Abstract expressionism

Definition

Abstract expressionism is an influential art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily in New York City, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. This movement focuses on expressing emotions and ideas through abstract forms and bold colors rather than depicting recognizable subjects, marking a departure from traditional artistic conventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract expressionism emerged in the 1940s as artists sought to express their inner emotions through spontaneous and non-representational forms.
2. Notable artists associated with abstract expressionism include Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning, each contributing their unique approach to the movement.
3. The movement was heavily influenced by surrealism, particularly the idea of tapping into the unconscious mind to create art.
4. Abstract expressionism played a crucial role in shifting the center of the art world from Europe to the United States after World War II.
5. The style is often characterized by its emphasis on individual creativity and the importance of process over product in art-making.

Review Questions

• How did abstract expressionism reflect the cultural and social changes occurring in post-World War II America?
  • Abstract expressionism emerged as a reaction to the trauma and dislocation caused by World War II. It reflected a sense of freedom and individuality that resonated with a society looking to redefine itself after conflict. The movement emphasized personal expression and emotional depth, which paralleled America's evolving cultural landscape, as artists sought to break free from traditional norms and embrace new forms of creativity that mirrored the complexities of contemporary life.
• Compare and contrast action painting and color field painting within the abstract expressionist movement.
  • Action painting and color field painting are two distinct styles within abstract expressionism. Action painting focuses on the physical act of painting, emphasizing dynamic brush strokes and movement, exemplified by artists like Jackson Pollock. In contrast, color field painting prioritizes large expanses of color that evoke emotional responses without relying on intricate details or textures, represented by artists like Mark Rothko. Both styles share an emotional intensity but differ in their approach to composition and technique.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of abstract expressionism on contemporary art movements and practices.
  • Abstract expressionism has had a profound influence on contemporary art, paving the way for various movements such as minimalism, pop art, and conceptual art. Its emphasis on individual expression, spontaneity, and process has encouraged artists to explore new materials and techniques beyond traditional boundaries. The movement's legacy is evident in today's art scene, where diverse styles continue to reflect personal experiences and cultural narratives, demonstrating how abstract expressionism reshaped artistic practices and inspired future generations.

Related terms

Action painting: A style within abstract expressionism that emphasizes the physical act of painting, where artists use dynamic brush strokes and techniques like dripping or pouring paint onto the canvas.

Color field painting: A subset of abstract expressionism that focuses on large areas of solid color to create a sense of depth and emotional resonance, often using simple shapes and minimalistic designs.

New York School: A group of artists, including many abstract expressionists, who were based in New York City in the 1940s and 1950s, contributing significantly to the development of modern art during this period.