Abstract expressionism

Definition

Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. It focuses on the expressive and emotional qualities of paint, often using large canvases and gestural brushwork. The movement reflects a shift in artistic values, emphasizing individual experience and the exploration of abstract forms over traditional representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract expressionism originated in New York City after World War II, making it a significant American contribution to global art.
2. Key figures include artists like Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning, who each developed their unique approaches within the movement.
3. The movement was influenced by earlier artistic trends such as surrealism and cubism, incorporating elements of chance and spontaneity into the creative process.
4. Abstract expressionism challenged traditional notions of art by prioritizing emotion and personal expression over representational accuracy.
5. The movement gained international recognition through exhibitions, such as the 1951 'New American Painting' show, which introduced abstract expressionist works to European audiences.

Review Questions

• How did abstract expressionism redefine the role of the artist in relation to the artwork?
  • Abstract expressionism redefined the role of the artist by positioning them as an active participant in the creative process rather than a mere craftsman. Artists like Jackson Pollock emphasized spontaneity and physical engagement with materials, allowing for personal emotions and experiences to inform their work. This shift encouraged a more intimate relationship between the artist and their art, as the act of creation became as important as the finished piece.
• Discuss the impact of abstract expressionism on the art market and how it changed perceptions of modern art.
  • Abstract expressionism significantly impacted the art market by elevating contemporary American artists to international prominence and establishing New York City as a new art capital. This movement shifted perceptions of modern art from traditional aesthetics towards an appreciation for emotional depth and personal narrative. As collectors began to value these innovative works, prices soared, leading to a burgeoning market for abstract expressionist pieces that reflected broader cultural changes.
• Evaluate how abstract expressionism's emphasis on individual experience connects with its historical context in post-World War II America.
  • The emphasis on individual experience in abstract expressionism is deeply connected to its historical context in post-World War II America. The trauma and existential questioning following the war led many artists to explore personal identity and emotional authenticity through their work. This movement allowed artists to respond to a rapidly changing society by expressing feelings of anxiety, alienation, and hope, capturing the complexity of human experience during a time of both upheaval and innovation.

Related terms

Action Painting: A style within abstract expressionism that emphasizes the physical act of painting, where the artist's movements and gestures are integral to the artwork.

Color Field Painting: Another style of abstract expressionism that focuses on large areas of color and simplified forms to evoke emotional responses.

Surrealism: An art movement that sought to unlock the creative potential of the unconscious mind, influencing abstract expressionists with its emphasis on dream imagery and spontaneous creation.