Art Nouveau is an ornate and decorative art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, aiming to break away from the rigid academic styles of the time. Known as Jugendstil in Germany and Modernisme in Spain, this movement embraced organic forms, intricate patterns, and flowing, asymmetrical designs inspired by nature. Art Nouveau had a wide-reaching influence, shaping architecture, visual arts, decorative arts, fashion, and advertising. During its peak from the 1890s to the early 1900s, Art Nouveau artists sought to create a total work of art (Gesamtkunstwerk), where every element of design—whether a building façade, furniture, or typography—was harmoniously integrated. This movement placed a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and artistic individuality, incorporating motifs such as floral patterns, curving lines, and mythological symbolism. Notable figures like Alphonse Mucha, with his ethereal and decorative posters, Hector Guimard, who designed the iconic Paris Métro entrances, and Gustav Klimt, whose paintings blended Art Nouveau ornamentation with symbolism, played pivotal roles in shaping the movement’s aesthetic. Additionally, Louis Comfort Tiffany revolutionized glasswork with his stained-glass designs, further cementing Art Nouveau’s impact on the decorative arts. Although Art Nouveau’s popularity declined after World War I, as more streamlined modernist movements took hold, its legacy endures. The movement laid the foundation for Art Deco and modern design, and its influence can still be seen in contemporary architecture, illustration, and interior design. With its fusion of nature and artistry, Art Nouveau remains a timeless and influential force in the world of visual arts.