Our party was inspired by the cultural, artistic, literary and musical salons in Paris post Prussian War and before World War One. The Golden Age, the Belle Epoque. This was an exciting time for exploratory arts, technological advances, free thinking and free love. There was a particular obsession for all things ‘oriental’ thus North Africa, Turkey, Persia, Bohemia, The Far East, Byzantium….thus was born this ecclectic, pan-cultural ‘Bohemian look’ for most of the art world. The 1890’s Paris saw the emergence of bourgeoisie, industrialists, and dealers supporting already seasoned avant-garde artists like Cézanne, Gauguin, and Van Gogh, alongside wealthy Belle Époqueelites drawn to new entertainments and cosmopolitan tastes; hosting international artists and intellectuals, highlighting a mix of private collecting, dealer-driven support, and societal interest in art during the era. Often times these gatherings would debut young artists like Gustav Klimt; formally trained, awarded with honours and part of new art movements who were in search of patrons and sponsors ; willing to do what it takes to advance their careers.
