Abstract Expressionism

Definition

Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by a focus on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. This style emphasizes the act of painting itself as an essential aspect of the artwork, often resulting in large canvases filled with expressive colors, dynamic forms, and gestural brushstrokes. It reflects broader cultural shifts, highlighting the search for individuality and emotional depth in post-World War II society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abstract Expressionism was heavily influenced by European modernist movements such as Surrealism and Cubism, merging these ideas with American culture.
2. Key figures include artists like Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning, each contributing uniquely to the movement’s diverse styles.
3. The movement gained prominence after World War II, as artists sought to express their feelings about chaos and existential angst through their work.
4. New York City became the epicenter of Abstract Expressionism, symbolizing a shift in the art world from Europe to America during this time.
5. Critics often viewed Abstract Expressionism as a reflection of the American spirit, capturing the sense of freedom and individuality that characterized post-war society.

Review Questions

• How did Abstract Expressionism reflect the cultural changes in America during the post-World War II era?
  • Abstract Expressionism emerged as artists sought to express their feelings about the chaos and uncertainty of post-World War II America. The movement's emphasis on spontaneity and individual expression mirrored a society grappling with identity and emotional depth in response to global conflicts. As artists created works filled with energetic colors and forms, they captured a sense of freedom that resonated with broader cultural shifts towards self-expression and personal narrative.
• Discuss how Action Painting differs from Color Field Painting within the Abstract Expressionist movement.
  • Action Painting focuses on the physical act of creating art, often characterized by dynamic brushstrokes and an emphasis on the artist's gestures. In contrast, Color Field Painting prioritizes the use of large swathes of color to evoke emotional responses without relying on form or representation. While both styles are part of Abstract Expressionism, Action Painting is more about movement and energy, whereas Color Field Painting seeks harmony and depth through color alone.
• Evaluate the significance of Abstract Expressionism in reshaping the global art scene and its legacy today.
  • Abstract Expressionism played a crucial role in shifting the center of the art world from Europe to America after World War II. This movement not only defined modern American art but also influenced countless artists globally, promoting individual expression and experimentation across various mediums. Its legacy continues today as contemporary artists draw inspiration from its principles of spontaneity and emotional depth, demonstrating its lasting impact on artistic practices and the ongoing evolution of abstract art.

Related terms

Action Painting: A technique within Abstract Expressionism where the physical act of painting is emphasized, often involving vigorous brushwork and spontaneous application of paint.

Color Field Painting: A style associated with Abstract Expressionism that focuses on large areas of color to create a sense of depth and emotional resonance without representational forms.

Gestural Abstraction: An approach to Abstract Expressionism that emphasizes the gesture of the artist's hand in the act of painting, making the process visible and integral to the artwork.