New image painting

Definition

New image painting refers to an art movement that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, characterized by a return to figurative representation while embracing contemporary themes and techniques. This movement sought to challenge the dominance of abstraction in postwar art, incorporating elements from various sources like photography and popular culture, resulting in vibrant and often ironic imagery that reflects the complexities of modern life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New image painting was a reaction against the dominance of abstract expressionism and minimalism, seeking to reintroduce narrative and figuration into contemporary art.
2. Artists associated with new image painting often employed unconventional materials and techniques, blending paint with photographs or using mixed media.
3. The movement was influenced by the rise of mass media and consumer culture, with many works reflecting themes of identity, commodification, and representation.
4. Notable artists linked to new image painting include David Salle, Julian Schnabel, and Eric Fischl, each bringing their unique perspective to the movement's themes.
5. The style often features bright colors, dynamic compositions, and a layering of images that create a sense of depth and complexity in the artwork.

Review Questions

• How does new image painting reflect a shift in artistic practice compared to previous movements like abstract expressionism?
  • New image painting marks a significant shift from abstract expressionism by reintroducing recognizable imagery and narrative elements into contemporary art. While abstract expressionism focused on emotional expression through non-representational forms, new image painting embraces figuration and storytelling. This change reflects a broader cultural context where artists sought to engage with modern life, popular culture, and personal identity.
• Discuss how new image painting incorporates elements from photography and popular culture in its works.
  • New image painting incorporates photography and elements of popular culture by blending traditional painting techniques with imagery sourced from advertisements, magazines, or personal photographs. This fusion allows artists to comment on the relationship between fine art and mass media while challenging the viewer's perception of reality. By using familiar images from everyday life, these artists create works that are both visually striking and laden with cultural significance.
• Evaluate the impact of new image painting on the discourse surrounding figuration in contemporary art.
  • New image painting has significantly impacted the discourse surrounding figuration by legitimizing its role in contemporary art at a time when abstraction was predominant. By embracing figurative representation, artists within this movement expanded the definition of what constitutes contemporary art. They challenged prevailing ideas about narrative and representation while engaging with social issues such as identity politics and consumer culture. This reevaluation has led to a resurgence of interest in figurative practices across various artistic disciplines.

Related terms

Neo-Expressionism: An art movement that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, emphasizing emotional intensity and bold colors, often incorporating figures and narratives.

Postmodernism: A broad movement in art, architecture, and literature that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by a skeptical approach to grand narratives and an embrace of diverse styles and media.

Figuration: The use of recognizable figures or forms in art, contrasting with abstraction, and often reflecting social, political, or personal themes.