33 Facts About Degas

Early Life and Background

Edgar Degas, a French artist famous for his paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings, had a fascinating life. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this remarkable artist.

1. Born on July 19, 1834, in Paris, France, Degas was the eldest of five children.
2. His full name was Hilaire-Germain-Edgar De Gas, but he later changed it to the more simplified "Degas."
3. Degas came from a wealthy family; his father was a banker, and his mother came from a family of New Orleans Creole descent.
4. He initially studied law but abandoned it to pursue art, enrolling at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.

Artistic Influences and Education

Degas' education and influences played a significant role in shaping his unique style. Here are some key points about his artistic journey.

5. He was heavily influenced by the works of Ingres, Delacroix, and other classical artists.
6. Degas spent three years in Italy, studying Renaissance art and copying works by masters like Michelangelo and Raphael.
7. He was a meticulous student, often spending hours in the Louvre, copying paintings to hone his skills.
8. His early works were historical paintings, but he gradually shifted to modern subjects.

Impressionist Movement

Degas is often associated with the Impressionist movement, although he had his unique approach. Let's explore his role in this artistic revolution.

9. He preferred to call himself a "realist" or "independent" rather than an Impressionist.
10. Unlike other Impressionists, Degas focused more on line and form rather than light and color.
11. He was a founding member of the Impressionist group and participated in seven of their eight exhibitions.
12. Degas had a keen interest in capturing modern life, often depicting scenes of Parisian society.

Ballet and Dance

One of Degas' most famous subjects was ballet. His works in this area are iconic. Here are some facts about his ballet-themed art.

13. Degas created over 1,500 works featuring dancers, including paintings, pastels, drawings, and sculptures.
14. He often visited the Paris Opéra to observe and sketch ballet dancers in action.
15. His famous sculpture, "Little Dancer of Fourteen Years," caused a scandal when first exhibited due to its realistic portrayal.
16. Degas' ballet works are celebrated for their dynamic composition and attention to movement.

Techniques and Mediums

Degas was a versatile artist who experimented with various techniques and mediums. Let's look at some of his methods.

17. He was one of the first artists to use pastels extensively, creating vibrant and textured works.
18. Degas often used a technique called "monotype," which involves drawing on a metal plate and then transferring the image to paper.
19. He experimented with photography, using it as a tool to study movement and composition.
20. Degas was known for his innovative use of cropping and unusual viewpoints, influenced by Japanese prints.

Personal Life and Personality

Degas had a complex personality and personal life, which influenced his art. Here are some insights into his character.

21. He never married and was known to be a bit of a recluse, preferring the company of a few close friends.
22. Degas had a reputation for being irritable and difficult, often clashing with other artists and critics.
23. Despite his gruff exterior, he was deeply loyal to his friends and supported many struggling artists financially.
24. He suffered from deteriorating eyesight later in life, which affected his ability to paint.

Legacy and Impact

Degas left a lasting legacy in the art world. His influence can still be seen today. Here are some facts about his impact.

25. He is considered one of the founders of modern art, influencing artists like Picasso and Matisse.
26. Degas' works are housed in major museums worldwide, including the Louvre, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Musée d'Orsay.
27. His innovative techniques and focus on modern subjects paved the way for future art movements like Expressionism and Cubism.
28. Degas' art continues to be celebrated for its technical mastery and emotional depth.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts and interesting tidbits about Degas that add more color to his story.

29. He was an avid collector of art, amassing a significant collection of works by artists like Manet, Cézanne, and Gauguin.
30. Degas was also a music lover and often attended opera performances, which influenced his art.
31. He had a strong interest in horses and created numerous works depicting horse races and jockeys.
32. Degas was known for his witty and sometimes biting remarks, often making sharp observations about society and art.
33. Despite his success, Degas remained humble, often downplaying his achievements and focusing on his continual quest for artistic perfection.

The Legacy of Degas

Edgar Degas left an indelible mark on the world of art. Known for his ballet dancers, racehorses, and intimate portraits, Degas captured movement and emotion like no other. His innovative techniques and unique perspectives challenged traditional norms, pushing the boundaries of Impressionism and beyond. Though often seen as a recluse, his work spoke volumes, influencing countless artists and movements. Degas' dedication to his craft, even as his eyesight failed, showed his unwavering passion for art. His legacy lives on in museums, galleries, and the hearts of art lovers worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or just discovering his work, Degas' masterpieces offer a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of human experience. So next time you see one of his pieces, take a moment to appreciate the genius behind the brushstrokes.