Georges Seurat The Life of an Artist
Although his time as an active artist was a short ten years, Georges Seurat made a name for himself during his lifetime and for years to come. Seurat was revolutionary in his artwork and is given the pivotal position in the evolution of modern painting; based on his characterizing technique, he created a whole new era of art: Neo-Impressionism. By the time he painted his third painting, Seurat had perfected his style and technique. ... From the time that he was born, December 2, 1859, Georges Seurat spent his entire life in Paris, France with the exception of his one-year military service in Brest. Seurat grew up in the bourgeois, commercial district of the city. ... During his time there, he studied academically under Heinrich Lehmann--he was a very well respected artist of his day. After a short time, Seurat became board with the academics of his class and turned to the fundamental artistic principals found in the art of old masters. ... In November of 1879, Seurat joined the army and served his time in Brest. After his service was completed, Seurat moved back to Paris where he rented a small studio just down from his parent’s home. From 1881-1884, Seurat worked independently without affiliating himself with any school or group, with the exception of his two close friends. ... During the span of 1883-1884, Seurat painted his first major painting: Une Baignade, Asnieres. ... It was during this exhibit that Seurat met his good friend Paul Signac who became a leading propagandist for the Neo-Impressionists (Homer).