Harold Rosenberg

Definition

Harold Rosenberg was an influential American art critic known for his role in shaping the discourse around Abstract Expressionism. He introduced the concept of 'the action painting,' emphasizing the importance of the artist's creative process and the physical act of painting itself. Rosenberg's views helped define the New York School and his critical writings became instrumental in establishing the careers of many artists within this movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rosenberg's 1952 essay 'The American Action Painters' introduced the term 'action painting,' highlighting how the creative process is integral to the artwork.
2. He was one of the first critics to focus on the significance of individual artistic expression and the psychological aspects of creation.
3. Rosenberg's writings often contrasted with those of other critics, such as Clement Greenberg, who focused more on formalist analysis.
4. He believed that art should reflect personal experience and authenticity, which resonated with many Abstract Expressionist artists.
5. Rosenberg's influence extended beyond art criticism; he also contributed to discussions in literature and philosophy, reflecting on culture's broader implications.

Review Questions

• How did Harold Rosenberg's concept of 'action painting' impact the understanding of Abstract Expressionism?
  • Harold Rosenberg's concept of 'action painting' significantly impacted how Abstract Expressionism was understood by emphasizing the process of creation rather than just the final artwork. By focusing on the artist's physical engagement with their work, Rosenberg shifted attention to the emotional and psychological dimensions involved in painting. This perspective allowed critics and audiences alike to appreciate not only the aesthetic qualities but also the unique experiences that each artist brought to their practice, thereby enriching the dialogue around Abstract Expressionism.
• In what ways did Rosenberg's writings differ from those of his contemporaries like Clement Greenberg?
  • Harold Rosenberg's writings differed from those of Clement Greenberg primarily in their emphasis on individual expression versus formal analysis. While Greenberg focused on aesthetic qualities and the purity of medium in art, Rosenberg highlighted the importance of the artist's emotional and psychological experience in their work. This contrast shaped debates within art criticism during their time, as Rosenberg’s approach celebrated spontaneity and personal narrative, while Greenberg’s reinforced a more structured understanding of modernist art.
• Evaluate Harold Rosenberg's overall contribution to art criticism and its influence on the art market during the rise of Abstract Expressionism.
  • Harold Rosenberg made significant contributions to art criticism by redefining how audiences perceived both artists and their creative processes. His focus on 'action painting' and personal expression influenced not only public appreciation but also how artists marketed themselves in a rapidly evolving art market. By promoting an understanding that valued emotional authenticity over formal adherence, Rosenberg helped elevate many artists' profiles, paving the way for a new era where individuality became a key selling point. This shift ultimately shaped not just artistic production but also broader trends within galleries and exhibitions that sought to highlight unique personal narratives.

Related terms

Action Painting: A style of painting characterized by spontaneous, dynamic brushwork that emphasizes the act of painting as a part of the artwork itself.

Abstract Expressionism: An art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by non-representational forms and a focus on emotional expression through abstract forms.

New York School: A group of American painters, poets, and critics who were central to the development of Abstract Expressionism in New York City during the mid-20th century.