Isidro Nonell Y Monturiol

Place: Barcelona

Born: 1872

Death: 1911

Biography:

Isidre Nonell i Monturiol, a Catalan artist, is renowned for his expressive portrayal of socially marginalized individuals in late 19th-century Barcelona. Born in 1872 and died in 1911, he is considered one of the most important artists of the Catalan Modernisme movement. His work is characterized by a unique blend of impressionism and pointillism, conveying a sense of emotion and directness.

Early Life and Training

Nonell's artistic ambitions began at an early age, influenced by his childhood friend Joaquim Mir. He studied at the Escola de Belles Arts de Barcelona from 1893 to 1895, where he met notable artists such as Ricard Canals and Juli Vallmitjana. The group, known as the "Saffron Group" or "Sant Martí Group," focused on landscape painting and the study of sunlight.

Artistic Career

Nonell's career was marked by a series of exhibitions and publications in various periodicals, including La Vanguardia, L'Esquella de la Torratxa, and Pèl & Ploma. In 1896, he traveled to the spa town of Caldes de Boí, where he encountered people suffering from cretinism, a subject that would later become a prominent theme in his work. A visit to Paris in 1897, where he shared a studio with Pablo Picasso, further influenced his artistic style. Nonell's paintings often featured women, including gypsy and working-class women, as well as still lifes. His use of thick strokes and layered colors created a sense of directness and emotion, drawing attention to the marginalized individuals he portrayed. The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya in Barcelona houses an extensive collection of his works.

Legacy and References

Nonell's contribution to the Catalan Modernisme movement is undeniable, and his work continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts. For more information on his life and work, visit the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya or explore his catalogue raisonné on www.isidrenonell.cat. A comprehensive guide to his work can be found in the book "Isidre Nonell (1872–1911)" published by Editorial MNAC and Fundación Cultural Mapfre.

• Catalan Modernisme movement: A cultural and artistic movement that emerged in Catalonia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Escola de Belles Arts de Barcelona: A fine arts school in Barcelona where Nonell studied from 1893 to 1895.
• Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya: A museum in Barcelona that houses an extensive collection of Catalan art, including works by Nonell.

Nonell's work can be explored further through the following links: https://Wikioo.org/@/Isidro-Nonell-Y-Monturiol https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isidre_Nonell