The 9th street show

Definition

The 9th Street Show was a groundbreaking art exhibition held in New York City in 1951, showcasing a collection of emerging artists who would later become significant figures in the Abstract Expressionist movement. This exhibition was notable for its informal setting and the inclusion of works that emphasized personal expression and experimentation, reflecting the changing landscape of American art at the time. It played a key role in establishing a new artistic community and promoting a shift away from traditional forms and techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 9th Street Show featured over 100 works from about 40 artists, including notable figures like Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline, and Jackson Pollock.
2. The exhibition was held in a converted garage on 9th Street in New York's Greenwich Village, emphasizing the informal and avant-garde nature of the event.
3. Unlike traditional exhibitions, the 9th Street Show allowed artists to display their work without the constraints of gallery representation or commercial expectations.
4. The success of the 9th Street Show helped to solidify New York City as a major center for contemporary art, paving the way for future exhibitions and movements.
5. This exhibition is often credited with fostering collaboration among artists and contributing to the rise of Abstract Expressionism as a dominant art movement in America.

Review Questions

• How did the 9th Street Show influence the direction of American art in the early 1950s?
  • The 9th Street Show significantly influenced American art by showcasing a diverse group of emerging artists who embraced new forms of expression and techniques. This exhibition highlighted the shift towards Abstract Expressionism, which prioritized personal emotion and spontaneity over traditional artistic methods. By providing a platform for these artists to exhibit their work informally, it encouraged experimentation and collaboration, ultimately reshaping the landscape of American art.
• Discuss the importance of location and setting for the 9th Street Show and how it impacted artist participation.
  • The location of the 9th Street Show in a converted garage in Greenwich Village played a crucial role in its success by creating an accessible and informal atmosphere that contrasted with traditional gallery settings. This unconventional space allowed artists to feel free from commercial pressures and to showcase their work without restrictions. The unique setting fostered a sense of community among participants, encouraging collaboration and dialogue between artists, which was vital for the development of innovative styles during that period.
• Evaluate how the 9th Street Show contributed to the establishment of Abstract Expressionism as a leading art movement in America.
  • The 9th Street Show was pivotal in establishing Abstract Expressionism by bringing together influential artists who would shape this movement's trajectory. By showcasing their works in an environment that celebrated spontaneity and personal expression, the exhibition challenged existing norms within the art world. The sense of community fostered at this event led to collaborations and mutual influences among artists, ultimately solidifying Abstract Expressionism's place as a dominant force in American art history during the mid-20th century.

Related terms

Abstract Expressionism:

An art movement characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, emphasizing emotional intensity and the act of painting as an integral part of the artwork.

Greenwich Village: A neighborhood in New York City known for its bohemian culture and as a hub for artists and intellectuals, playing a significant role in the development of modern art movements.

Artistic Community: A group of artists who come together to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another, often leading to innovative movements and styles in art.