Abstract expressionism

Definition

Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by a focus on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, emphasizing the expressive potential of color and form. This movement marked a significant shift in American art, integrating European modernist influences and shaping a new identity for American artists on the global stage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract expressionism was significantly influenced by European modernism, especially the works of artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Pablo Picasso.
2. The movement is often divided into two main categories: action painting, which focuses on the physical act of painting, and color field painting, which emphasizes color as the primary medium.
3. Artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko became key figures in this movement, pushing boundaries in terms of technique and emotional expression.
4. The term 'abstract expressionism' was coined in the late 1940s and helped to define a uniquely American approach to modern art during the Cold War era.
5. Abstract expressionism not only influenced American artists but also had a profound impact on international art movements, inspiring various forms of contemporary art across the globe.

Review Questions

• How did European modernism contribute to the development of abstract expressionism in America?
  • European modernism laid the groundwork for abstract expressionism by introducing concepts such as abstraction and experimentation with form and color. Artists fleeing Europe during World War II brought these ideas to America, which allowed American artists to adapt and reinterpret them. This interaction led to a new art movement that embraced spontaneity and personal expression, moving away from traditional forms and paving the way for a distinctly American identity in modern art.
• Discuss how surrealism's influence can be seen in the works of abstract expressionist artists.
  • Surrealism's emphasis on tapping into the subconscious played a critical role in shaping the philosophies behind abstract expressionism. Artists such as Jackson Pollock employed automatic techniques similar to those used by surrealists, allowing them to access deeper emotional responses while creating their artwork. This connection between the two movements can be observed through the spontaneous nature of action painting and how it seeks to express inner feelings rather than represent external reality.
• Evaluate the global impact of abstract expressionism on contemporary art practices and movements worldwide.
  • Abstract expressionism significantly influenced contemporary art by encouraging artists to prioritize personal expression and emotional authenticity over traditional techniques. Its global impact can be seen in various movements such as Neo-Expressionism and Performance Art, where artists continue to explore themes of individuality and spontaneity. The movement's reach extended beyond America, inspiring artists around the world to experiment with abstraction and challenge conventional forms, thereby transforming the landscape of modern art.

Related terms

Gestural Abstraction: A style within abstract expressionism that emphasizes the act of painting itself, often characterized by dynamic brushstrokes and a sense of movement.

Color Field Painting:

A subset of abstract expressionism focused on large areas of color and minimalistic design, creating an immersive experience for the viewer.

Surrealism: An avant-garde movement that sought to unleash the creative potential of the unconscious mind, influencing many American artists who later contributed to abstract expressionism.