Metaphysics of a landscape in symbolism

Abstract

This research is dedicated to examination of a specific role of landscape in symbolism. Based on comprehensive analysis of the works of symbolists and artists of their circle – Segantini, Böcklin, Gauguin, Nesterov, Čiurlionis, the author attempts to determine the characteristic features of using the images of nature in the overall system of pictorial artistic-aesthetic expression. Special attention is paid to the problem of inscription of human figures into landscape, as in doing so many symbolists and artists of their circle were bringing the landscape to life, forming a special creative space. Landscape of symbolists is viewed as a peculiar animated space that carries a mediating role between the visually palpable images and indescribable pleroma of metaphysical being. Such approach to symbolism is considered innovative. In the course of this research, it is demonstrated that special artistic space as a carrier of symbolic meanings or a spirit of symbolism in painting emerges in each painters a set of artistic means of expression characteristic only to their works. At the same time, some symbolists view the unreachable in external forms of visible nature by focusing attention of the opposition of earth and sky, life and death, human and divine beginning, reality and its mythological grounds. Some symbolists create the world of practically abstract and musically accented color forms and graphic solutions. While others paint landscape imbued with tranquility, tenderness and picturesque hymns of the Creator. In general, symbolic landscape leans towards a fairly vivid philosophical aspect.