Connections Across Oceans: Debussy, Impressionism, and "The Floating World (Ukiyo-e)" of Japanese Art

Abstract

Debussy lived in Paris in the late nineteenth century and Paris at that time was very much a "happening" place; The Paris Exposition, Japonisme, and Impressionism were all blossoming. Japonisme was the most influencial art movement and it exerted a huge influence on many artists, Debussy being one of them. He collected, appreciated and was fascinated by Japanese wood prints and other artworks such as Netsuke. As an artist, Debussy received great inspiration from Japanese art for his composition. This paper focuses on the Japanese art world which Debussy loved and how Japanese art influenced his creativity as a musician and composer.