Step into the bustling streets of 19th-century Paris, where the French academic tradition reigned supreme in the world of art education. Rooted deeply in the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts, this tradition emphasized a rigorous curriculum focused on classical techniques, historical subjects, and adherence to established conventions. Yet, behind the grand façade of the École lurked a stifling atmosphere, where the creative voices of those daring to challenge its conventions were silenced. Moreover, such a renowned art institution enforced stringent policies concerning the admission of women and foreigners seeking to enroll. Women were not recruited by the school until as late as 1897, and even then, they encountered substantial obstacles to entry. Regarding foreigners, although there was no explicit policy against their admission, the École des Beaux-Arts nonetheless favored French citizens and subjected foreigners to challenging French language exams. It was against this backdrop that a relatively obscure painter’s studio, known later as Académie Julian, emerged as a haven of artistic freedom and a bustling center for figure painting in 19th-century Paris. But what’s the story behind this remarkable art studio that changed how people painted and drew from life models in 19th-century Paris?
