What exactly is Avant Garde?

S

sofie

New member
What is Avant Garde exactly? Can you explain where it came from and show me some images please? Thanks.
The reason I ask is because I used it the other day without fully knowing what I was saying. LOL!

My friend was asking what the band Nine Inch Nails was like. And I told him that it's very Avant Garde, and he would just have to listen for himself. Then my other girl friend said, "No, it's not Avant Garde, it's just different." I thought I was using it properly but now I'm wondering lol.
 
It means new and eccentric...usually referring to art. Something that passes what's considered "normal" for the sake of creativity.
 
It is impossible to give a precise definition, as the expression implies something new, daring and unorthodox. It started with the world of art and is still used to describe something which takes some getting used to and which can be shockingly daring and innovative. It is French and the French term means "vanguard" -- the part of the army going in front and leading the way.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/avant-garde
http://mustekala.kaapeli.fi/artikkelit/1070380027/index_html
 
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