The Cliffs of Yport

Émile Bernard was a key figure in the early development of modern art. Dissatisfied with Impressionism’s various approaches, he sought a new direction; in 1886 and 1887 he conceived and pioneered Cloisonnism—a style characterized by bold, simplified designs, vibrant colors, and heavy outlines, reminiscent of age-old enamel techniques. This innovative approach laid the foundation for Synthetism and Symbolism.  

At a time when Cézanne was the primary influence for young avant-garde artists ("One might say, if one wished, that it was Cézanne who was the first to compartmentalize," remarked Paul Sérusier), Bernard and Paul Gauguin explored a more synthetic vision of art, directly challenging the Impressionists' analytical approach. During their time together in Pont-Aven in the summer of 1888, they developed a revolutionary concept: painting from memory rather than direct observation. No longer bound by plein-air methods, artists were now encouraged to interpret the subject through the mind rather than simply replicating it.  

P.S. How well do you know artists who followed Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Cézanne? Test yourself in our Quiz: Can You Guess These Post-Impressionist Painters? And if you didn't get all of the answers right, you can check out our online course Post-Impressionism 101!