Les Nabis

Les Nabis arose as a resistance to academism. They disagreed with the photographic naturalism that was the benchmark. Les Nabis was a group that adopted a post-impressionist approach. In their work they emphasized feeling and emotion, this distinguishes them from the impressionists. However, the decorative had more importance in their work than the expressive. Their works were often greatly simplified. The group began to meet regularly. They often discussed the three issues they considered important, namely the scientific and mystical foundations of art, its social implications, and the desirability of a synthesis of the arts. The subjects of Les Nabis remained traditional: portraits, domestic interiors, scenes of life in Paris and religious scenes.