Suprematism

Definition

Suprematism is an art movement founded by Kazimir Malevich in the early 20th century, emphasizing basic geometric forms, particularly squares and circles, and a limited color palette. It represents a radical departure from traditional artistic representations, focusing instead on pure abstraction and the supremacy of artistic feeling over the depiction of objects. This movement aimed to express the essential nature of reality through non-objective forms, influencing various Modernist movements that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Suprematism emerged around 1913 and was formally articulated in Malevich's 1915 work 'Black Square,' which showcased his idea of reducing art to its most fundamental elements.
2. The movement sought to liberate art from the confines of representation, asserting that non-objective forms could convey deeper truths and emotional experiences.
3. Suprematist works often feature geometric shapes arranged in dynamic compositions, reflecting Malevich's belief in the power of color and form to evoke sensation.
4. Suprematism had a significant impact on later avant-garde movements, influencing artists who experimented with abstraction and sought to push the boundaries of visual expression.
5. The philosophy of Suprematism extended beyond painting to architecture, design, and graphic arts, advocating for an integrated approach to art that embraced modernity.

Review Questions

• How did Suprematism differentiate itself from previous artistic movements in terms of representation and form?
  • Suprematism set itself apart from previous movements by rejecting traditional forms of representation in favor of pure abstraction. Kazimir Malevich emphasized basic geometric shapes like squares and circles, focusing on the essence of reality rather than depicting objects or figures. This shift towards non-objective art allowed artists to explore emotions and sensations through color and form without being tied to recognizable subjects.
• In what ways did Suprematism influence later Modernist movements such as Constructivism and Abstract Expressionism?
  • Suprematism's emphasis on abstraction paved the way for later movements like Constructivism and Abstract Expressionism by encouraging artists to explore new forms of expression. Constructivists took Suprematist ideas into social realms, using art for political purposes and community engagement. Meanwhile, Abstract Expressionists built on the emotional depth found in Suprematist works, focusing on spontaneous creation and personal expression in their own abstract compositions.
• Evaluate the impact of Suprematism on contemporary art practices and how its principles can still be observed today.
  • The impact of Suprematism on contemporary art practices is profound, as its principles continue to resonate in various forms of modern abstract art. Artists today often embrace non-representational techniques that echo Malevich's ideas about the supremacy of artistic feeling. Moreover, the exploration of geometry, color theory, and emotional expression within non-objective frameworks remains relevant in contemporary works across diverse mediums—from painting to installation art—showcasing how Suprematism's legacy endures in pushing boundaries within the art world.

Related terms

Constructivism: A Russian art movement that emerged after Suprematism, focusing on art as a practice for social purposes and the integration of art into everyday life.

Abstract Expressionism: A post-World War II art movement that emphasized spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, often seen as a continuation of Suprematist ideas.

De Stijl: An art movement founded in the Netherlands that promoted pure abstraction and universality through a reduction to the essentials of form and color, influenced by Suprematism.