Abstract expressionism

Definition

Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. It emphasizes individual expression and the exploration of emotions through abstract forms, colors, and gestural brushwork. This movement marked a significant shift in the art world, moving away from representational art towards a focus on abstraction, which can be closely tied to abstract photography's exploration of visual perception and emotional resonance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract expressionism developed primarily in New York City after World War II, establishing the city as a central hub for modern art.
2. Key artists associated with this movement include Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning, who utilized innovative techniques such as drip painting.
3. The movement was heavily influenced by existential philosophy and psychology, particularly the ideas of spontaneity and subconscious expression.
4. Abstract expressionism played a crucial role in shifting the focus of the art world from Europe to America during the mid-20th century.
5. The movement laid the groundwork for later artistic developments such as Minimalism and Conceptual Art, influencing generations of artists.

Review Questions

• How did abstract expressionism challenge traditional notions of art and representation?
  • Abstract expressionism challenged traditional notions by prioritizing personal expression over representational accuracy. Instead of depicting recognizable forms or subjects, artists focused on conveying emotions and spontaneous creativity through abstract forms and colors. This shift allowed for a more subjective interpretation of art, encouraging viewers to engage with the work on an emotional level rather than a purely aesthetic one.
• In what ways did the techniques employed by abstract expressionists contribute to the movement's overall impact on modern art?
  • The techniques used by abstract expressionists, such as drip painting and gestural brushwork, contributed significantly to the movement's impact by emphasizing the act of creation itself. These methods highlighted the physical process of painting, allowing viewers to appreciate the energy and emotion embedded in each work. The focus on spontaneity and personal expression opened up new avenues for artistic exploration, influencing subsequent movements and changing perceptions of what art could be.
• Evaluate the influence of existential philosophy on abstract expressionism and its broader implications for contemporary art practices.
  • Existential philosophy profoundly influenced abstract expressionism by emphasizing individual experience, freedom, and the role of emotion in creativity. Artists like Pollock and Rothko were inspired to create works that reflected their inner turmoil and search for meaning in a chaotic world. This philosophical grounding not only shaped abstract expressionism but also resonated with contemporary art practices that explore identity, psychology, and social commentary, leading to diverse expressions of human experience in modern artistic endeavors.

Related terms

Gestural Abstraction: A style within abstract expressionism that emphasizes the act of painting itself, where brushstrokes are visible and often dynamic, reflecting the artist's emotions.

Color Field Painting: A subgenre of abstract expressionism that focuses on large areas of color and simplified forms to evoke a mood or experience, often devoid of representational elements.

Non-representational Art: Art that does not depict recognizable subjects or forms, focusing instead on elements like color, shape, and texture to convey meaning.