William Blake: An Overview

Introduction

• William Blake (1757-1827) was an influential poet, painter, and engraver.
• His work was largely overlooked during his lifetime.
• Celebrated today as a significant figure of the Romantic era.

Background

• Blake was born in London to working-class parents.
• Experienced visions from a young age, influencing his art and poetry.
• Enrolled in art classes at age 10 and later trained as an engraver.

Artistic Ideology

• Blake's work is rooted in Romanticism, which valued emotion over reason.
• Challenged Enlightenment ideals and neoclassical realism.
• His art focused on the imagination and the expression of intense emotions.

Influences and Peers

• Other Romantic artists: JMW Turner, John Constable, Eugène Delacroix, Francisco Goya, Henri Fuseli.
• Blake's unique style was considered avant-garde even among Romantics.

Career Development

• Blake apprenticed with engraver James Basire; studied Medieval and Renaissance art.
• Left engraver apprenticeship in his early 20s to study at the Royal Academy but dropped out.
• Worked as an engraver while developing his own artistic style.

Major Works

• Poetical Sketches (1783): First book of poems, themes of nature and political commentary.
• Songs of Innocence (1789) and Songs of Experience: Explored themes of childhood, society, and emotional depth.
• Collar Prints (1795): A series of 12 designs featuring historical, mythical, and biblical subjects.

Style and Techniques

• Developed a unique printing method called relief etching.
• Emphasized geometric style and vibrant color use in his artwork.

Challenges and Recognition

• Struggled financially and critically; often viewed as an outsider artist.
• Experienced a downturn in popularity after a poorly received solo show in 1809.
• Despite his challenges, formed connections with patrons like Thomas Butts and John Linnell.

Later Years and Legacy

• Blake's radical views isolated him but also inspired a group of young artists known as the Ancients.
• Died in relative obscurity in 1827, but his genius was recognized posthumously.
• Influenced numerous art movements, including the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and Symbolism.

Recent Recognition

• A major retrospective of Blake's work was held in London from September 2019 to February 2020, showcasing over 300 artworks.

Conclusion

• Blake's contributions to art and literature continue to resonate, influencing artists across generations.