Artcyclopedia: Artists by Movement: Academic Art

Academic Art is the painting and sculpture produced under the influence of European academies--especially France--characterized by a highly polished style, use of mythological or historical subject matter, and moralistic tone. Neoclassical and salon art are also closely associated with the Academies.The term "Academic Art" is associated particularly with the French Academy and the 19th century salons at which art was submitted for display and prizes were awarded. Artists such as Jean-Leon Gerome and Bouguereau epitomize this style.