The Model Nude 1915

Robert Henri, an American artist, created this oil painting titled "The Model Nude". Although undated, it probably comes from the early 20th century. At this time, the nude was an established academic subject. But Henri here disrupts the traditional art institution. He painted quickly and spontaneously, in a style that reflected modern life. In terms of subject matter, his work often focused on everyday people and urban scenes, rather than the aristocratic members favored in the earlier, more academic art that was the foundation of European society. He formed, and became the leading spirit of, the group known as “The Eight," who were also known as the Ashcan School for their interest in painting city life. To fully appreciate "The Model Nude", we might want to research Henri's association with these progressive artists and investigate how his urban realism challenged the established art institutions of his day. We can see how Henri’s break from tradition really democratizes art.