GALLERY 10

A Modern World

Economic competition between nations in Europe gave birth to the Industrial Revolution, which initially powered Europe’s colonial enterprises before spread progressively to the rest of the world during the 19th century. Colonialism, photography and the development of new modes of transport provided European artists with new, international sources of inspiration while technological innovations and artistic creativity were glorified in new, universal exhibitions. By capturing reality and eliminating distance, photography gave the individual the impression of taking possession of the world. Since its invention, photography revolutionised artistic creation, prompting painters in Europe, then around the world, to drastically alter the way they capture images and interpret reality.