Pictorialism: A Study of the Emergence of Photography as an Art

Abstract

        This article explores the conflicts and developments of photography as an art form within the historical context. The objective is to present interdisciplinary knowledge to expand understanding and elevate interest in photographic studies. The study analyzes the movement of Pictorialism, the first art movement in the history of photography, and its relationship with the influences of technology, society, and culture from the 19^th century to the early 20^th century. The findings reveal that Pictorialism aimed to elevate photography as an art with intrinsic value and meaning beyond merely recording reality. This movement played a crucial role in gaining acceptance for photography as an art form during the 19^th century to the early 20^th century, providing a foundational basis for the development of photography in later periods. The emergence of Pictorialism stemmed from conflicts and discord between new and traditional ideas, leading to artistic debates and the pursuit of aesthetics in photography. These findings are related to the changes in social and cultural contexts influenced by advancements in knowledge and ideas under the challenging atmosphere of the First and Second Industrial Revolutions. Additionally, the integration and clash between the power of the new middle class and traditional values in Victorian society, as well as the influence of reproduction technology and mass-produced culture, which was emerging as mass culture, affected the perception of photography as an art form.