Post-minimalism

Definition

Post-minimalism refers to an artistic movement that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a reaction to the strict formalism of minimalism. It incorporates elements of minimalism but expands upon them by emphasizing process, the use of everyday materials, and a more expressive and conceptual approach to art. This movement often critiques traditional notions of art-making and challenges institutional frameworks within the art world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-minimalism emerged in response to the limitations of minimalist art, seeking to explore more personal and subjective experiences.
2. Artists associated with post-minimalism often employed unconventional materials such as fabric, wood, and even found objects to create their works.
3. The movement is characterized by an emphasis on process-oriented practices, where the act of making becomes a significant aspect of the artwork itself.
4. Post-minimalist artists frequently critique institutional norms, revealing how these structures shape artistic production and audience perception.
5. Key figures in post-minimalism include artists like Eva Hesse, Robert Morris, and Richard Serra, who pushed boundaries beyond traditional minimalist aesthetics.

Review Questions

• How does post-minimalism differ from minimalism in terms of artistic approach and material usage?
  • Post-minimalism differs from minimalism by emphasizing a more expressive and conceptual approach to art-making. While minimalism focuses on simplicity and purity in form, post-minimalist artists incorporate a variety of materials, often choosing everyday objects that evoke personal or emotional responses. This shift allows for a deeper exploration of meaning and process, moving beyond the constraints set by minimalist principles.
• In what ways do post-minimalist artists critique traditional art institutions and practices?
  • Post-minimalist artists critique traditional art institutions by questioning their influence on what is considered valid art. They challenge the rigid structures that often dictate artistic production and reception, highlighting how these frameworks can limit creativity. By doing so, they aim to broaden the definitions of art and provoke discussions around accessibility, authority, and value within the art world.
• Evaluate the impact of post-minimalism on contemporary art practices and its relevance to ongoing discussions about institutional critique.
  • The impact of post-minimalism on contemporary art practices is significant, as it encourages artists to engage with personal narratives and diverse materials while questioning institutional norms. This movement laid the groundwork for subsequent explorations of identity, context, and the role of the viewer in art. Its relevance to discussions about institutional critique is profound, as it continues to inspire artists to examine power dynamics within the art world, pushing for inclusivity and a re-evaluation of established hierarchies in artistic practice.

Related terms

Minimalism: A movement in art that emphasizes simplicity and objectivity, focusing on minimal forms and materials without emotional expression.

Conceptual Art: An art form where the idea or concept behind the work takes precedence over traditional aesthetic concerns and physicality.

Institutional Critique: An approach in contemporary art that examines and questions the structures, systems, and practices within art institutions, often highlighting their influence on the creation and reception of art.