The New American Painting

Definition

The New American Painting refers to a movement that emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, characterized by its emphasis on abstraction and expression through the act of painting itself. This movement is closely associated with styles like action painting and gestural abstraction, which prioritize spontaneous brushwork and the physicality of paint. The influence of European movements, as well as the rise of art criticism and journals during this period, helped shape and promote this distinct artistic identity, contributing to the global recognition of American art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New American Painting emerged prominently in the 1940s and 1950s, coinciding with the rise of Abstract Expressionism as a major art movement.
2. Artists associated with this movement often utilized techniques such as drip painting and action painting to convey emotion and energy through their work.
3. Major figures in The New American Painting included Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko, who each had unique approaches to abstraction.
4. Art criticism during this time helped to elevate the status of American artists on the international stage, fostering a dialogue about their work through various journals and publications.
5. The movement not only influenced visual arts but also left a significant mark on related fields such as performance art and installation art.

Review Questions

• How did the techniques used in The New American Painting differ from traditional painting methods?
  • The New American Painting shifted away from traditional painting techniques that focused on representation and realism. Instead, artists embraced methods like action painting, which involved dynamic brush strokes and an emphasis on the physical process of painting. This approach allowed for more spontaneous expressions of emotion and experience, marking a departure from meticulous planning and technique seen in earlier styles. As a result, the act of painting itself became a crucial part of the artwork's meaning.
• In what ways did The New American Painting influence or relate to British Pop Art?
  • While The New American Painting focused on abstraction and individual expression, British Pop Art emerged as a response to consumer culture, employing imagery from mass media and popular culture. The two movements represent different aspects of contemporary art but share a common ground in their break from tradition. Both movements were reactions to societal changes following World War II; however, where American artists sought to convey personal experience through abstraction, British artists aimed to comment on consumerism through figurative imagery. The cross-cultural dialogue between these movements further enriched the global art scene.
• Evaluate how art criticism contributed to the acceptance and understanding of The New American Painting during its emergence.
  • Art criticism played a pivotal role in legitimizing The New American Painting by framing it within broader cultural conversations about modernity and abstraction. Critics began to recognize the innovative approaches taken by artists like Pollock and Rothko, often publishing reviews that highlighted the emotional depth and revolutionary nature of their work. Journals such as 'Artforum' became platforms for discussing these artists' contributions, helping audiences understand their significance within the context of contemporary art. This dialogue not only fostered appreciation but also established an intellectual foundation for future generations of artists and critics alike.

Related terms

Abstract Expressionism: A post-World War II art movement in American painting that emphasized spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, characterized by large canvases and dynamic forms.

Color Field Painting: A style of abstract painting that emerged in the 1950s, focusing on large areas of color and an emphasis on simplicity and clarity of form.

Art Criticism: The analysis and evaluation of art, often published in journals or magazines, which plays a key role in shaping public perception and appreciation of contemporary art movements.