Barnett Newman

Definition

Barnett Newman was an influential American abstract painter known for his role in the development of Color Field painting and his contributions to the Abstract Expressionist movement. His work is characterized by large fields of color, bold use of line, and a focus on the emotional experience of the viewer. Newman's ideas about art were deeply intertwined with existential philosophy, which he believed could be expressed through the experience of vastness and the sublime in art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Newman is known for creating monumental works such as 'Vir Heroicus Sublimis,' which features a large field of red paint with a central zip, emphasizing the emotional response to color.
2. His concept of the 'zip' not only served as a compositional device but also represented a profound emotional or spiritual separation, challenging viewers to reflect on their experience.
3. Newman's writings often discussed art's potential to evoke existential thoughts and feelings, linking his work closely to existential philosophy.
4. He was one of the first artists to challenge traditional notions of space and composition in painting, advocating for a direct confrontation between the artwork and the viewer.
5. Newman faced considerable criticism during his career but has since been recognized as a pivotal figure in both Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting.

Review Questions

• How did Barnett Newman's use of color and form contribute to the development of Color Field painting?
  • Barnett Newman's innovative approach to Color Field painting focused on creating vast expanses of color that aimed to evoke deep emotional responses from viewers. His strategic use of bold colors combined with his signature 'zip' lines created a dynamic interplay within his compositions, enhancing the overall impact of the artwork. This emphasis on color as a primary means of expression not only defined his own work but also influenced other artists in the Color Field movement, pushing boundaries beyond traditional painting techniques.
• In what ways did existentialism influence Barnett Newman's artistic philosophy and approach?
  • Existentialism significantly shaped Barnett Newman's artistic philosophy, as he believed that art should express human experiences of existence and confrontation with the sublime. He viewed his large-scale paintings as spaces where viewers could confront their own emotions and existential realities. This philosophical underpinning encouraged him to create artworks that moved beyond mere representation, instead inviting viewers into an intimate engagement with their own perceptions and feelings regarding life and existence.
• Evaluate the controversies surrounding Barnett Newman's work during his career and how these controversies reflect broader debates in Abstract Expressionism.
  • Barnett Newman's work faced significant criticism for its perceived simplicity and lack of traditional technique, which sparked debates within Abstract Expressionism about what constitutes meaningful art. Critics questioned whether such large fields of color could convey depth or significance, while supporters argued that Newman’s art encapsulated profound emotional experiences. These controversies highlighted broader discussions about abstraction's role in modern art and its capacity to express complex human emotions and thoughts, ultimately positioning Newman as a key figure in these evolving artistic conversations.

Related terms

Color Field Painting: A style of abstract painting that emphasizes large areas of a single color or related colors, often conveying emotion and mood through color rather than form.

Zip: A term coined by Newman to describe the vertical lines that frequently appear in his paintings, symbolizing a divide or separation that enhances the experience of color.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, often dealing with themes of meaninglessness and the human condition.