9th Street Show

Definition

The 9th Street Show was an influential art exhibition held in 1951 in New York City that showcased a group of artists who would become central to the Abstract Expressionism movement. This event marked a significant moment in art history, as it brought together diverse styles and individual approaches to painting, helping to define the New York School's identity. The show is often credited with fostering a sense of community among artists and encouraging innovative expressions of personal experience through abstraction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 9th Street Show was organized by artists like Allan Kaprow, Jasper Johns, and Robert Rauschenberg, reflecting a collaborative spirit among the participants.
2. The exhibition was held in a loft space at 60 E. 9th Street in Manhattan, which provided an informal and accessible venue for presenting contemporary art.
3. Notable works included pieces by abstract artists such as Willem de Kooning and Franz Kline, showcasing a variety of techniques and approaches to abstraction.
4. The show attracted significant attention from both critics and collectors, solidifying New York's status as a center for avant-garde art in the post-war era.
5. The 9th Street Show is often seen as a precursor to later movements and exhibitions that further defined American art in the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did the 9th Street Show contribute to the emergence of Abstract Expressionism?
  • The 9th Street Show played a crucial role in the emergence of Abstract Expressionism by gathering various artists who were experimenting with abstraction in their own ways. It provided a platform for these artists to share their innovative approaches and ideas, fostering a sense of community that encouraged collaboration and artistic exchange. The exhibition showcased key figures in the movement, helping to establish New York as the leading center for contemporary art at that time.
• Discuss the impact of location on the success of the 9th Street Show and its artists.
  • The location of the 9th Street Show at a loft space in Manhattan significantly contributed to its success by offering an informal environment that contrasted sharply with traditional gallery settings. This accessibility allowed for a broader audience to engage with the artwork, which enhanced visibility for participating artists. The setting also facilitated interaction among artists and attendees, creating a vibrant atmosphere that encouraged dialogue about new ideas and artistic directions within the emerging Abstract Expressionism movement.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the 9th Street Show on future artistic movements and exhibitions.
  • The long-term significance of the 9th Street Show lies in its role as a catalyst for future artistic movements and exhibitions that shaped contemporary art. By highlighting diverse forms of abstraction and promoting collaboration among artists, it set a precedent for subsequent shows that embraced innovation and challenged established norms. The exhibition helped pave the way for movements like Minimalism and Pop Art, demonstrating how collective efforts can redefine art's trajectory and influence generations of artists who followed.

Related terms

Abstract Expressionism:

A post-World War II art movement characterized by gestural brush-strokes and an emphasis on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation.

New York School:

A group of mid-20th century artists based in New York who were known for their abstract work and whose practices laid the groundwork for Abstract Expressionism.

Artistic Collaboration: The practice of artists working together or influencing one another, which was a significant aspect of the 9th Street Show and the broader New York art scene.