It flourished between 1890 and 1910 throughout the united states and europe. It was inspired by nature and the structures throughout nature such as the curves in flowers, plants, and others. It was most easily identified by long continues organic lines which curves and turns throughout the piece. It embraced all ranges of art including jewelry, glass, and interior design. Nouveau Art was a break away from strict geometry in art and a move towards free flowing, natural, and beautiful artistic pieces; even though they may not be “correct”.
Sudden enlightenment is the answer in this question. This statement used as a metaphor to express the sudden enlightenment, the Zen priest-painters used a painting technique which they called haboku a splashed ink. In short the thing they called haboku used as a metaphor to express sudden enlightenment.