Rise of abstract expressionism

Definition

The rise of abstract expressionism refers to the movement in the mid-20th century that emphasized spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, becoming a dominant style in American art and influencing various forms of creative expression, including dance. It marked a shift from representational art to an emphasis on individual expression and emotional intensity, leading to new ways of thinking about movement and performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of abstract expressionism took place primarily in New York City in the 1940s and 1950s, positioning it as a significant movement in American art history.
2. Artists associated with this movement sought to create works that expressed their inner feelings and emotions rather than depicting external realities.
3. The movement was influenced by earlier styles such as surrealism, which emphasized subconscious creativity and the exploration of the psyche.
4. Notable figures like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko used innovative techniques that prioritized the act of creation itself, transforming how art was perceived and experienced.
5. The principles of abstract expressionism have permeated other art forms, including dance, encouraging choreographers to explore improvisation and personal expression in their work.

Review Questions

• How did the rise of abstract expressionism influence modern dance during its emergence?
  • The rise of abstract expressionism greatly influenced modern dance by encouraging choreographers to embrace improvisation and focus on individual expression. Just as painters like Pollock emphasized spontaneous creation, dancers began to explore the physicality of movement without strict adherence to form or narrative. This allowed for greater emotional depth and personal interpretation within dance performances.
• In what ways did the principles of abstract expressionism challenge traditional notions of art and performance?
  • The principles of abstract expressionism challenged traditional notions by prioritizing the process of creation over the final product. Artists moved away from representational forms and focused on expressing raw emotions and ideas through abstraction. In performance art and dance, this meant breaking free from structured choreography to embrace freedom of movement, allowing performers to convey deeper feelings through their bodies without being tied to specific narratives or forms.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of abstract expressionism on contemporary artistic practices across various disciplines.
  • The lasting impact of abstract expressionism is evident in contemporary artistic practices that prioritize individual voice and emotional authenticity across multiple disciplines. It has paved the way for movements such as performance art, where personal experiences are integral to the work. In dance, choreographers continue to incorporate improvisational techniques and abstract concepts that encourage dancers to connect more deeply with their emotions. This legacy of valuing personal expression has shaped not only visual arts but also music, theater, and dance, fostering a culture where experimentation is celebrated.

Related terms

Action Painting: A technique within abstract expressionism where paint is spontaneously dribbled, splashed, or smeared onto the canvas, emphasizing the physical act of painting as part of the artwork.

Non-objective Art: Art that does not depict recognizable objects or subjects, focusing instead on colors, shapes, and forms to express emotions and ideas.

Gestural Abstraction: A style within abstract expressionism characterized by expressive brush strokes and gestures, conveying the artist's emotions and physical movements.