William Gilpin

William Gilpin was an Englishman in the 18th century known for his writings on aesthetics and landscape. He popularized the concept of "the picturesque," which describes a quality in landscapes that combines beauty, charm, and an artistic composition akin to a painting. Gilpin believed that certain natural scenes could evoke emotions similar to those found in art. He encouraged observing nature more attentively, proposing that roughness and variety enhance beauty. His ideas influenced the Romantic movement, shaping how people perceive and appreciate landscapes, emphasizing the emotional and aesthetic experience of nature.