painting “The Kiss” is a tribute to nature. The unearthly and sacred feeling produced by the painting is elevated by the Art Nouveau ornaments atop the figures. The male figure is covered with rectangular forms, while the female is sinking in round and floral ones, creating the contrast and emphasizing femininity. 

Captured by the sublime power of Klimt’s paintings, Dorit Levinstein, a sculptor whose artworks are all elegance and joy, inspired by the renowned artist, created Mother & Child, her version of one of his artworks. The tender sculpture depicting the loving relationship between a mother and her child is a part of Levinstein’s “Studying the Masters” collection, her way of paying homage to the greatest while exploring her style. Similarly, in the sequence of “New Love” sculptures, the artist pays another tribute, New Love - Homage to Klimt, decorating the curved word “Love” with Klimt’s renowned Art Nouveau ornaments and a rendition of “The Kiss” itself. 

Neither Eduardo Kobra, a renowned South American muralist, could resist the magnetic power of “The Kiss,” reproducing it in one of his murals, Beijo I. In his signature multicolor and with clear pop art influence, the artwork is a combination of multiple styles and epochs. Vivid like the city of San Paolo, where Kobra comes from, the artwork is an appraisal of nature, talent, and the boundlessness of contemporary art. 

Remaining the most famous Austrian artist, and a key figure of various movements, Gustav Klimt is an inspiration, role model, and magnet for contemporary artists. He is another proof of timeless talent and genius.