Art with symbols has always been more than what meets the eye
From mythological creatures to subtle gestures, Symbolist artists mastered the craft of embedding meaning into their work, turning every image into a doorway to the imagination. In this post, we’ll explore Symbolists you should know and why, uncovering the stories, techniques, and symbolic layers behind their most iconic works.
What is Symbolism in Art?
The Symbolism movement emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction to realism and naturalism. Instead of depicting the world as it appeared, Symbolist artists sought to express emotions, dreams, and spiritual ideas through visual metaphors. They believed that hidden meanings, allegories, and mystical imagery could convey the truths that literal representation could not.
In essence, art with symbols is a language, one that communicates universal human experiences, psychological states, and the mysteries of existence through shapes, colors, and figures.
Symbolists You Should Know
Gustave Moreau (1826–1898)
Famous Works: The Apparition, Orpheus
Why You Should Know Him: Moreau’s paintings are intricate tapestries of myth, legend, and biblical stories. Every figure, gesture, and background element carries symbolic meaning, inviting viewers to explore the hidden narratives behind the visual spectacle. His work laid the groundwork for future movements, influencing Surrealism and modern allegorical art.
Odilon Redon (1840–1916)
Famous Works: The Cyclops, Smiling Spider
Why You Should Know Him: Redon’s creations are dreamlike and introspective, often blurring the line between reality and imagination. His use of art with symbols encourages viewers to engage emotionally, interpreting images that seem to emerge from the subconscious.
Edvard Munch (1863–1944)
Famous Works: The Scream, Madonna
Why You Should Know Him: Munch transformed raw emotion into visual form, using colour, line, and composition to express fear, despair, and longing. His paintings act as art with symbols, portraying psychological and existential themes that are still relevant today.
Jean Delville (1867–1953)
Famous Works: The School of Plato, Human Destiny
Why You Should Know Him: Delville combined mysticism, philosophy, and symbolism in his paintings. His works are layered with allegories that invite contemplation of the soul, morality, and human potential.
Carlos Schwabe (1866–1926)
Famous Works: Death and the Grave Digger, The Silence of the Sea
Why You Should Know Him: Schwabe’s work is emotionally charged and allegorical, exploring life, death, and the spiritual realm. Every brushstroke is a symbolic message, making him a master of art with symbols.
Félicien Rops (1833–1898)
Famous Works: Pornocrates, The Temptation of Saint Anthony
Why You Should Know Him: Rops explored eroticism, mortality, and vice through bold imagery. His prints and paintings challenge viewers to interpret layered meanings, demonstrating how art with symbols can provoke thought and emotion.
Albert Pinkham Ryder (1847–1917)
Famous Works: The Race Track (Death on a Pale Horse), The Waste of Waters is Their Field
Why You Should Know Him: Ryder’s moody seascapes and allegorical compositions evoke dreams and myths. He used symbolism to capture universal themes, creating art with symbols that transcends time.
Albert Pinkham Ryder (1847–1917)
Famous Works: The Race Track (Death on a Pale Horse), The Waste of Waters is Their Field
Why You Should Know Him: Ryder’s moody seascapes and allegorical compositions evoke dreams and myths. He used symbolism to capture universal themes, creating art with symbols that transcends time.
How to Appreciate Art with Symbols
Notice details: Objects, colors, and gestures are often symbolic.
Explore mythology and literature: Many Symbolist works reference classical stories or philosophical ideas.
Interpret personally: Symbolist art is open-ended; your own experiences shape your understanding.
Reflect on emotion: Ask yourself how the painting makes you feel, many Symbolists designed art to evoke emotion as much as thought.
