Why was Cezanne shunned by his hometown during his life?

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Paul Cézanne was shunned by his hometown during his life due to prevailing artistic tastes and a significant rift with the local museum.

During his lifetime and for decades after his death, Paul Cézanne faced considerable animosity from both critics and his native city of Aix-en-Provence. This rejection was so profound that for many years, the Granet Museum in his hometown housed only a single, modest copy of a classic male nude, a work from his student days. This situation persisted even after his death in 1906, with the then-conservator of the Granet Museum, Henri Pontier, vowing that no work by Cézanne would be admitted to the museum as long as he lived.
Prevailing Artistic Climate and Critical Reception

The artistic landscape of Cézanne's era favoured different styles, and his innovative approach was not immediately embraced. While the specific reasons for the critical hatred are not detailed, it is evident that his work diverged from the established norms. This divergence likely contributed to the lack of acceptance during his active career.
The Granet Museum's Long-Standing Rejection

A significant manifestation of Aix-en-Provence's estrangement from its famous son was the Granet Museum's persistent refusal to exhibit his art. This policy was maintained for decades after Cézanne's death. The promise by conservator Henri Pontier to exclude Cézanne's works from the museum's collection underscored the deep-seated animosity that extended well beyond the artist's lifetime.
A Gradual Reconciliation

The long-standing rift between Cézanne and his native city only began to mend in 2006, a century after his death, when the Granet Museum finally held its first exhibition dedicated to his work. This marked a turning point, leading to a more public embrace of their local painter. The city has since designated 2025 as "Cézanne's Year," organising a series of events to celebrate his artistic legacy and put historical estrangement behind them.

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Why was Cezanne shunned by his hometown during his life?

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