Clement Greenberg

Definition

Clement Greenberg was a prominent American art critic known for his influential role in defining and promoting Modernist art, particularly Abstract Expressionism. He championed the idea that art should focus on its medium, emphasizing the importance of flatness and color in painting. Greenberg's theories shaped the cultural landscape of the mid-20th century, impacting both artists and critics alike.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Greenberg was instrumental in elevating the status of Abstract Expressionism, arguing that it represented a culmination of artistic development in Western art.
2. He believed that the essence of painting lies in its physical properties, advocating for an appreciation of flatness as a fundamental characteristic.
3. Greenberg's essay 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch' (1939) distinguished between high culture and mass culture, criticizing the commercialization of art.
4. He strongly supported artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, helping to establish their reputations in the art world.
5. Greenberg's ideas contributed to the emergence of post-painterly abstraction, influencing subsequent generations of artists and critics.

Review Questions

• How did Clement Greenberg's ideas about formalism influence the way Abstract Expressionism was perceived during its rise?
  • Clement Greenberg's emphasis on formalism significantly shaped the perception of Abstract Expressionism by focusing attention on the visual qualities of painting. He argued that Abstract Expressionist artists were breaking away from representational forms to explore color and flatness as essential elements. This perspective elevated Abstract Expressionism within the hierarchy of modern art, allowing it to be seen as a serious and innovative movement that pushed the boundaries of traditional painting.
• In what ways did Greenberg's critique in 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch' reflect his views on the role of art in society?
  • In 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch,' Greenberg articulated his belief that genuine art must maintain a level of seriousness and depth, contrasting it with what he saw as kitsch—a superficial, mass-produced form lacking intellectual engagement. This critique reflected his view that art should serve as a means of cultural advancement rather than mere entertainment. By distinguishing between high culture and kitsch, Greenberg aimed to protect the integrity of avant-garde movements like Abstract Expressionism against commercialization.
• Evaluate how Clement Greenberg's advocacy for certain artists affected their careers and the broader landscape of modern art.
  • Clement Greenberg's advocacy played a crucial role in shaping the careers of key figures in Abstract Expressionism such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko. His promotion helped elevate their works to critical acclaim, establishing them as significant contributors to modern art. This not only boosted their careers but also influenced the broader landscape by creating a new standard for artistic excellence. Greenberg's critical framework encouraged future artists to explore abstraction, leading to new movements like post-painterly abstraction and continuing to challenge artistic conventions.

Related terms

Formalism: An approach to art criticism that emphasizes the visual elements of a work—such as line, shape, color, and texture—over contextual or narrative aspects.

Abstract Expressionism:

An art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by spontaneous, gestural brushwork and a focus on emotional expression.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasizing new forms of artistic expression that rejected traditional styles and techniques.