Edgar Degas was a prominent French artist during the 19th century Impressionist movement. Although he did not identify as an Impressionist in the same way as other artists, he was strongly influenced by the movement and experimented with vivid use of color in his depictions of various subjects, including cabaret performers. Degas’ works often speak to a culture of insidiousness portrayed in seemingly innocent settings, such as cabaret performances, highlighting the darker aspects of city life.
One of Degas’ works featuring cabaret performers is the painting Cabaret (c.1877), which depicts a group of dancers in a cabaret setting. The painting features bright colors and detailed attention to the costumes and movements of the performers. Degas’ use of vivid color is reminiscent of the Impressionist style, while his attention to detail draws influence from classical education and Italian paintings.
Degas was known for his descriptions of his subjects and attention to detail. However, he faced financial struggles and had to rely on income from his paintings for survival. Despite these difficulties, Degas’ works continue to be studied and appreciated for their unique style and subject matter. Detroit’s art community has created a variety of platforms for creative exchange and experimentation, with Degas’ work serving as a source of inspiration for both emerging and established artists alike.
