To what extent was Gustave Courbet the first modern artist?

Question

I really can't figure out what he actually achieved. how exactly was he the first modern artist?

Answer 1

I would locate the beginnings of modern painting in Courbet's painting The Painter's Studio (1855). In this work, he places himself center (the artist) and everyone else on the periphery. Even the nude model, a traditional subject, stands behind him. To the left and right are people he knew from the upper, middle, and lower classes.

The importance of this arrangement is that he is placing the artist (himself) as the central feature of the narrative. Modernism is very much about individualism and questions systems of authority. Traditionally, a painting of this size would be reserved for grand narrative paintings about French military victories or classical mythology. Instead, Coubet deals with his own "reality" and is thus the founder of Realism, which is concerned with the political and economic situation of the underclass.

If there is one common thread in modern painting, is is a rejection of traditional authority and increased importance of the individual, not just in painting, but politics, economics, religion, and all other forms of life.

Answer 2

Your question sounds exactly like a question an art teacher would ask his or her class and you sound like someone wanting others to do your homework for you. It ain't gonna be me!

But here is a suggestion on how you can figure it out yourself. Do a quick search on Courbet's life, and time of death. Then look at some examples of his art. Then look at examples of art being painted by other artists that were alive around the same time. The rest is up to you.

Answer 3

Many of the Impressionists know him well and possibly influenced by him to some extend. However, most scholars would credit Paul Cezanne as the first modern artist.